When it comes to roofing, one of the most essential tasks is properly installing tar paper. Often referred to as roofing felt, tar paper serves as a protective layer between the roof deck and the shingles, helping to prevent water and moisture from penetrating your home. This guide will walk you through installing tar paper on roof surfaces, highlighting its importance and providing easy-to-follow instructions to ensure a professional-quality job.
Whether you’re replacing a roof or starting a new build, learning how to install tar paper correctly will help protect your investment and maintain the longevity of your roof.
What is Tar Paper and Why Is It Important?
Before diving into the specifics of installing tar paper on roof structures, it’s crucial to understand what tar paper is and why it’s a vital component of a well-built roof.
Read too: How To Replace Roof Shingles That Blew Off: A Comprehensive Guide
What is Tar Paper?
Tar paper is a heavy-duty, water-resistant material made from organic fibers such as wood pulp, and it’s typically coated with tar or asphalt to increase its durability and moisture resistance. It comes in rolls and is laid directly onto the roof deck, providing an additional layer of protection against water damage.
Why is Tar Paper Important?
The primary purpose of tar paper is to act as an underlayment beneath the shingles, creating a barrier between the roof deck and the elements. While shingles are designed to repel water, wind, and UV rays, they can still develop cracks or become displaced over time. Tar paper serves as a backup layer to protect the roof deck from moisture and water infiltration, especially in harsh weather conditions. It also improves fire resistance and contributes to a smoother surface for the shingles.
Benefits of Installing Tar Paper
- Moisture Protection: Tar paper helps prevent moisture from entering your roof structure, reducing the risk of rot, mold, and leaks.
- Added Insulation: It acts as an additional insulating layer that keeps your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
- Wind Resistance: When installed properly, tar paper adds an extra layer of wind resistance, helping your roof stay intact during storms.
- Extends Roof Life: Tar paper helps extend the overall life of your roof by offering an added layer of protection to the roof deck.
Tools and Materials Needed for Installing Tar Paper on Roof
Before starting the installation, gather the necessary tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Tar paper rolls (15 or 30 lb weight)
- Roofing nails or staples
- Hammer or staple gun
- Utility knife
- Chalk line
- Ladder
- Tape measure
- Roofing cap nails (for additional wind protection)
- Safety gear (gloves, non-slip shoes, safety harness)
Installing Tar Paper on Roof: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have your tools and materials, let’s move on to installing tar paper on roof surfaces. This step-by-step guide will help you achieve a smooth and secure installation, ensuring your roof is well protected.
Step 1: Prepare the Roof Surface
Before you begin laying tar paper, it’s crucial to make sure the roof deck is clean and free from debris, nails, or old roofing material. If there are any loose nails or protrusions, hammer them down to create a flat, smooth surface for the tar paper. If you’re replacing an old roof, remove any remaining shingles and nails, and inspect the roof deck for rot or damage. Repair any damaged areas before proceeding.
Step 2: Choose the Right Tar Paper
Tar paper typically comes in two weights: 15-pound and 30-pound rolls. The weight refers to the durability and thickness of the paper. For most residential roofs, 15-pound tar paper is sufficient, but if you live in an area prone to extreme weather or heavy rainfall, consider using 30-pound tar paper for added protection.
Step 3: Measure and Cut the Tar Paper
Measure the length of your roof from one side to the other. Unroll the tar paper and use a utility knife to cut it to the appropriate length. It’s always better to cut a little extra to allow for overlap and ensure full coverage of the roof surface.
Step 4: Align the First Sheet of Tar Paper
Start at the bottom edge of the roof, near the eaves. Align the first sheet of tar paper horizontally, allowing it to overlap the edge of the roof by about 1/2 to 3/4 inch. This overhang ensures that water will flow off the roof, rather than back under the paper.
Step 5: Secure the Tar Paper with Roofing Nails or Staples
Once the first sheet of tar paper is aligned, secure it to the roof deck using roofing nails or staples. Start at one end of the roof and work your way across. Space the nails or staples about 12-18 inches apart along the top edge and down the center of the paper. Be sure to use enough fasteners to prevent the tar paper from lifting in windy conditions. If you’re working in an area with high wind, consider using roofing cap nails for extra security.
Step 6: Overlap the Next Sheets
As you work your way up the roof, overlap each new sheet of tar paper by at least 2 inches over the previous one. This overlap prevents water from seeping through the seams. For added protection, make sure the overlap follows the slope of the roof, so water naturally flows downward.
Step 7: Secure the Seams
To ensure maximum protection, secure the seams where the tar paper overlaps. You can do this by nailing or stapling along the seams, or by using roofing cement for a more watertight seal. Pay special attention to areas around roof penetrations, such as chimneys or vent pipes, as these spots are particularly vulnerable to leaks.
Step 8: Cut Around Roof Penetrations
If your roof has chimneys, vents, or skylights, you’ll need to cut the tar paper to fit around these penetrations. Use your utility knife to make precise cuts, and secure the edges of the paper around the penetration with roofing cement or extra nails to prevent water infiltration.
Step 9: Apply the Final Layer
Once you’ve covered the entire roof surface with tar paper, inspect your work for any gaps, loose fasteners, or exposed edges. Apply a final layer of roofing cement to any vulnerable areas, and double-check that the tar paper is securely fastened and properly aligned.
Installing Tar Paper on Roof: Important Tips and Best Practices
To ensure your roofing project goes smoothly and provides long-lasting protection, keep the following tips and best practices in mind when installing tar paper on roof surfaces:
1. Work in Dry Conditions
Tar paper is water-resistant, but it’s best to install it on a dry day to avoid slipping hazards and ensure proper adhesion. Avoid installing tar paper in wet or windy conditions, as this can affect its performance and make the job more dangerous.
2. Wear Proper Safety Gear
Roofing can be a dangerous job, especially on steep slopes. Always wear safety gear, including non-slip shoes, gloves, and a safety harness. Ensure your ladder is stable and secure before climbing, and take your time when moving around the roof to prevent accidents.
3. Use Quality Materials
While it’s tempting to cut costs, using high-quality tar paper and roofing nails will help ensure your roof stays protected for years to come. Cheap or poorly installed materials may result in premature wear and water damage.
4. Check Local Building Codes
Before starting your roofing project, check local building codes to ensure you’re following any specific guidelines or regulations related to underlayment installation. Some areas may require specific types of tar paper or additional layers for added protection.
How Tar Paper Compares to Other Roofing Underlayments
While tar paper is a widely used and effective roofing underlayment, it’s not the only option available. Other alternatives include synthetic underlayment, rubberized asphalt, and peel-and-stick membranes. Here’s how tar paper compares:
- Synthetic Underlayment: Lightweight and tear-resistant, synthetic underlayment is more expensive than tar paper but offers better durability and UV resistance.
- Rubberized Asphalt: This underlayment provides superior waterproofing and is often used in areas prone to heavy rainfall or ice dams. However, it’s more expensive than tar paper.
- Peel-and-Stick Membranes: These self-adhesive underlayments are easy to install and offer excellent water resistance, but they can be costly and are typically used for specific problem areas rather than the entire roof.
Tar paper remains a popular choice due to its affordability, availability, and proven track record in protecting roofs from moisture damage.
Conclusion: Ensuring a Long-Lasting Roof with Proper Tar Paper Installation
Installing tar paper on roof surfaces is a critical step in ensuring your roof is protected from water damage and moisture intrusion. By following the step-by-step guide above, you can install tar paper effectively and extend the lifespan of your roofing system. Remember to work safely, choose the right materials, and pay attention to details such as overlaps and seams for a watertight installation.
By properly installing tar paper, you’ll create a durable and secure barrier between your roof deck and the elements, helping your home stay safe and dry for years to come.
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