Installing metal roofing can present its share of challenges to novices as metal roofs are different from standard asphalt shingles in several ways. They’re sleeker, more protective, and generally provide greater cost efficiency. However, metal roofs are also often associated with what’s known as an underlayment to function correctly on your home. But does metal roofing need an underlayment, or can they work just as well without one? This is our answer to the question.
What Is a Metal Roof Underlayment?
Firstly, it’s important to understand what underlayment is. A metal roofing underlayment is a water-resistant layer of sheeting that gets installed underneath your metal roof. They’re great for providing an additional layer of protection from the elements and can even act as insulation when needed. Underlays can also reduce the amount of noise generated by your metal roof during storms.
The General Rule
Generally speaking, it’s always recommended that metal roofs are installed with an underlay. This is due to the number of benefits they tend to bring to a home. However, whether you actually need one or not can depend on other factors. For instance, if your home has a low-sloped roof and is at a higher risk of sustaining water damage, it’s essential that you have an underlayment to protect your attic. Newly constructed homes also require the use of an underlayment since their roofs might not be installed for several months.
Exceptions To the Rule
On the other hand, there are cases where your metal roof might not require an underlayment. This is when you’re choosing to install your roofing materials over your patio space or placing your metal roof directly over your asphalt one. In these cases, the underlay is unnecessary because the existing roof is already acting as a buffer.
If you’re looking to learn more about metal roofing and what’s needed to make installation the most effective, reach out to American Metal Roofs of Northern Wisconsin. Our roofing contractors in De Pere, WI, have years of experience working with these materials and know better than anyone else how to get you the results you’re after. They’ll take their time inspecting your metal roof and will help you determine whether or not your metal roofing needs an underlayment to go with your new installation.