The underlayment is the unsung hero that provides the last line of defense against the harsh Arizona climate and plays a pivotal role in ensuring your roof’s longevity and your home’s comfort. In this blog post, we will explore what type of roofing underlayment is best for a home in Arizona, helping you make an informed choice for your roofing project.
Understanding Roofing Underlayment
Roofing underlayment is a water-resistant or waterproof barrier installed between the roof deck and the final roofing material. It serves several crucial purposes, including:
Waterproofing: Protects your home from water infiltration, especially during heavy rain or monsoon seasons.
Additional Insulation: Provides an extra layer of thermal protection, contributing to your home’s energy efficiency.
Enhanced Durability: Increases the lifespan of your roof system by shielding it from moisture damage and reducing wear and tear.
Now, let’s delve into the types of roofing underlayment best suited for Arizona’s climate:
- Synthetic Underlayment:
Synthetic underlayment has become increasingly popular due to its excellent durability and moisture resistance. It is typically made from high-tech polymers, making it lightweight and easy to install. In Arizona, where extreme heat can be a challenge, synthetic underlayment’s resistance to UV radiation is a significant advantage. It can endure prolonged exposure to the sun without degrading, helping to protect your roof and home effectively. These do not dry out over their lifespan.
Typical Manufacturer’s Warranty: 25 years to Limited Lifetime
- Felt Underlayment (Asphalt-Saturated):
Traditional felt underlayment, made from organic or fiberglass materials saturated with asphalt, is a cost-effective option for roofing in Arizona. While it provides decent water resistance, it may not be as durable as synthetic alternatives under the intense desert sun. However, it can be an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget as long as it meets code requirements for the roof being installed.
Typical Manufacturer’s Warranty: limited time period and limited to manufacturer defects only
- Rubberized (SBS) Asphalt Underlayment:
Rubberized asphalt underlayment is a premium option for Arizona’s roofing needs. It offers exceptional moisture resistance and can withstand extreme temperatures, making it an ideal choice for the desert climate. Additionally, its self-sealing properties make it highly effective at preventing water intrusion and tend to last longer than standard/organic felt options.
Typical Manufacturer’s Warranty: 10-30 years
- Peel-and-Stick Underlayment:
Peel-and-stick underlayment, also known as self-adhesive underlayment, provides superior protection against moisture infiltration. Its self-sealing capabilities create a watertight barrier, even in high-wind areas common in Arizona. This type of underlayment is also effortless to install, saving you time and labor costs.
Typical Manufacturer’s Warranty: Limited manufacturer defects only – up to Limited Lifetime
- Ventilated Underlayment:
In Arizona’s hot climate, proper ventilation is crucial to prevent heat buildup in your attic space. Ventilated underlayment combines moisture resistance with built-in airflow channels, ensuring your attic stays cool and dry. This can enhance the lifespan of your roofing materials and reduce energy costs.
Typical Manufacturer’s Warranty: Base on underlayment used with the venting options.
Choosing the right roofing underlayment for your Arizona home is a critical decision that should not be overlooked. Each type of underlayment has its unique advantages, and the best choice depends on your budget, climate, and long-term goals.
At Caliber Roofing and Solar Services, we understand the distinct challenges Arizona homeowners face, and we are here to help you make the best roofing decisions. Our experts can assess your specific needs and recommend the ideal roofing underlayment to ensure your roof performs optimally in Arizona’s unpredictable climate.
Don’t leave your roofing project to chance. Contact Caliber Roofing and Solar Services today for professional advice and top-notch roofing services that will keep your Arizona home protected for years to come.
