Tar Paper Roof Like a Pro: Secret Steps for Pro Protection

The Unsung Hero of Your Roof: Tar Paper

Your roof is your home’s primary defense against the elements. While shingles often steal the spotlight, a crucial, often overlooked component works tirelessly beneath: tar paper, also known as roofing felt. This seemingly simple underlayment is a critical element in ensuring a long-lasting, weatherproof roof.

Tar Paper’s Vital Role

Tar paper acts as a protective barrier between your roof deck and the shingles.

It’s the silent guardian that shields your home from moisture infiltration.

Its primary function is to safeguard the vulnerable roof deck from rain, snow, and ice.

This protection is paramount, as water damage can lead to rot, mold growth, and costly structural repairs.

Ensuring Roof Longevity Through Underlayment

Properly installed tar paper contributes significantly to the overall lifespan of your roofing system.

It provides an extra layer of defense against the elements.

This added protection helps prevent premature shingle degradation and extends the time before a full roof replacement is needed.

Achieving Professional-Grade Installation

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to installing tar paper with professional-grade techniques.

It will equip you with the knowledge and skills to protect your home effectively.

By following these instructions, you can ensure that your tar paper underlayment performs optimally for years to come.

Quality Materials and Techniques

The longevity and effectiveness of your roof depend on the quality of materials and the precision of installation techniques.

Cheap or substandard materials can compromise the integrity of the underlayment.

Similarly, improper installation can negate the protective benefits of even the best tar paper.

This guide emphasizes the use of quality materials and best-practice techniques to maximize roof longevity and safeguard your investment.

Understanding the Foundation: Why Tar Paper Underlayment Matters

We’ve established the importance of quality materials and meticulous techniques for a robust roofing system. But to truly appreciate the role of tar paper, it’s crucial to understand its foundational position and function within that system. Tar paper, or roofing felt, serves as the underlayment, a critical layer strategically placed beneath the more visible roofing shingles.

The Definition and Role of Underlayment

So, what exactly is an underlayment? It’s a water-resistant or waterproof barrier installed directly onto the roof deck before the shingles are applied. Think of it as a second skin for your roof, providing a crucial layer of defense against the elements.

Tar Paper’s Multifaceted Functions

Tar paper performs several key functions, each vital to the overall health and longevity of your roof. Let’s examine these functions in detail:

Leak Prevention and the Waterproof Barrier

Perhaps the most crucial role of tar paper is leak prevention. It creates a waterproof barrier that prevents rainwater, snowmelt, and ice dams from seeping through the shingles and damaging the roof deck below. Even the highest quality shingles can be vulnerable to water intrusion over time, especially during severe weather. Tar paper provides an essential backup.

Protecting the Roof Deck from Water Damage

The roof deck, typically made of plywood or OSB, is the structural foundation of your roof. It’s also highly susceptible to water damage.

Moisture can lead to rot, mold, and structural weakening, requiring costly repairs or even a complete roof replacement. Tar paper acts as a shield, safeguarding the roof deck and preventing these issues.

Temporary Weather Protection

Shingle installation can sometimes be delayed due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. Tar paper provides temporary weather protection during these delays. It shields the exposed roof deck from rain and sun, preventing damage until the shingles can be installed. This can be particularly critical during shoulder seasons with unpredictable weather patterns.

Extending Roof Lifespan

By preventing leaks, protecting the roof deck, and providing temporary weather protection, tar paper significantly extends the overall lifespan of the roof. It minimizes the risk of premature shingle degradation and reduces the need for costly repairs or replacements. This, in turn, protects your investment in your home.

Weatherproofing: A Holistic Approach

Weatherproofing isn’t just about slapping on shingles. It’s about creating a comprehensive system that protects your home from the elements. Tar paper is an integral component of this weatherproofing system. It works in conjunction with the shingles to create a robust, resilient barrier against rain, snow, wind, and sun. By understanding the foundational role of tar paper, you can appreciate its contribution to a long-lasting, weatherproof roof.

Gathering Your Arsenal: Essential Tools and Materials

Having established the vital role that tar paper plays in safeguarding your roof, it’s now time to assemble the necessary tools and materials for a successful installation. Proper preparation is key to achieving a professional-grade result, and that starts with having the right equipment on hand.

Tools of the Trade: Ensuring Precision and Efficiency

The right tools not only make the job easier but also contribute significantly to the quality and longevity of your tar paper installation.

Roofing Nails: The Linchpin of Secure Attachment

Roofing nails are specifically designed for securing roofing materials, and their selection is crucial. Hot-dipped galvanized nails are a must, as they resist rust and corrosion, ensuring a long-lasting hold.

The length of the nail is equally important. A general guideline is to use nails long enough to penetrate at least ¾ inch into the roof deck. For thicker roof decks or multiple layers of roofing, longer nails may be necessary.

Ring-shank nails provide superior holding power compared to smooth-shank nails and are highly recommended.

Utility Knife: Precision Cutting and Trimming

A sharp, reliable utility knife is indispensable for cutting and trimming the tar paper to the correct size and shape. Invest in a high-quality knife with a comfortable grip and a blade that can be easily replaced.

Retractable blades are a must, providing both safety and convenience. Keep extra blades on hand to ensure a clean, precise cut every time, and change the blade frequently.

Measuring Tape: Accuracy is Paramount

Accurate measurements are crucial for minimizing waste and ensuring proper overlap. A durable measuring tape that extends at least 25 feet is recommended.

Look for a tape with clear, easy-to-read markings and a sturdy clip for attaching it to your belt or tool bag. Double-check all measurements before cutting to avoid costly errors.

Chalk Line: Creating Straight, Professional Lines

A chalk line is essential for creating straight, consistent lines for overlapping the tar paper. This ensures a uniform appearance and proper water runoff.

Choose a chalk line reel with a durable string and a generous chalk capacity. Use blue chalk, as it is less likely to stain roofing materials.

Optional: Roofing Stapler for Temporary Fastening

While not essential, a roofing stapler can be a valuable tool for temporarily fastening the tar paper in place, particularly in windy conditions. Use only roofing staples designed for this purpose, as standard staples may corrode and fail.

Remember that staples are not a substitute for roofing nails. They are merely a temporary aid to keep the tar paper in place while you secure it with nails.

Materials That Matter: Selecting Quality for Longevity

Choosing the correct materials is as important as using the right tools. Skimping on quality can compromise the entire roofing system.

Tar Paper (Roofing Felt): Understanding the Options

Tar paper, also known as roofing felt, comes in various grades, typically designated by weight (e.g., 15 lb, 30 lb). The weight indicates the material’s water resistance and durability.

15 lb felt is a lighter option suitable for mild climates and roofs with a longer shingle lifespan. 30 lb felt offers superior water resistance and is recommended for harsher climates or roofs with a shorter shingle lifespan.

Synthetic underlayments are also available, offering even greater tear resistance and water protection. These tend to be more expensive than traditional tar paper but can be a worthwhile investment.

Roofing Cement: Sealing the Gaps

Roofing cement is a thick, waterproof sealant used to seal seams, penetrations (such as vents and chimneys), and any areas where the tar paper may be vulnerable to water intrusion.

Choose a high-quality roofing cement that is specifically designed for roofing applications and is compatible with your roofing materials.

Apply roofing cement liberally to all seams and penetrations, ensuring a watertight seal.

Roofing Shingles: The Final Layer of Protection

While not directly part of the tar paper installation, it’s important to remember that roofing shingles are the final, visible layer of your roofing system. The tar paper underlayment provides a crucial foundation for the shingles, protecting the roof deck from water damage and extending the overall lifespan of the roof.

Step-by-Step Guide: Installing Tar Paper Like a Pro

Now, armed with the proper tools and materials, we move to the heart of the matter: the installation process itself. Installing tar paper correctly is not merely about slapping it on the roof; it requires careful attention to detail and adherence to best practices to ensure a durable and weatherproof underlayment. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, transforming you from a novice to a proficient installer.

Preparation is Key: Setting the Stage for Success

Just as a painter preps a canvas, proper preparation of the roof deck is paramount before laying down any tar paper. This stage lays the foundation for a successful and long-lasting roofing system.

Inspecting for Damage

Begin with a thorough inspection of the roof deck. Look for signs of rot, water damage, or soft spots. Any compromised areas must be repaired or replaced before proceeding. Ignoring these issues will only lead to more significant problems down the line.

Cleaning the Roof Deck

Remove all debris, including old nails, shingles, dirt, and leaves. A clean surface ensures proper adhesion of the tar paper and prevents any punctures or tears.

Safety First

Roof work is inherently dangerous. Always wear appropriate safety footwear with good traction. Use a sturdy ladder that is properly secured. Consider using a safety harness, especially on steeper roofs. Never work on a roof in wet or windy conditions.

Measuring and Cutting Tar Paper: Precision for a Perfect Fit

Accurate measurements and precise cuts are essential for a seamless and professional-looking tar paper installation.

Calculating Material Needs

Measure the length and width of each roof plane. Add a bit extra (around 10%) to account for overlaps and waste. This will ensure you have enough tar paper to complete the job.

Cutting to Manageable Lengths

Unroll the tar paper and cut it into manageable lengths, typically around 20-30 feet. This makes it easier to handle and position on the roof. Avoid cutting too much at once, as wind can easily carry it away.

Installing the First Course: Establishing a Solid Foundation

The first course of tar paper is the foundation upon which the rest of the underlayment will be built. Accuracy and careful alignment are crucial at this stage.

Starting at the Eaves

Begin at the lowest edge of the roof, the eaves. This ensures that any water runoff will flow over the tar paper, not underneath it.

Aligning with Precision

Align the edge of the tar paper precisely with the edge of the roof. A slight overhang (about 1/2 inch) is acceptable to ensure water drips clear of the fascia board.

Securing with Roofing Nails

Using roofing nails, secure the tar paper along the top edge. Space the nails evenly, typically every 6-12 inches. Ensure the nails penetrate the roof deck sufficiently to provide a secure hold. Stagger nail placement to prevent creating a straight line of weakness.

Overlapping Subsequent Courses: Creating a Weatherproof Barrier

Proper overlapping of subsequent courses is vital for creating a truly waterproof barrier. This technique prevents water from seeping between the layers of tar paper.

The Importance of Overlap

Each subsequent course of tar paper must overlap the previous course by a minimum of 2-4 inches. This creates a shingle-like effect, channeling water downwards and away from the roof deck. Local building codes may specify a particular overlap amount; always check and comply with these requirements.

Using a Chalk Line for Alignment

Use a chalk line to create a straight, visible line for aligning each course. This ensures a consistent overlap and a professional appearance.

Secure and Stagger

Secure each course with roofing nails, spacing them evenly as with the first course. Stagger the nail pattern from the course below to avoid creating lines of weakness.

Sealing Seams and Penetrations: Fortifying Against Leaks

Sealing seams and penetrations is an often-overlooked but crucial step in ensuring a watertight roof.

Roofing Cement Application

Apply a generous bead of roofing cement to all seams, particularly at the overlaps. This creates an extra layer of protection against water intrusion.

Addressing Roof Vents

Carefully seal around all roof vents, pipes, and other penetrations with roofing cement. Use flashing where appropriate to create a watertight seal. Neglecting these areas is a common cause of leaks.

Addressing Valleys and Ridges: Critical Areas of Vulnerability

Valleys and ridges are particularly vulnerable to water damage and require special attention during tar paper installation.

Valley Installation

In valleys, run a continuous piece of tar paper down the center of the valley before installing the regular courses. This provides an extra layer of protection in this critical area. Overlap subsequent courses onto the valley tar paper by at least 6 inches on each side.

Ridge Installation

At the ridge, overlap the tar paper from both sides of the roof, creating a continuous seal along the peak. Secure with roofing nails and seal with roofing cement.

Avoiding Pitfalls: Common Tar Paper Installation Mistakes and How to Correct Them

Even with the best intentions and a detailed guide, tar paper installation can be fraught with errors. Knowing the common missteps and how to address them is crucial to ensuring the integrity of your roof and preventing costly future repairs. Let’s explore some prevalent issues and their solutions.

Wrinkles and Bubbles: A Smooth Surface is Key

Wrinkles and bubbles in the tar paper are more than just cosmetic imperfections. They create uneven surfaces that can compromise the shingle installation and trap moisture.

Prevention is the best cure. Ensure the tar paper is laid flat and taut as you roll it out. Work in manageable sections, and avoid installing on excessively windy days, which can make handling the material difficult.

Correction: Small wrinkles can sometimes be smoothed out by carefully lifting the tar paper and re-securing it. Larger wrinkles or bubbles may require cutting the affected area, overlapping a new piece of tar paper, and sealing it with roofing cement. Consider using a utility knife to cut an “X” in the bubble, flatten the flaps, and seal them down.

Improper Nailing: Securing for the Long Haul

The purpose of roofing nails is to keep the underlayment securely attached, and incorrect nailing can lead to wind uplift and water penetration.

Correct spacing is vital. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for nail spacing, typically every 6-12 inches along the edges and 12-24 inches in the field. Use the correct type of roofing nails – those with a large head that won’t tear through the tar paper.

Depth matters. Nails should be driven in straight and flush with the surface, not too deep (which can tear the paper) and not protruding (which can interfere with shingle installation).

Correction: If nails are spaced too far apart, add more nails to achieve the correct spacing. If nails are driven in too deep, remove them and patch the hole with roofing cement before re-nailing nearby. Protruding nails should be hammered down carefully, ensuring they don’t tear the tar paper.

Skipping Roofing Cement: Watertight Integrity

Roofing cement is your first line of defense against water intrusion at seams, around penetrations, and in valleys. Omitting this step is a critical error.

Always apply roofing cement to all overlapping seams, ensuring a continuous, watertight seal. Use it generously around vents, chimneys, and other roof penetrations. In valleys, apply a wide band of roofing cement beneath and over the tar paper.

Correction: If roofing cement was skipped initially, go back and apply it meticulously. Lift the edges of the tar paper slightly and apply the cement underneath, then press the paper firmly into place.

Not Accounting for Roof Vents: Sealing Penetrations

Roof vents are essential for attic ventilation, but they also create vulnerable points for water entry if not properly sealed.

Carefully cut the tar paper around the vent opening, leaving a slight overlap onto the vent flange. Apply a generous bead of roofing cement around the flange where it meets the tar paper.

Correction: If a vent wasn’t properly sealed during installation, remove any loose or damaged tar paper around the vent. Clean the area thoroughly, apply fresh roofing cement, and then reinstall or replace the tar paper as needed.

Ignoring Potential Moisture Damage: Addressing the Root Cause

Tar paper is designed to protect the roof deck from moisture, but it cannot solve existing underlying problems.

Before installing tar paper, thoroughly inspect the roof deck for signs of rot, mold, or water damage. Address these issues before laying down the underlayment. Ignoring them will only lead to further deterioration and costly repairs.

Correction: If moisture damage is discovered after tar paper installation, the affected area must be carefully removed and the damaged roof deck repaired or replaced. Only then should new tar paper be installed and properly sealed.

Long-Term Protection: Inspection and Maintenance

The work doesn’t end once the shingles are on. The longevity of your roof, and the effectiveness of your tar paper underlayment, hinges on consistent inspection and diligent maintenance. Think of your roof as a vital organ; neglecting it will inevitably lead to problems.

The Importance of Regular Inspections

Regular roof inspections are paramount to identifying and addressing issues before they escalate into costly repairs or, worse, a complete roof failure. Ideally, conduct inspections at least twice a year – once in the spring after winter’s harsh conditions and again in the fall before the onset of cold weather.

However, increased inspection frequency is necessary following severe weather events such as heavy storms, strong winds, or hail. These events can cause hidden damage to the roofing system, including the underlayment.

Early detection is key.

What to Look For During an Inspection

• Visible Damage: Carefully examine the roof for any signs of physical damage such as tears, punctures, or displaced tar paper. Pay particular attention to areas around roof penetrations like vents, chimneys, and skylights.

• Seam Integrity: Inspect all seams and overlaps for signs of separation or deterioration. Ensure that roofing cement is still effectively sealing these critical areas.

• Nail Integrity: Check the roofing nails for proper seating. Popped-up or missing nails are a sign of potential issues that needs to be addressed quickly to maintain the underlayment’s effectiveness.

• Signs of Moisture: Look for any indications of moisture intrusion, such as water stains, mold growth, or dampness on the underside of the roof deck. These are telltale signs that the tar paper underlayment is compromised.

Addressing Damage and Imperfections Promptly

Delaying necessary repairs to the tar paper underlayment can lead to more extensive damage to the roof deck and interior of the building. Address any discovered issues without delay.

Minor Repairs

Small tears or punctures in the tar paper can often be repaired with roofing cement and a patch of new tar paper. Clean the area around the damage, apply a generous amount of roofing cement, and overlap the patch onto the existing tar paper. Secure the patch with roofing nails.

Replacing Damaged Sections

Larger damaged sections of tar paper may require complete replacement. Carefully cut away the damaged section, ensuring to overlap the existing tar paper by several inches. Apply roofing cement to the overlap and secure the new section with roofing nails.

Professional Assistance

For extensive damage or if you are uncomfortable performing the repairs yourself, consult a qualified roofing professional. They have the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively address complex roofing issues.

The Ongoing Benefits of Weatherproofing

The primary function of tar paper is to act as a waterproof barrier, protecting the roof deck from moisture damage. By maintaining the integrity of the tar paper layer, you are safeguarding the entire roofing system and extending its overall lifespan.

Properly installed and maintained tar paper not only prevents leaks but also helps to regulate the temperature inside the building. It protects the roof deck and reduces the risk of wood rot, mold growth, and other moisture-related problems. Regular inspection and maintenance are investments in the long-term performance and value of your property. Don’t overlook this important step.

So, there you have it! With these secret steps on how to tar paper a roof, you’re well on your way to pro-level protection. Now get out there and get that roof covered right!