When you're installing a new roof, there are a lot of decisions you have to make to begin the installation process. A metal roof is no exception. One thing that you'll need to decide is whether you want to use an underlayment when you're having your metal roof installed. 

An underlayment is a material that's positioned on your roof's deck before your metal roof is installed. Some local building codes require roofers to use an underlayment, while others permit roofs to be installed without an underlayment in certain situations. Here are a few reasons to use an underlayment when installing a metal roof.

1. The Underlayment Helps Insulate Your Home

An advantage of a metal roof is that it helps reduce your heating and cooling costs. However, when you install a metal roof with an underlayment, the roof becomes even more energy-efficient, allowing you to further reduce your energy usage.

The underlayment acts as an extra layer of insulation and works to keep warm air from entering your home during the summer months and cold air from penetrating your home during the winter months. 

2. An Underlayment Minimizes Roof-Related Noise

When something hits your metal roof, like raindrops, falling branches, or sleet, it will make noise on your metal roof. An underlayment adds cushion to your roof so that the noise isn't as intrusive. You'll still be able to enjoy the calming sound of a relaxing rainstorm, but the noise from the rain won't feel too loud or overbearing. 

3. Your Roof's Underlayment Protects Your Home

An underlayment acts as an additional layer of protection for your home. If something damages your metal roof during severe weather, your underlayment will prevent precipitation from entering and damaging your home. 

Or, if your roof has a low slope or no slope, precipitation can accumulate on your roof. If a leak occurs, the underlayment will help your roof's decking and your home's interior stay dry.

If you're installing your metal roof directly on top of your old roof (a process known as reroofing), adding an underlayment gives you an extra layer of security. Even if your old shingles look like they're in decent shape, there may be spots where moisture can penetrate your shingles. The underlayment keeps any moisture from entering your home. 

4. An Underlayment Can Improve the Appearance of Your Roof

When you lay the underlayment, you create a smooth, uniform surface to install your new metal roof. This uniform surface will help ensure that your roof panels lie smoothly and look even. Not only is an uneven roof an eyesore, but it potentially allows moisture and debris to enter your home. 

Contact a professional near you if you are in need of replacement metal roofing installation.