Columbia, MD Roofing Contractor Discusses Felt vs Synthetic Underlayment for Maryland Residences

Ridgeline Roofers Columbia, a roofing company based in Columbia, MD, provides valuable insights into the differences between traditional felt and modern synthetic underlayment options for homes in Maryland. The company seeks to offer clear guidance on this frequently neglected aspect of roofing installations.

Roofing underlayment serves as a protective barrier between the roof deck and the shingles or other outer roofing materials. Typically made of materials like felt, synthetic polymers, or rubberized asphalt, underlayment acts as a secondary defense against water infiltration, helping to prevent leaks and prolong the lifespan of the roof. It also provides an additional layer of insulation and can enhance the overall energy efficiency of the building.

The importance of underlayment in roofing systems lies in its ability to provide an extra layer of protection against moisture, wind-driven rain, and other elements that can compromise the integrity of the roof. A spokesperson from Ridgeline Roofers Columbia explains, "Underlayment serves as a waterproof barrier, minimizing the risk of water damage to the underlying roof structure, including the decking and insulation. This is particularly important for maintaining the roof's performance and durability over time, especially in areas that are vulnerable to harsh weather."

Traditionally, roofing felt, also known as tar paper or underlayment, is a material commonly used in roofing construction. It serves as a protective barrier between the roof deck and the roofing material, typically shingles or tiles. Roofing felt is typically made from a base material such as fiberglass or organic felt, which is then saturated with asphalt to provide waterproofing properties.

The advantages of using roofing felt include its ability to provide an additional layer of protection against moisture infiltration, its relatively low cost compared to other roofing materials, and its ease of installation. However, roofing felt does have limitations, including susceptibility to damage from UV exposure over time, and potential tearing during installation if not handled carefully. Ridgeline Roofers Columbia suggests taking proper care of roofing felt to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your roof.

Unlike traditional felt underlayment, which is made from organic materials like asphalt-saturated felt, synthetic underlayment is composed of polypropylene or polyethylene polymers. Synthetic underlayment is a roofing material designed to provide protection and support beneath roofing shingles. This difference in materials gives synthetic underlayment distinct advantages over felt, including greater resistance to tearing, UV exposure, and moisture penetration.

Using synthetic underlayment offers several benefits, such as increased durability, lighter weight, and easier installation due to its flexibility and foldability. Additionally, synthetic underlayment typically provides better traction for roofers during installation and offers enhanced resistance to mold and mildew growth compared to traditional felt. However, there are some drawbacks to consider, including higher upfront costs compared to felt and the potential for slipping if not properly secured during installation. Additionally, while synthetic underlayment is generally more resistant to tearing, puncturing it with fasteners can be more challenging than with felt. Ridgeline Roofers Columbia recommends considering these factors when choosing the roofing underlayment for roofing projects.

The climate of Maryland significantly influences the choice between felt and synthetic underlayment for roofing projects. In humid climates like Maryland's, where moisture retention is a concern, synthetic underlayment, typically made of materials like polyethylene or polypropylene, offers superior resistance to mold, mildew, and rot compared to traditional felt underlayment. This resistance to moisture makes synthetic underlayment a preferred choice in areas prone to high humidity and precipitation, such as Maryland, as it helps maintain the integrity of the roofing system over time. Ridgeline Roofers Columbia recognizes the importance of this factor and recommends synthetic underlayment for roofing projects in the region.

Those who are searching for a reliable roofing contractor in Columbia, MD, and the Howard County area, can visit Ridgeline Roofers Columbia's website or contact them through the telephone or via email. They are open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, from Monday to Friday.