The Roofing Underlayment: Why Is It Important?

Your roofing system has different components that support each other to preserve the structural integrity of your home and provide protection against the elements. As a homeowner, you must ensure the roof's longevity and performance, so it's essential to understand the functions of its basic parts. This way, you can detect issues early and have a reputable contractor perform the necessary roof leak repair work.

One of the vital components of your roofing system is the underlayment, which lies underneath the shingles. Read on to learn about its importance:

Weather Barrier

The roof covering—asphalt shingles, metal panels or tiles—is your home's first line of defense against the elements. However, ongoing wear and tear can cause it to sustain cracks, punctures or wind damage. When this happens, the next layer, which is the underlayment, acts as the secondary barrier. It keeps excessive moisture from penetrating the roof decking, preventing issues, such as mold growth and leaks.

Defense Against Condensation

In roof replacement projects, roofing contractors make sure to minimize or prevent condensation that can form on the roof's underside. Combined with proper ventilation, the installation of the underlayment ensures that the roof won't accumulate moisture that may soak into the roofing materials and make them susceptible to mold and rot.

Fire Resistance

Most roofing underlayment products, especially the rubberized asphalt or non-bitumen synthetic types, aren't just known for having superior weather resistance. They—re also fire-resistant, which can help reduce the spread and penetration of fires. Homes built in heavily populated areas or near forests can benefit from this. Roofing underlayment comes in different fire resistance ratings, so choosing Class A-rated products is imperative.

At Henderson Roofing, we offer comprehensive roof replacement and repair services and scheduled maintenance plans. As a GAF Master Elite contractor, you can be sure that your new roof is complete with the best components to suit your needs, including the underlayment. Call us today at (401) 615-2224 or (860) 415-4055 to get started. You can also fill out our contact form to request an estimate.