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Roof underlayments play a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage, and the weather, and prolonging the life of your roof. Understanding the costs and factors affecting the replacement of underlayment, particularly for tile roofs, is essential for homeowners to make informed decisions. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into various aspects of roof underlayments, their types, costs, and factors affecting the replacement cost, especially for tile roofs.
Tile Roof Underlayments: An Overview
Tile roof underlayments are specifically designed to work with tile roofing systems, such as clay, concrete, and slate tiles. These underlayments offer long-lasting protection and durability, as tile roofs typically outlast the underlayment. Therefore, it is crucial to select a high-quality underlayment that can withstand the test of time and weather elements.
The Average Cost To Replace Underlayment On Tile Roofs
There are different types of tile roofs found across the country, such as clay tiles, concrete tiles, and synthetic tile roofs. Just like the different types of tile and different homes, the cost of underlayment also varies. But the average cost will help give you an idea of how much you should budget for the project.
Currently, the national average cost of tile roof underlayment replacement is around $1,200 to $1,400. However, the costs can even get as high as $6,000 or $7,000.
When Should You Replace Your Tile Roof Underlayment?
The lifespan of tile roof underlayment varies depending on the material, installation quality, and climate. Generally, underlayment lasts for 20 to 30 years. However, it is essential to inspect your roof periodically for any signs of underlayment failure, such as leaks, water stains, or damaged tiles. A professional roof inspection can help determine if it’s time to replace the underlayment and address any underlying issues.
Type Of Underlayment You Can Choose For Your Tile Roofing System
The type of underlayment chosen for replacement can affect the cost. Common options include asphalt-saturated felt and synthetic materials like synthetic underlayment or rubberized asphalt.
We have provided further explanation of these types of roofing materials in our blog post on the 3 Best Underlayments For A Metal Roof In 2023.
Synthetic underlayment is generally more expensive than traditional felt, but it offers enhanced durability and performance. Peel-and-stick underlayment, made of rubberized asphalt, is the easiest to use but is almost the most expensive out of all underlayments.
Here is the cost comparison
- Felt Underlayment: $0.15 to $0.55 (per square foot)
- Synthetic Underlayment: $0.25 to $0.65 (per square foot)
- Rubberized Underlayment: $0.25 to $0.75 (per square foot)
You should consider the pros and cons of different underlayment materials and factor in the associated costs when estimating the overall expense.
Other Factors Affecting The Cost Of Tile Roof Underlayment
Tile roof costs are not universal and therefore are not the same for everyone. Replacing underlayment on a tile roof involves several factors that can influence the overall cost. Understanding what parameters affect the ultimate price is crucial for you as a homeowner to estimate expenses accurately and make informed decisions.
Size Of Your Roofing System
The size and complexity of the roof play a significant role in determining the cost. In fact, the cost of underlayment replacement is directly proportional to the size of your roof.
A larger roof requires more materials and labor, resulting in higher expenses. Normally replacing an underlayment will take about three to four hours, but larger, more complex roofing systems can take more time, even up to a day or two.
Not only the roof’s size, but its complexity can also increase the cost of your underlayment project. The complex roof designs with multiple angles, valleys, or dormers can increase the difficulty of the installation process, leading to increased labor costs.
Cost Of Tile Roof Underlayment
The underlayment is the second layer of protection installed beneath the tiles. So when you decide to replace your tile roof underlayment, you need to remove the tiles too. When the contractor starts to replace the roof, he will also be checking the roof’s condition.
If your roofing system has pre-existing damage that needs to be addressed before underlayment installation, such repairs can significantly impact the overall expense of the project. The condition of the roof’s underlying structure, including the decking and support beams, plays a crucial role in ensuring the stability and longevity of the roofing system.
Local Labor and Material Costs:
The cost of underlayment replacement can vary based on regional differences in labor and material prices. Certain areas may have higher labor costs or limited availability of specific underlayment materials, leading to higher overall expenses.
When you decide to replace your underlayment, there is a high chance that you will be needing a complete roof replacement. The labor costs are a bit higher for tile roofing materials compared to asphalt shingles, as removing tiles requires more work. You can expect the labor costs to be in the range of $2.80 to $3.50 per square foot.
We advise you to research and consider local market rates when estimating the cost of the project.
The Weight Of Felt
The weight of the felt used for underlayment is another factor that can influence the cost of underlayment replacement on a tile roof.
Underlayment felt comes in different weights or thicknesses, typically measured in pounds per square. For example, the felt underlayment comes in two popular weight categories, 15 lbs, and 30 lbs. Usually, for tile roofs, a heavier felt of 40 lbs is used, which is more expensive.
The weight of the felt can affect its durability, performance, and price. Generally, felt that is heavier tends to be more expensive, but offers greater strength and protection.
Learn More: How Long Does Roof Underlayment Last?
Choosing the Right Underlayment for Your Tile Roof
Selecting the right underlayment for your tile roof depends on several factors, including your budget, local climate, and roofing material. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
Consider the Climate: If you live in an area with heavy rainfall, snow, or ice, investing in a high-quality, waterproof underlayment is essential. Rubberized asphalt underlayments offer excellent waterproofing capabilities, while synthetic underlayments provide a balance of water resistance and durability.
Check Local Building Codes: Some regions have specific requirements for underlayment materials and installation methods. Ensure that your chosen underlayment complies with local building codes.
Consult a Professional: Before you decide to move ahead with your tile roofing project, it is essential to get in touch with an experienced contractor. A professional roofing contractor can provide valuable insights into the best underlayment material for your tile roof and help you make an informed decision.
Transform Your Roof And Home: Get A Seamless Tile Roof Replacement with Our Team!
We hope that with this blog post, you are much more aware of the cost of replacing underlayment on tile roofs, and therefore, can take better care of your roofing system.
In this process, consulting a professional roofing contractor to guide you, and ensure that your tile roof underlayment replacement is done correctly and efficiently, is necessary.
This is where our team of McClellands Contracting and Roofing LLC can come to your help.
We have been in the industry for years and have installed a lot of tile roofing systems in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas of Pennsylvania. Contact us today at (412) 353-5660 to learn more about us and how we can help you get the best underlayment for your roof.
