Impact-rated Underlayment
Impact-rated Underlayment | Roof Replacement | Roofing | Riceville
When Riceville storms test the limits of every shingle and flashing, HEP’s impact-rated underlayment steps in as the unseen hero. Engineered to absorb hail strikes, resist wind-driven rain, and outlast traditional felt, this advanced layer locks in a watertight seal that shields your home from the deck up. Homeowners love that it installs cleanly, lies flatter, and pairs perfectly with today’s energy-efficient roofing systems—adding instant peace of mind without changing the look of your roof.
Choose HEP for your roof replacement and you’re choosing local experts who know Riceville’s weather patterns as well as its building codes. Our team assesses, removes, and rebuilds with speed and precision, backing every job with iron-clad warranties and friendly follow-up service. From the first inspection to the final handshake, we make sure your new roof is stronger, safer, and ready for whatever Tennessee skies deliver.
FAQs
What makes an impact-rated underlayment different from standard roofing felt?
Impact-rated underlayments are engineered with high-strength polymers that resist tearing and punctures caused by hail, falling branches, or foot traffic during installation. Unlike traditional asphalt-saturated felts, impact-rated products are tested to meet ASTM D1970 or similar impact standards, providing an additional layer of protection between your roof deck and the shingles.
Why is impact-rated underlayment important for homes in Riceville?
Riceville experiences severe thunderstorms and hail events each spring and summer. An impact-rated underlayment acts as your roof’s last line of defense if shingles are blown off or damaged, preventing water intrusion until repairs can be made. It also helps homeowners in hail-prone areas qualify for insurance discounts and comply with the heightened performance requirements in the 2021 International Residential Code adopted by many Tennessee municipalities.
Will impact-rated underlayment increase the overall cost of my roof replacement?
Yes, it typically adds 5–8% to the material cost of a re-roof, or roughly $0.08–$0.15 per square foot. However, the added durability can reduce future repair expenses, extend your shingle life, and may lower your homeowner’s insurance premiums, resulting in long-term savings that often outweigh the modest upfront cost.
How long does installation take compared with standard underlayment?
For an average 2,400-square-foot roof in Riceville, installing impact-rated synthetic underlayment adds less than one hour to the total project because it is supplied in wider, lighter rolls that cover more area per course. Most complete roof replacements—including tear-off, underlayment, flashing, and shingle installation—still finish within one to two days, weather permitting.
Does impact-rated underlayment come with a manufacturer’s warranty?
Yes. Most leading brands offer 20- to 30-year limited warranties that cover manufacturing defects and weather-related failure, provided the product is installed according to their specifications. When combined with a full roofing system (starter strips, hip & ridge, and shingles from the same manufacturer), you may qualify for enhanced system warranties of up to 50 years.
Can impact-rated underlayment be installed beneath metal, tile, or asphalt shingles?
Absolutely. Impact-rated synthetic underlayments are compatible with virtually all steep-slope roofing materials—architectural shingles, standing-seam metal panels, concrete or clay tiles, and synthetic shakes. The enhanced tear resistance is particularly beneficial under heavier materials like metal and tile, ensuring the underlayment stays intact during thermal expansion, contraction, and high-wind events.