What Underlayment Do You Use With Wood Shingles?

When installing a cedar shake or shingle roof, the underlayment matters just as much as the wood itself. At L&L Roofing & Construction, we use proven methods that protect your home while allowing your roof to perform the way it should.

Why Underlayment Matters for Wood Roofs

• Provides a secondary moisture barrier if water gets past the shingles.

• Helps improve ventilation and reduce trapped moisture.

• Protects the roof deck from rot and premature damage.

Common Underlayment Options for Wood Shingles

• Felt Paper (Roofing Felt): Traditionally used between shingle courses, allowing cedar to breathe while shedding water.

• Skip Sheathing or Spaced Decking: Often recommended for cedar, this method leaves gaps between boards so the wood can dry evenly.

• Modern Synthetic Underlayments: In some cases, we use specialized breathable synthetics designed for cedar installations, offering added durability and protection.

The choice depends on your roof’s design, local building codes, and your long-term goals.

FAQ: What Underlayment Do You Use With Wood Shingles?

Q: Can I use the same underlayment as asphalt shingles?
A: No. Wood roofing needs breathable underlayment systems. Asphalt-style synthetic sheets can trap moisture and shorten cedar’s life.

Q: What’s the difference between felt paper and synthetic underlayment?
A: Felt has been used for generations and works well, while new synthetics provide extra strength and tear resistance. Both allow cedar to breathe when installed properly.

Q: Is ventilation part of the underlayment system?
A: Yes. Proper ventilation is key with cedar shingles to prevent mold and rot. Skip sheathing or specialized underlayment helps air flow beneath the roof.

Q: Do you follow manufacturer and code requirements?
A: Always. We use underlayment systems that meet cedar industry standards and Georgia building codes.

At L&L Roofing & Construction, we install wood roofing with integrity and craftsmanship, using the right underlayment for lasting protection. If you’re considering a cedar roof in Gainesville or nearby, call us at (770) 874-0372 for a free consultation.