Roof Underlayment - Tar Paper
Roof underlayment, also known as roofing felt or tar paper, provides a protective layer between shingles and the wood structure of a roof. While there has been reasonable debate about the need for nailing the underlayment to the roof, it is a good idea to secure it as well as possible. This may help to reduce the possibility of leaks, along with promoting a longer life for your roof. Before beginning to secure roof underlayment, it's important to make sure that the roof sheathing has been attached properly.
Builder's Felt - Most Commonly Used As Roof Underlayment
Builder's felt, also known as tar paper, is the material commonly used for roofing underlayment. It can be purchased in rolls and its thickness is gauged in pounds.
If you plan to do the job yourself, it will be both easier and quicker if you have someone to help. Before you begin, sweep the roof of any debris and check for nails. Once you unroll the felt, situate the roll flush with the gable end. Begin working toward the far end or valley and square it with the edges of your roof while pressing out any wrinkles. Always weave underlayment across valleys while double lapping underlayment across ridges. This applies unless there is a continuous ridge vent. Nail the felt into place and proceed at regular intervals to the far end. When you come to a valley, cut the felt so that it is angled to lie down the middle of the valley. Continue working on the second row by overlapping, above the first row, by 2 inches. If you encounter pipes or other object along the way, make a cut in the felt around that object and continue with your work. Once you have made your way up the roof, begin work on the other side. When complete, secure the felt into place. Once you have placed the underlayment on your roof, it's important to complete the roofing process as quickly as possible. Exposure to rain may cause the felt to wrinkle or, in case of extreme wind, possibly even tear.
Synthetic Roof Underlayment
Synthetic underlayment is lightweight, as much as five times lighter than felt. Some of the advantages to synthetic roof underlayment include its ability to resist tearing and wrinkles. In addition, it can be skid and UV resistant, along with its ability to resist insect damage, rotting and algae. Synthetic roofing underlayment is easy to cut and provides for quicker installation.
Doing work on the roof can be dangerous. There is always the possibility of a fall, which is increased with the presence of rain. If your roof is wet, do not attempt to continue with your home improvement until it has dried. Cover the unfinished portion with a tarp, or plastic, and wait for appropriate weather. If you have a fear of heights, or working on the roof in general, call a professional contractor. They will be able to discuss all options for roof underlayment, including various materials and the best construction for your area. Individuals experience harsh winters, hurricanes or other inclement weather may benefit from the expertise and guidance of a professional roofing contractor.
October, 2005
Copyright 2005 Roofer 911.com. All Rights Reserved
by Steven Briesemeister. Reprinted courtesy of Roofer 911.com, roofing contractor serving Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, NY and northern Virginia.