When it comes to roofing, the installation of roofing felt, often referred to as tar paper or underlayment, is a crucial step in ensuring the longevity and performance of a roof. An integral part of this process is understanding the roofing felt nailing pattern. In this article, we’ll provide clear and concise guidance on how to nail roofing felt correctly, whether you’re a seasoned roofing professional or a DIY enthusiast.
Why is Roofing Felt Important?
Roofing felt is a protective barrier placed between the roof deck and the roofing material, such as shingles. Its primary functions include:
- Waterproofing: Roofing felt prevents water infiltration into the structure.
- Moisture Control: It helps manage condensation and humidity within the roofing system.
- Protection from Resins: Felt prevents the resin in some wood decking from affecting the shingles.
- Added Layer of Protection: In case of wind-driven rain, felt provides an additional layer of defense.
Nailing Pattern Essentials
Proper nailing of roofing felt is essential for its effectiveness. The nailing pattern ensures the felt lies flat, doesn’t buckle, and forms a uniform, protective barrier. Here’s how to do it:
Tools and Materials Needed
- Roofing felt: Ensure it’s of good quality and free of tears.
- Roofing nails: Use galvanized or non-corrosive nails to prevent rusting.
- Hammer or nail gun: For driving the nails into the decking.
Steps to Follow
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Position the felt: Start at the lower edge of the roof and roll out the roofing felt horizontally. Overlap the edges by at least 2 inches. If you’re working with a steep roof, consider using plastic cap nails or staples to temporarily hold the felt in place.
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Secure the top edge: Once the bottom edge is in place, secure the top edge of the felt by nailing it to the roof’s fascia board. Use nails approximately 12 inches apart.
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Horizontal nailing: After securing the top edge, continue nailing horizontally along the bottom edge. Place nails every 6 inches apart to ensure the felt remains flat and tight against the roof decking.
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Vertical nailing: In addition to horizontal nailing, it’s advisable to add vertical nailing. Position nails in vertical rows, roughly 36 inches apart, to further secure the felt. This provides extra wind resistance and prevents sagging.
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Corner and flashing details: Pay extra attention to corners and roof penetrations, such as vents and chimneys. These areas may require additional fastening and sealing.
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Trim excess felt: After you’ve completely nailed the roofing felt, trim any excess material from the edges.
Key Considerations
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Wind Zone: If you live in an area prone to high winds, consider using additional nails and adhesive to secure the felt.
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Local Building Codes: Always check local building codes and manufacturer recommendations, as they may specify nailing patterns and materials.
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Roof Slope: Steeper roofs may require more frequent nailing to prevent slipping or tearing.
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Quality Matters: Invest in quality roofing felt and nails to ensure a long-lasting roof underlayment.
Final Thoughts
The roofing felt nailing pattern is a vital step in ensuring the durability and effectiveness of your roofing system. Whether you’re re-roofing your home or working on a new construction project, following the right nailing pattern will help protect your investment and safeguard your home from the elements. Always adhere to local regulations and manufacturer guidelines for best results.