Peel and Stick Roofing: The Ultimate Protection! Why It Beats Synthetic Paper Every Time!
What Is Peel and Stick Roofing Material?
Peel and stick underlayment consists of a rubberized asphalt or polymer-modified bitumen layer with a peel-off backing. The underside of the material is coated with an adhesive that bonds directly to the roof deck upon application. No nails, staples, or additional adhesives are needed to secure it in place, which simplifies installation and enhances its effectiveness as a waterproof barrier.
Key Advantages of Peel and Stick Roofing Material
1. Superior Waterproofing
Better Seal: Peel and stick underlayment adheres directly to the roof deck, creating a watertight seal that’s far more resistant to leaks than synthetic paper. This seal prevents moisture infiltration, particularly around nails and seams, reducing the risk of water damage over time.
Self-Sealing Properties: The material self-seals around fasteners or nails that may be driven through it when attaching shingles or other roofing materials, helping prevent leaks in areas that might otherwise be vulnerable.
2. Durability and Longevity
High Resistance to Extreme Weather: Peel and stick is designed to withstand harsh conditions, such as heavy rain, ice, and high winds, without tearing or coming loose. Synthetic paper, while durable, doesn’t have the same adhesive properties, which can make it less effective in extreme weather.
UV Protection: Some peel and stick underlayments are treated with a UV-resistant layer, allowing them to be exposed to sunlight for a limited time during installation without degrading, unlike synthetic paper, which can deteriorate faster when exposed.
3. Enhanced Roof Deck Protection
Effective Barrier Against Ice Dams and Snow: In colder climates, peel and stick underlayment can prevent ice dams from forming, which can otherwise cause water to seep under shingles and damage the roof deck.
Protection Against Wind-Driven Rain: The adhesive layer offers a higher level of protection against wind-driven rain compared to synthetic paper, which relies more on staples or nails for security.
4. Easy and Secure Installation
Quick and Efficient Application: Since it’s self-adhering, peel and stick is easier to install and doesn’t require the additional fasteners needed for synthetic paper. This can make installation faster and more straightforward, particularly on more complex roofs.
Reduced Need for Fasteners: Synthetic paper typically requires numerous staples or nails to secure it to the deck, and every fastener can become a potential leak point. Peel and stick eliminates most of these, creating fewer weak spots in the roofing system.
5. Long-Term Cost Savings
Reduced Maintenance Needs: Thanks to its waterproofing and self-sealing properties, peel and stick underlayment can lead to lower maintenance costs and fewer repair needs over time compared to synthetic underlayments, which may be more prone to damage.
Extended Roof Life: By providing an additional layer of protection, peel and stick can help extend the overall life of the roof, potentially reducing the need for full roof replacements.
Why It’s Better Than Synthetic Paper
In summary, peel and stick underlayment is generally superior to synthetic paper for several reasons:
Stronger Waterproofing: It offers a much higher degree of water resistance, especially around nail penetrations.
Improved Weather Resistance: It’s less likely to tear or degrade in extreme weather, making it a better choice for high-risk areas.
Faster, Safer Installation: Self-adhesive properties make installation quicker and more secure, reducing the likelihood of leaks.
Enhanced Longevity: Its durability and additional protective benefits mean it can often extend the lifespan of the roof itself.
Overall, peel and stick underlayment provides a stronger, more reliable barrier against moisture and weather-related issues, making it an excellent investment in long-term roof protection.
