Anyone who's attempted a large project before knows that attention to detail is a critical component of success. This is definitely true if your large project consists of installing a roof to your home. Roofing is one thing that you don't want to mess up, as the results to your personal belongings could be disastrous.
One component of most modern roofs that doesn't get a lot of attention is roofing felt. This layer is basically an asphalt covered paper which is primarily used to keep moisture out of your home. It is placed in between the shingles and the sheathing. Proper installation of roofing felt isn't too difficult so long as you're well informed on how to do it. Here are some tips that may help you with installation of this material.
Overlapping is Critical
Cutting corners is never a good idea, especially when doing something as important as roofing. Keep this in mind when you lay the felt. Overlapping the strips of felt is absolutely essential to ensuring a watertight seal. Since the primary purpose of roofing felt is to keep moisture from getting into your home, you definitely need to overlap the strips during installation.
Smooth the Felt
Another easy, but often overlooked, aspect of installing roofing felt is to smooth out each strip after it is placed down. You don't want to leave air, leaves, nails, or anything else underneath the felt, as this can lead to damage to the sheathing or the felt itself. Smoothing may be tedious, but it is definitely necessary.
Dry the Sheathing First
A dry sheathing is essential to properly installed roofing felt. If the sheathing is wet for any reason, make sure to let it dry before you start installing the felt. It's crucial to ensure that moisture or water doesn't get caught underneath the roofing felt. This could damage the sheathing or the felt, leading to future complications. Sometimes you may need to wait for days for the sheathing to dry completely. This may be annoying, but it's essential.