Roofing Felt Vs. Tar Paper: What’s The Difference?
As a roofer, just like you have your go-to material suppliers, you most likely have your chosen method of roofing underlayment installation. While there are three main types of roofing underlayment, we’re going to compare synthetic roofing felt vs tar paper. Because a roof plays such an important role in protecting a home, the quality of the roof underlayment is essential.
The Difference Between Synthetic Roofing Felt And Tar Paper
Synthetic roofing felt is an underlayment made from fiberglass fleece or polyester. It’s treated with a waterproofing agent. This is usually consistent of modified asphalt. Like other underlayment systems, roofing felt acts a barrier for moisture. Water is repelled from the roof deck and drains off without leaking into your home. It can withstand all the variables in all kinds of weather…heat, humid climates, stormy weather, and changing seasons.
In cases where roofing is damaged during a storm, Synthetic Roofing felt will continue to protect the home. Roofing felt also prevents stains from resins that leak into wood. In cases when shingles are used, fire ratings are improved when Synthetic Roofing felt is used. For roofers, Synthetic Roofing felt is much safer during installation because there is a gripping surface that prevents slipping or falling.
Tar paper and roofing felt are somewhat similar in that they both shed water. It’s a generic term and sometimes used synonymously with roofing felt because they are used the same way. Tar paper is less wind and sun resistant than other underlayment systems. And because they are organic, the humidity and the heat will deteriorate them is much less time than Synthetics which are in-organic. Although this type of system is used regularly, it is not reliable during the installation process. Moreover, it tends to tear very easily. It can be difficult to walk on. If tar paper is not disturbed or disrupted, it will do its job. However, there is also a risk of rotting and cracking over time.
The Ultimate Roofing Underlayment Solution
At Tag & Stick, we wanted to create a roofing underlayment solution that combined all the benefits of current underlayment systems. After years in the roofing industry, Tag & Stick has revolutionized the way roofers carry out their projects. This is because of the self-adhering technology combined with proven mechanical attachment; roofers save time while still offering the highest quality materials and confidence in the finished product.
The two-ply system acts as a secondary water barrier to prevent water from getting in the roof and causing damage. There is no hot tar or torches needed. This ensures that the installation is safer and significantly quicker. Additionally, there is no priming of the deck required. This means there is no time wasted waiting for the underlayment to dry before applying roofing materials. Tag & Stick works with existing flashings and battens, so when it’s time for a re-roofing, the underlayment can be removed without risking damaging the deck. The metal and cap sheet can be installed at once. This saves you even more time. Also, workmanship is never compromised.
Learn More About Tag & Stick For Your Next Project
At Tag & Stick we believe that roofing fixes don’t have to be too complicated. With our 25 years of experience in South Florida, we have extensive professional experience with both roofing contractors and roofing products. The quality of our product speaks for itself. Have questions or concerns? Reach out to us at 954-255-3107 or follow us on social media to learn more.
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