What Every Homeowner Should Consider When Picking The Best Roof Underlayment
Finding the best roof underlayment for your home isn’t always easy. There are many options available on the market right now, and without the right know-how, it will be almost impossible for you to choose. This is why it’s important to do your research on the best roof underlayment before you make your final choices.
Understanding Roofing Underlayment
It’s easy to go into things thinking that you understand based on the name. But, it’s better to have a deeper and more thorough understanding of what exactly roof underlayment is. This will help shape your potential underlayment choices.
Roof underlayment is a layer located between your roof covering and your roof decking. It forms a vital barrier on your roof that protects your home from water and helps better insulate your home against external weather factors. There are different types of underlayment, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses.
Types of roof underlayment include:
- Asphalt-saturated underlayment: This is usually comprised of thick paper like material soak in asphalt, and other chemical compounds. It is more commonly referred to as felt or tar paper. While readily available and cost-effective, asphalt underlayment is organic and more prone to decay. It also can be hazardous for roofing contractors during the installation process.
- Rubberized of Modified Underlayment: This is an underlayment material comprised of rubberized particles and an even level of asphalt mixed with it. It can be a more cost-efficient underlayment material and durable.
- Synthetic Underlayment: Non-Bitumen or synthetic underlayment is comprised of plastics such as polyethylene or polypropylene. They are a versatile choice when it comes to underlayment as it does a decent job of waterproofing your roof, and it is known as a durable material, yet is only “water resistant”.
Pro Tip: Understanding common roofing terms will help you better understand your roof. You can do more in-depth research or speak with your local roofing contractor for more information.
Finding The Best Roof Underlayment for Your Home
Before deciding on your residential underlayment material. There are a few things that you will need to take into consideration.
- The type of roofing system
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Keep in mind that certain underlayment materials work best with certain roofing systems. Consult with your local roofing contractor to find out what best suits your current roofing system. You will also need to decide if you would like to repair or replace your existing roofing system. In the case of new builds, speak with your contractor to find out what best suits all your needs.
- The existing condition of your roof deck
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Your roof deck or roofing sheath is located directly above your roof’s framing. It’s comprised of plywood of a specific width, which helps secure your roof in place. The deck is also the foundation to which your underlayment and other roofing materials adhere. If your deck is not in good condition, you will need to replace broken or rotting decking. This will enable your underlayment to sit flush against the deck, providing your home with a waterproof barrier that also insulates against adverse weather conditions.
- The pitch of your roof
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Homes in Florida are either low slope (low pitch) or steep slope (high pitch). This refers to the slant of the roof. Both high and low-slope roofing have their own advantages and disadvantages, but the type of roofing slope will also impact the type of underlayment that can be safely installed on your roof.
- How will the underlayment be installed?
Different underlayment materials have different installation processes. Some of these installations can not only be hazardous but also time-consuming. Any mistakes can result in massive delays or even injuries to contractors handling the installation. The best roof underlayment is one that doesn’t put your roofing contractor at risk while also making the installation process time-efficient.
- The density of the materials involved
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The thickness of the underlayment can differ depending on the materials used. Having a thicker underlayment can mean additional protection. However, depending on the materials used, a thicker underlayment may have a longer drying time. This inefficiency can cause labor and other related costs to rise as you wait for your roof to be completed.
The best thing you can do is discuss your underlayment options with your licensed and professional roofing contractor. A reputable contractor will be able to advise you on the type of underlayment best suited to your specific roof and your specific budget.
What Sets Tag & Stick Apart from Other Underlayment Materials
Tag & Stick is the best roof underlayment available on the market. It is not only a South Florida code-approved self-adhered modified underlayment, but also a safe solution for homeowners and property managers across the board.
Providing a safe, reliable, and time-efficient way to get roofing underlayment installed on commercial and residential properties. The installation doesn’t require hot tar, hot mops, or anything that could potentially be hazardous. As a mechanical self-adhering material, it’s safe and easy to use in the hands of experienced contractors. The best part is that the installation process can be done in one site visit. This means your contractors will be able to install your underlayment in a single day, saving you both time and money.
Once the installation is completed, a 2-ply barrier with a thickness of approximately 115 mils will be in place to protect the roof. The chemical composition of Tag & Stick also ensures its durability for a longer underlayment lifespan. This means it can remain within its dry stage without leaks or potential damage.
Tag & Stick LLC: The Best Roof Underlayment Choice for Your Home
The advantages of using a self-adhered 2-ply underlayment such as Tag & Stick outshine all competitors. As a durable and adaptable underlayment material that is also time- and cost-efficient, there is no better choice for your roofing needs.
If you have any questions or would like to find out more about the Tag & Stick way, give us a call today at (954) 255-3107.