Underlayment:

Your second layer of protection. While shingles are the primary defence against the elements, underlayment provides an additional layer of protection beneath them, it is installed directly over the decking and the shingles are installed on top of this layer. If for any reason, moisture and water gets through your primary barrier, this water-resistant barrier keeps it from reaching the wood decking itself.

Just like shingles, many improvements have been made over the years to increase the durability of this layer as well. Synthetic underlayment is the most popular choice currently for its strong durability, tear resistance, and improved performance overall. This layer is commonly overlooked as most homeowners are more concerned with the shingles themselves, but having a quality underlayment is an important upgrade to your roofing system. 

Ice & Water Shield

Welcome to Canada! This may be optional in some areas around the world, but here it is a necessity. Ice & Water Shield is a self-adhering waterproof membrane that bonds directly to the wood decking, not just nailed down. This is installed around the eaves, valleys, and vulnerable areas such as around chimneys or vents that create roof penetrations. This is an important step in Canada’s harsh winters, as we deal with more ice & water build up than most places.

One of the important functions is protecting against ice dams, which occur when the melting snow refreezes near the edge of the roof, potentially forcing water back underneath the shingles. When this is installed, it helps reduce the risk of water damage and again, provides another safeguard against any potential water penetration.