What is the minimum underlayment for wood shakes?

What is the minimum underlayment for wood shakes?

• A. 15 lb
• B. None required
• C. 30 lb
• D. 60 lb

Answer: (C)

Wood shakes need a fairly robust underlayment to protect the roof deck and provide a smooth, water-resistant surface for the shakes to sit on. The minimum weight commonly required for wood shake roofs is 30-pound roofing felt. Lighter felt, like 15-pound, can tear more easily and may not provide enough protection or durability under the rough surface of shakes. A 60-pound underlayment is thicker than typically required and not the standard minimum for shakes. Some situations may call for special or additional barriers, but for the standard installation, 30-pound felt is the lowest accepted underlayment.

Wood shakes need a fairly robust underlayment to protect the roof deck and provide a smooth, water-resistant surface for the shakes to sit on. The minimum weight commonly required for wood shake roofs is 30-pound roofing felt. Lighter felt, like 15-pound, can tear more easily and may not provide enough protection or durability under the rough surface of shakes. A 60-pound underlayment is thicker than typically required and not the standard minimum for shakes. Some situations may call for special or additional barriers, but for the standard installation, 30-pound felt is the lowest accepted underlayment.