Understanding Underlayment
Before diving into the main question, let’s first understand what underlayment is and why it is essential. Underlayment is a thin, water-resistant material that is typically laid directly on top of the roof decking before the installation of the actual roofing material, such as shingles. It acts as a secondary barrier that helps to protect the roof from various elements, including wind-driven rain, ice, and snow.
Types of Underlayment
There are different types of underlayment available in the market, each catering to specific requirements. The most common types include asphalt-saturated felt, synthetic underlayment, and rubberized asphalt membrane. These materials differ in terms of their composition, thickness, durability, and breathability. It is crucial to choose the right type of underlayment based on the specific needs of your roofing system and climate conditions.
The Challenge of a Steeply Sloped Roof
A steeply sloped roof poses a significant challenge when it comes to installing underlayment. The steeper the slope, the greater the risk of slipping and falling while working on the roof. Safety should always be a top priority, and homeowners should never compromise on it. Working on a steeply sloped roof requires proper safety measures, including the use of harnesses, ladders, and proper footwear, among others. It is advisable to hire professional roofing contractors who are experienced in working on steeply sloped roofs to ensure both safety and proper underlayment installation.
Stapling vs. Nailing Underlayment
Traditionally, underlayment is secured using roofing nails rather than staples. This is primarily because roofing nails provide a more secure fastening compared to staples, especially on steeply sloped roofs. Nails have a better holding power, and they are less likely to pull through the underlayment when exposed to strong winds or heavy rainfall. Staples, on the other hand, may not provide the same level of security. The risk of the underlayment tearing or becoming loose due to the weight of the roofing material or external elements is significantly higher when stapled.
Best Practices for Underlayment Installation
When it comes to underlayment installation on a steeply sloped roof, it is crucial to follow specific best practices to ensure a proper and secure installation. Here are a few key guidelines:
- Use roofer’s cement or other appropriate adhesive: To further enhance the protection against wind-driven rain, it is advisable to apply roofer’s cement or another appropriate adhesive along the seams and edges of the underlayment.
- Overlap the underlayment properly: Make sure to overlap the underlayment sheets correctly, following manufacturer guidelines. This will ensure proper water shedding and prevent water infiltration between the sheets.
- Nail the underlayment securely: Use roofing nails to secure the underlayment, ensuring it is tightly fastened to the roof deck. This will minimize the risk of tearing or detachment in adverse weather conditions.
- Consider the use of self-adhesive underlayment: Self-adhesive underlayment can be a viable option for steeply sloped roofs. This type of underlayment eliminates the need for fasteners and provides enhanced protection against wind uplift.
While it is possible to staple underlayment on a steeply sloped roof, it is not advisable due to the potential risks and limitations. Traditional installation methods involve using roofing nails, which provide better security and durability. When working on a steeply sloped roof, hiring professional roofing contractors who are experienced in working in such conditions is highly recommended. Safety should always take precedence, and following best practices for underlayment installation will help ensure a long-lasting and reliable roofing system.