The Application of Roofing Underlayment in New Roof Installation

When it comes to shingle roofing installations, roofing underlayment is a crucial component of roofing systems, especially for coastal states like Delaware. This is because these areas are prone to high winds, heavy rain, and even hurricanes, which can cause significant damage to roofs. Underlayment provides an extra layer of protection against these elements, serving as a barrier between the roof deck and the shingles or other roofing materials.

Underlayment helps to prevent water intrusion, which can lead to mold, rot, and other forms of damage. It also helps to prevent wind-driven rain from penetrating the roof, which can cause leaks and other issues. Additionally, underlayment can provide a degree of thermal insulation, helping to regulate the temperature in the attic space and reduce energy costs.

In Delaware, where coastal storms are a common occurrence, having a high-quality roofing underlayment is essential for protecting homes and other structures. Without it, roofs are vulnerable to damage from wind, rain, and other environmental factors, which can result in costly repairs and even total roof replacement. Therefore, it is crucial for homeowners and contractors alike to prioritize the use of high-quality underlayment in their roofing systems.

New Roof Installations: The Application of Roofing Underlayment

Comparing The Two Types of Roofing Underlayment

Underlayment is just a fancy term for the layer of sub-roofing material that is put on the structure of your home before the roofing materials, i.e. shingles, shakes, tiles, are laid. The underlayment creates an added barrier to protect the roof structure from moisture, and in some cases, fire. Both water and fire damage can lead to unsightly destruction of your roof and costly repairs to the exterior and interior of your home.

The two most common types of underlayment used in roofing today are FELT and SYNTHETIC, both materials having specific advantages and drawbacks.

Felt paper is the most commonly used underlayment with new roof installations. The main advantage of using felt paper is that it’s an inexpensive option. However, felt paper cannot be left exposed to the elements for very long before it wrinkles and traps condensation between the roof structure and the backside of the paper.

More costly underlayments include a variety of synthetics such as:

• Fiberglass
• Polyester
• Polypropylene

These roofing materials protect against water damage but are also tear- and heat-resistant. Some synthetic underlayments can be left open to the elements for up to six months, in case your roof installation is delayed for any reason.

Proper Roofing Underlayment Installation Is Key

The installation process of roofing underlayment is critical to ensure that it provides effective protection against environmental factors. The first step is to clean the roof deck thoroughly by removing any debris, nails, or other obstructions that could potentially damage the underlayment. It is essential to ensure that the roof deck is completely dry before proceeding with the installation process.

Once the roof deck is clean and dry, the underlayment can be installed. The underlayment is typically rolled out horizontally along the roof deck, with each subsequent row overlapping the previous row by at least six inches. The underlayment is then secured to the roof deck using fasteners such as nails or staples.

It is crucial to ensure that the underlayment is installed tightly and securely, with no gaps or wrinkles that could allow moisture to penetrate the roofing system. Additionally, any penetrations in the underlayment, such as around vents or chimneys, must be carefully sealed to prevent water intrusion.

Overall, a proper installation of roofing underlayment is essential to ensure its effectiveness in protecting a roof from environmental damage.

Replacing Your Roof? Always Hire Professional Contractors

Roofing replacement is a costly project you want to be done right the first time, so finding a skilled contractor at a fair price should be your top priority!

If you’re looking for a contractor with shingle roofing installation expertise, consider All Roofing Solutions. We are a family-owned & operated roofing contractor with 25 years of experience in roofing, siding, gutter, and windows installation. Fully licensed & insured, we service Delaware and neighboring Pennsylvania counties.

Backed by our expertise, we offer a 30-year workmanship guarantee and a complimentary extended material warranty on all of our full roof replacements!

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania.

We offer Free Estimates and honest service, never take shortcuts, and ensure every step is done right!

Why Choose All Roofing Solutions

• Family-owned and operated Delaware & Pennsylvania roofing contractor.
• Fully licensed and insured.
• Over 20 years of experience with roofing & siding installation and repair.
• A+ rated BBB member
• Complimentary Extended Material warranty
• 30-year workmanship guarantee on full roof replacements
• Lien Waiver to protect the homeowners from material liens
• Own crew—no subcontractors!
• Full-service roofer handling all types of residential and commercial roofing, windows & siding projects.
• Most re-roofing projects are completed in one day.
• Because we are efficient we are able to offer very competitive prices compared to large contractors with bigger overhead.
• Each roofing/siding project includes a meticulously performed, post-roofing inspection. We want to make sure that your roof replacement is done correctly and that it meets your complete satisfaction.
• The company owner supervises all projects to ensure high-quality workmanship.
• Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed!