Are you a lucky homeowner with a clay or concrete tile roof? If so, you’ll be happy to learn that, when properly maintained, they have a 50-year life span or longer. Your roof can even reach this life span in the harsh climate of Arizona.
That said, the other materials of your roof might not last as long as the tile itself. In fact, while your tile roof might last upward of 50 years, the underlayment will not. It typically has a life span of 10 to 15 years, depending on the materials installed.
As a homeowner, there are many factors you should consider when replacing your roof underlayment. The slope of your roof, the temperature of the area you live in and the type of tile you choose will affect your underlayment options.
Let’s take a closer look at all of the variables you should consider before replacing the underlayment of your tile roof. If you live in Arizona, all of the information you need to get started is below.
What is Tile Roof Underlayment?
The underlayment for your tile roof is almost as important as the roofing material itself. In short, the underlayment is a membrane that’s installed directly below the tile on your roof.
All roofs have an underlayment, not just tile roofs. This is because the underlayment acts as an extra layer of protection from extreme weather. Essentially, it’s a barrier that protects the roofing deck from moisture.
How to Choose the Best Underlayment
When it comes to the best underlayment for your tile roof in Arizona, you have two options: asphalt-saturated felt and rubberized asphalt. Each has its own benefits, so let’s take a closer look.
Asphalt-saturated Felt
Probably the most universal underlayment for roofs, not just tile roofs, asphalt-saturated felt has a high concentration of asphalt and resists moisture. As one of the most affordable options, homeowners and roofers alike are big fans.
Keep in mind, however, that there are different types of asphalt-saturated felt. There are different grades, such as 30-pound or 40-pound felt. Due to the nature of AZ’s unique weather, we use 40-pound to ensure longevity. It’s thicker, stronger, and more likely to stay intact and continue to protect you from moisture in the event that the tiles sustain damage.
Our preferred brand is a 40# ASTM grade organic asphalt from Eagle Roofing, Eagle True 2-40. In addition to being a great product, it includes a 30-year warranty with 2 layer application.
A step up from the Eagle True 2-40, with an increase in cost, is a thicker felt with more fiberglass and modifiers. MB Technology Layfast TU43 or Malarkey’s UDL underlayment.
Rubberized Asphalt
Rubberized asphalt creates a waterproof seal for your roofing deck. It contains both asphalt and rubber polymer, making it the more expensive underlayment option. We recommend this type of underlayment on slow slope areas or under solar as it is a self-adhered, rubberized underlayment that self seals around the fasteners. Our preferred brand is Bi-Tec underlayment.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace the Underlayment on a Tile Roof?
The cost to replace underlayment differs depending on a number of factors, such as the steepness of your roof. When you have a steep roof, the roofers have to use more safety protocols, so the cost rises.
The type of tile you have on your roof also affects the cost. Concrete tiles are easier to remove because they’re less prone to breaking compared to clay or sand-cast tiles.
That said, on a roof with a 6:12 pitch and an area around 3,000 square feet, you should budget around $10,000 for the work. If you decide to replace the tile roof during the process, budget around $15,000. Just remember that these are estimates, and the cost for your roof may differ.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Tile Roof Underlayment
How do you know that you need to call JBS Roofing to replace your tile roof underlayment? If your roof is 10 to 15 years old, your underlayment is probably breaking down, which means it should be replaced before moisture causes damage to the roofing deck.
That said, if your underlayment wasn’t installed correctly, it can be just a few years before it needs to be replaced. Have your roof inspected by a professional to check for leaks or signs of brittle underlayment.
Additionally, you can do a physical inspection yourself. Walk around your home and look under the eaves. If you spot water stains, it’s a clear sign that water is getting through the roof underlayment. You can go into your attic to look for signs of water damage as well.
If you notice any signs of water damage, reach out to JBS Roofing. We can properly install new underlayment for your Arizona home. Scroll down to request a free estimate, starting by entering your zip code.
