What is Roofing Felt
Roofing felt, also called tar paper, is a material that lies between the actual roof and the house and the final layer of roofing material. It is an added layer of protection from the elements, and a necessary layer should even one shingle be blown off of your roof in a storm. Typically sold in large rolls that are 36” wide, it is essentially polyester or fiberglass fleece that is soaked in some waterproofing agent.
Why is it needed?
Roofing felt protects the roof, which means it ultimately protects your home. It provides a barrier between the wood sheathing on the roof and the final roofing material. Should water or snow be driven between shingles by high winds, this under layer will provide valuable protection. There are many reasons to use roofing felt.
When you use roofing felt
- The roofing deck is protected in case it should rain before the roof is finished.
- It helps protect the roof if shingles are blown away in a storm.
- Resins that bleed out of the roof’s wooden sheathing won’t harm the shingles.
- It gives the roof a smoother, cleaner look because it helps to disguise uneven areas.
- It is an additional layer of protection from fire.
Using roofing felt insures that the other components of your roof work properly and complies with proper installation practices.
- Some shingle manufacturers require roofing felt for their warranty.
- Many areas require roofing felt as part of their building code.
- It’s an inexpensive layer of protection that can help extend the life of your roof.
How do I use it?
Roofing felt comes in rolls, typically 36” wide. The felt is rolled onto the roof in strips, with the paper overlapping. It should be applied starting at the bottom edge of the roof and then working your way up. Should water penetrate the shingles, you want it to roll easily down the roofing felt, without being able to drop into any seams between sheets, to the gutter. While installing roofing paper is a simple process, it should still be done with great care. Wrinkles in the paper, gaps in coverage, or overlapping that is done improperly will greatly compromise the overall waterproofing aspects of the roof.
