Categories: Roofing

Why Old Underlayment Has to Be Replaced

Roofing underlayment is what lies between the shingles and the roof sheathing, or roof deck, which is typically either plywood or OSB. Underlayment is installed directly on the roof deck and provides a secondary layer of protection from the elements, including rain, snow and wind. There are several different types of roofing underlayment, and each offers varying degrees of durability and quality. Why should you have your old underlayment replaced? What should you keep in mind? Expert roofing contractors from Barnett Roofing are here to help.

 

Why Leaving Your Old Underlayment Is Bad

There are many reasons why leaving your old underlayment and placing a new layer on top of it is bad:

  • One fresh layer of felt is required by shingle manufacturers, and if your contractor does not install your roof according to the manufacturer’s instructions, your warranty may be voided.

  • To evaluate the roof decking of your home, the old felt must be removed. There could be a problem with your roof deck, such as rotting wood, that needs to be discovered and addressed before the new roof can be placed.

  • The cost of removing the old felt/underlayment is usually included in most insurance claims that indicate a new roof is to be installed.

Why Tear-Offs Are Best For Old Underlayment

Either legally or under manufacturer warranties, roof replacement and repair contractors are frequently forced to remove old shingles before installing new ones. More than two layers of roofing shingles will almost always prompt a tear-off.

Putting new shingles on top of existing ones can cause leaks and shorten the life of the new shingles, making it the best action for any homeowner since it eliminates any pre-existing issues while improving the overall roofing system. The tear-off is necessary for several additional good reasons:

  • Shingles can be very heavy, and having too many layers of them can pose problems, especially when their weight is compounded by things like water, ice and snow.

  • As was said above, the roof decking can only be adequately evaluated after a tear-off for rot, mold and other issues that could jeopardize your new roof’s integrity.

Contact Us

Need assistance with your roof repair? Barnett Roofing has been in business for more than 20 years and has continued to offer reliable and affordable services to homeowners. From our range of GAF roofing products with unbeatable warranties to our eye for detail and courteous crews, we’re proud to have maintained our reputation as the roofing contractors that get the job done right. Since our inception, we have grown to be a GAF Master Elite® Certified Roofing Contractor, an achievement only 3% of roofers nationwide can claim, and have received an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau®, and an A rating from Angie’s List. Our consistently high ratings are proof of how committed we are to customer satisfaction. Our experienced roofing contractors guarantee prompt and honest service using some of the best products in the industry.

For any inquiries, contact us at (865) 936-6959 or fill out our contact form to request an estimate. We proudly serve clients and homeowners in the state of Tennessee.

David Barnett

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