In what condition would a roof's underlayment be inspected?

A roof's underlayment is a critical barrier that helps protect the structure beneath it from water intrusion and other environmental factors. When inspecting this component, one of the primary concerns is to check for signs of wear or evidence of water penetration.

Wear may manifest as thinning of the material, cracking, or other forms of degradation that could compromise its effectiveness. Water intrusion is significant because it can lead to serious issues such as mold growth, rotting wood, or structural damage, which often require expensive repairs.

While other conditions might also be relevant in different contexts, such as cosmetic issues or stickiness indicating potential failures, the most crucial aspect of inspecting underlayment is to ensure that it is performing its essential protective function against water and other damaging elements. In this context, monitoring for signs of wear or water intrusion is the most pertinent guideline for maintaining the integrity of the roofing system.