Why Felt A Roof

Roofing felt is a layer of tar paper installed beneath the shingles to provide a backup waterproof membrane in case of leakage.

Why felt a roof.

The main advantage of using felt roofing underlayment is cost. Here alternating layers of roofing felt usually fiberglass and hot applied asphalt are combined to create a long lasting roof system. It helps keep your roof free from moisture which can lead to leaks rot and mold. The felt also serves as a protective membrane against ice or snow dams.

A great benefit to roofing felt is that it can also act as a moisture barrier. A layer of gravel or small stones is applied on top of the final coating of asphalt to protect the roof from the elements including ultraviolet uv rays and hail. This helps to prevent any damage being done to the wood decking in the long run. There are several disadvantages to using felt underlayment on a roof.

Basemat the flexible base layer is saturated with asphalt for water resistance. Roofing felt prevents the deck from being exposed to the elements before or while the shingles are being applied. It starts with installing solid decking usually plywood or oriented strand board but that is not waterproof. Felt is commonly sold in either 15 or 30 rolls measuring 36 inches wide.

It improves look and uniformity. When the hot air is rising through the house and reaches the roof any moisture in the air that condenses on the underside of the shingles will get caught by the roofing felt. When you install roof felt as part of a diy weekend project you must ensure that each row of felt is flat on the surface and that there is plenty of overlap between each successive row of felt. A great way to weatherproof your garden shed or tool shed is by applying felt to the roof.

The felt helps ensure water drains off the roof after a storm. Long ago a 15 role actually weighed. Felt underlayment tends to cost less compared to synthetic underlayment which is why it s often the go to for budget conscious homeowners. Because your roof deck might not lie perfectly straight or flat a layer of roof paper gives an even uniform surface upon which you can install your shingles.

Roof felt gives your roof a better appearance and will help it last longer. Felt otherwise known as underpayment is required when. Felt paper is applied across the entire roof deck. Of course it is a bit more technical than that but this is the basic idea behind how felt works.