Leak barriers have always been a key component in every roofing system for preventing water intrusion and ice dams. Modern technology has advanced leak barriers from traditional felt paper and asphalt-saturated felt options to the advanced synthetic technologies, like StormGuard Underlayment, that speed installation, provide enhanced protection and make the rooftop surface safer and more walkable for installers.
Most building codes require leak barrier protection in Northern climates, where January temperatures average 25 degrees or lower. The protection is installed at vulnerable areas such as the eaves to prevent the formation of ice and ice dams. In warmer climates, leak barriers provide critical protection from wind-driven rain. Leak barriers also protect other vulnerable parts of the roof such as the rakes, valleys and areas where there are penetrations like chimneys.
As a roofing manufacturer, GAF is continually looking at ways to enhance their products to not only outsmart the elements but also to solve real-world pain points for installers. This latest enhancement of StormGuard® Underlayment specifically addresses some of the pain points that installers have faced. Read on to learn about these enhancements and find out why StormGuard Underlayment is the professional choice for your crew.
Simplified installation process
One of the time-saving enhancements to the StormGuard underlayment is the addition of a Dual Selvage Edge that allows for bi-directional rollout of the underlayment. By having a stable, identical edge on both sides of the roll, crews no longer have to worry about rolling it out in the same direction. Once the underlayment is rolled out, the crew can install the next roll heading back toward the direction that they started, eliminating the need for multiple courses to run in the same direction. This makes the installation more efficient with crews being able to cover more ground in less time than they could with traditional underlayment installation that doesn't have the dual selvage edge.
The dual selvage edge doesn't require any extra preparation and is ready to be bonded immediately to the next course (no matter the direction that it was rolled out) with just the use of a hand roller to ensure adhesion. This makes it extremely flexible and adaptable for areas of the roof that traditionally have been more challenging, such as in valleys or other tight areas.
Improved traction and comfort for installers
The surface of StormGuard Underlayment features a durable, patterned, blue synthetic film that provides exceptional traction in both wet and dry conditions - significantly improving walkability for crews. Often synthetic films can become slick in wet conditions or when morning dew is present, but StormGuard Underlayment features a proprietary textured surface which aids in traction when the underlayment is wet or damp.
In addition, the underlayment offers enhanced moisture protection for both the home and the workers with its integral surface channels that help move moisture away from the surface where crews will be walking to help keep them safer.
This film and the traction that it delivers make it an ideal solution for full decking applications during a re-roofing project or for a new construction roofing installation. While proper safety gear is always required on every roofing job, the textured surface gives crews the traction they need to navigate the rooftop in a more secure manner.
Not only does the underlayment deliver exceptional walkability, but the blue synthetic surface also keeps roof temperatures cooler than the traditional dark-colored underlayment that most manufacturers offer. This helps installers stay cooler and contributes to improved working conditions and a reduced risk of heat exhaustion when temperatures are on the rise.
A versatile leak barrier for roofing professionals
StormGuard Underlayment is a versatile product for roofing crews. Its 250-degree high-temperature compound makes it ideal for use under both asphalt shingles and most metal roofing systems. It meets or exceeds ASTM D1970 standards for thickness, tensile strength, elongation, low temperature flexibility, tear resistance and more.
It can be applied directly over a wide variety of substrates, including plywood, OSB (oriented strand board), wood planks with non-chamfered edges, concrete, or masonry or Loadmaster surfaces. As mentioned earlier, the ability to install bi-directionally saves crews time and makes the installation more efficient than ever. Additionally, the underlayment will self-seal around nails and fasteners to reduce the chance of future leaks and call backs.
Powerful protection for your customers’ homes
StormGuard Underlayment delivers the protection that your customers are looking for and it's also backed by industry-leading GAF warranties. StormGuard Underlayment is eligible for a Lifetime Limited Warranty when it is installed with GAF Lifetime shingles and at least two additional qualifying GAF accessories.
It also offers a 10-year limited warranty when installed with approved non-asphaltic roof coverings and it can also be used to comply with the FORTIFIED Roof™ requirements.
Ready for simplified workflows, better performance and more efficient installations? Find your local GAF Territory Manager, or learn more about StormGuard Underlayment and how it can help your crews on our website.
