At BC Exteriors, we often hear homeowners and business owners focus on choosing the right shingles for their roofs. While shingles are an essential part of any roofing system, what lies beneath them is just as crucial—roof underlayment. This hidden but essential layer plays a significant role in protecting your home or business from moisture, leaks, and long-term damage.
Understanding the function and benefits of underlayment can help you make informed decisions about your roof’s longevity and performance.
What is Roof Underlayment?
Roof underlayment is the protective layer installed between the roof deck and the shingles. It acts as a barrier against water, providing an extra level of protection in case shingles become damaged or displaced.
At BC Exteriors, we use FeltBuster® synthetic underlayment, which offers superior performance over traditional felt options. It enhances moisture resistance, improves durability, and helps protect your roof from Michigan’s unpredictable weather conditions.
The Benefits of Roof Underlayment
- Protection Against Water Damage
Michigan’s climate brings a mix of rain, snow, and ice throughout the year. If water manages to get past the shingles due to wind-driven rain, heavy storms, or minor gaps, underlayment serves as a secondary defense, preventing moisture from reaching the roof deck and causing rot or mold.
- Ice Dam Prevention
During winter, melting snow can refreeze along the edges of a roof, creating ice dams that trap water. Without a proper underlayment, this water can seep into the structure, causing damage to insulation, ceilings, and walls. FeltBuster® underlayment helps prevent these leaks by creating an added moisture barrier.
- Increased Roof Longevity
A quality underlayment helps prevent long-term deterioration of the roof deck by minimizing exposure to moisture. Over time, this extends the life of the roofing system, reducing the frequency of costly repairs or premature replacement.
- Enhanced Energy Efficiency
Underlayment plays a role in ventilation and heat regulation. A well-installed synthetic underlayment like FeltBuster® helps reduce trapped moisture, preventing heat buildup in warmer months and improving the overall efficiency of a home or business’s insulation system.
- Stronger Warranty Protection
Many manufacturers require underlayment to be installed as part of a complete roofing system to qualify for warranty coverage. Skipping this step can result in voided warranties and leave property owners without protection in the event of a roofing issue.
Choosing the Right Underlayment
Not all underlayments offer the same level of protection. Traditional felt underlayment, while common in older roofs, absorbs moisture and tends to deteriorate more quickly. Synthetic underlayment, such as FeltBuster®, provides superior durability, resistance to tearing, and better moisture control.
A high-quality synthetic underlayment is also lighter, making it easier to install while reducing the overall weight strain on the roof structure. Additionally, its slip-resistant surface improves safety for roofers during installation.
How Do You Know if Your Underlayment is Failing?
Since underlayment is not visible once the roof is installed, it can be difficult to determine when it is no longer performing effectively. Some warning signs that your underlayment may need attention include:
– Frequent leaks or water stains appearing on ceilings or walls
– Curling or buckling shingles, which may indicate moisture damage beneath
– Mold or mildew growth in the attic, a sign of trapped moisture
– Sagging roof decking, which can result from prolonged water exposure
If you notice any of these issues, it may be time for a professional roof inspection. A compromised underlayment layer can lead to expensive repairs if left unaddressed.
Final Thoughts
While shingles provide the first line of defense for your roof, underlayment is what ensures long-term protection against water damage, ice buildup, and structural deterioration. Investing in a high-performance underlayment like FeltBuster® helps safeguard your home or business, improves energy efficiency, and extends the life of your roofing system.
If you have questions about your roof’s underlayment or would like an expert assessment, BC Exteriors is here to help. Call us today or fill out the form on the front page to make an appointment for an inspection.