Learn About the 5 Different Layers Of Your Roof
Roof systems are incredibly complex
Every layer of your roof system protects you, your family and home from severe weather and the elements.
You roof is not just made up of tiles, shingles, slate or metal. It is a strong shield that not only resists the forces of nature but also controls humidity and temperature levels of your home. Each layer has its’ own purpose, and all layers together work to protect but also increase living comfort under your roof.
Let’s look at the different layers and what each layer does.
Layer 1: Roof Decking or Roof Sheathing
Roof decking is the rectangle and square cut-out thick pieces of plywood that protects the house from water and the sun. The roof layer forms the structure that connects the trusses and beams. Horizontal wood and metal rest on the tops of the roof. The rafters and truss are connected by ridges and planks to form a continuous scaffolding.Layer 2: Roof Underlayment
Roof underlayment is the protective layer laid over roof sheathing to protect the plywood from water. There are options for shingle and tile underlayment – Asphalt or Synthetic.
What is Asphalt Felt Roofing Underlayment?
An old, yet effective roof substrate. It is a sandwich of paper, fiberglass mats and saturated asphalt. Most homes have 30-pound asphalt felt. This is the best choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Pros of Using Asphalt Underlayment
The main reason this is used for home is because of cost. Asphalt underlayment has been proven effective enough at protecting your home against the forces of nature.
Cons of Using Asphalt Underlayment
Traditional felt roof can not be exposed to UV rays, the Sun, for more than a few hours before it starts to leach oil and drying out. If you are laying down a shingle roof, you need to lay down the shingles within a day or two or your asphalt underlayment will become less effective in protecting your home against the elements.
- High winds crack felt paper
- Felt paper absorbs moisture if exposed to water for too long
- Heavy to lift making it harder to work with
- Slippery making it harder to work with
What is Synthetic Roofing Underlayment?
There are a number of synthetic underlayment’s but All About Roofing, LLC. prefers to use Titanium UDL 50 because we believe it is the best value for your dollar. Synthetic underlayment does a better job of increasing watertightness, water resistance and overall, better for all types of roofs.
Synthetic roofing is not standardized so remember whoever you choose to be your roofer, compare products and do your research.
Pros of Using Synthetic Underlayment
Synthetic underlayment is tougher, safer, water and mold resistant and faster to install – all of which save you on time, money and labor.
More Material
1 Roll of Synthetic = 900 sqft
1 Roll of Asphalt = 193 sqft
Source: Owens Corning
Titanium UDL 50 has nano plastic technology for a non-slip surface to improve walk and workability. The underlayment is also marked with indicators to enhance accuracy of assembly.
Moisture Resistant
Because it is synthetic, it is unaffected by water which makes it 100% inert to mold and built to repel water. This makes Titanium UDL 50 the #1 choice against moisture penetration.
Cons of Using Synthetic Underlayment
More expensive than felt, but not by much when you look at it over the long term. Synthetic underlayment is high quality commercial grade underlayment. Meaning, it is made of the highest protective qualities that will last you well over 25-years. It also saves up to 50% on workers’ time. That means it saves you on cost for labor only Think about what it will do over the long term. Not only that but it can increase the value of your home.
Radiant Barrier Aluminum Roofing Foil Underlayment
Click here to learn more information about the future of COOL roof underlayment technology.
Layer 3: Roof Flashing
Flashing is a metal, galvanized steel, aluminum, or copper that is a waterproof and self-sealing. Roof flashing drains water from chimneys and side panels where the roof connects and/or overlaps. Flashing acts a seal at the edge of the roof – which also creates some resistance to wind and rain.
Layer 4: Roof or Tile Shingles
Layer 5: Roof Ridge Caps
Ridge caps are circular type shingles and/or tiles that fit between the edge of the roof to fully protect the roof from nature and for increased airflow.