As the summer heat grows stronger, Arizona monsoon season comes closer. Preparing for monsoon season as a homeowner is absolutely essential to your roof’s health. Here in the Valley of the Sun, we experience dramatic shifts from scorching heat to heavy downpours during monsoon season. A properly installed roof underlayment is vital for keeping your home safe from water damage.
What is Roof Underlayment?

Our roofing experts describe roofing underlayment as a protective barrier beneath your roof shingles or tiles. It’s a waterproof barrier, typically made of felt or synthetic materials, that sits directly on top of the roof deck (the structural base of your roof). Having a strong roof underlayment is essential to the integrity of the rest of your roof.
Why is Roof Underlayment Important During Monsoon Season?
While your roof shingles are the first line of defense against the monsoon rains, they aren’t perfect. Windblown rain can get underneath damaged shingles, and heavy downpours can overwhelm even the most robust shingle design. This is where your roof underlayment comes into play.
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Waterproofing: A good quality underlayment acts as a secondary water barrier. Even if some water sneaks past your shingles, the underlayment channels it away from the roof deck and towards the gutters, preventing leaks and potential water damage to your home’s interior.
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Secondary Defense: Monsoon storms can be unpredictable, and sometimes shingles can get blown off during high winds. A properly installed underlayment provides an extra layer of protection in these situations, preventing water from directly reaching the roof deck until repairs can be made.
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Durability: Underlayment protects the roof deck from the elements, extending the lifespan of your entire roof system. Especially during the harsh Arizona sun, quality underlayment shields the roof deck from heat damage, which can cause warping and cracking over time.
Maintaining Your Roofing Underlayment
Just like your roof shingles, underlayment isn’t invincible. Here’s how to ensure it performs optimally during monsoon season:
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Regular Roof Inspections: Schedule a professional roof inspection before monsoon season hits. A qualified roofer can identify any tears, punctures, or signs of wear and tear in the underlayment and recommend repairs if necessary.
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Preventative Maintenance: Keep your gutters clean and free of debris throughout the year. Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling on the roof, which can damage the underlayment over time.
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Material Matters: When it comes to underlayment, discuss options with your roofer. Synthetic underlayment is becoming increasingly popular due to their superior moisture resistance and durability compared to traditional felt underlayment.
Maintain Your Roof and Peace of Mind During Monsoon Season
A properly installed and maintained roof underlayment is a silent guardian, working tirelessly to protect your home from the relentless Arizona monsoon season. By taking some preventative measures and ensuring your underlayment is in good shape, you can face the storms with confidence, knowing your home is well-protected. Worried about the quality of your roof underlayment currently?
Contact one our team of roofing professionals today to get a roof inspection to ensure your roof quality. We always recommend getting your roof inspected prior to monsoon season.
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