Premium self-adhering underlayment didn’t replace felt but added another level of protection at vulnerable roof areas such as ridge peaks, valleys and edges — particularly roof edges above rain gutters.
Most roofing materials carry warranties that protect homeowners from manufacturing defects and premature failure over the life of the product. But there is no guarantee against the elements themselves. The best — and perhaps only — defense against the forces of nature, regardless of the type of materials used, is a properly installed roof.
Often, however, even a good roof is not enough. High winds, hail, heavy rain, snow loads, ice dams and other naturally occurring hazards can defeat even top-quality roof coverings. Because roofing materials for most homes are designed to shed water or snow from sloped roofs, the problem is usually water backing up or being forced up between the roof covering and the structural roof deck. That’s why smart installers today add an extra layer of protection under typical roof coverings to prevent unseen damage.