Can Roofing Felt Get Wet?

Roofing felt, also known as tar paper, serves as both an extra layer of protection between the shingles and the plywood and as a temporary moisture barrier until all the shingles are in place. The felt's water resistance is limited and temporary.

Everything in Moderation

Roofing felt can get wet and still maintain its integrity, as long as it is not exposed to the elements for more than a few days. It will break down in sunlight and with large amounts of ongoing moisture. Roofing felt that has gotten wet can be covered with shingles as long as it is allowed to dry out first, the surface underneath did not get wet, and it did not wrinkle, bubble or rip. If the felt is still wet, it may rip when shingles are installed. If the surface underneath is wet, mold and mildew may form, leading to the disintegration of the subsurface and the roofing felt. Wrinkles and bubbles in the felt will create heat pockets that damage the shingles over time, while rips compromise the ability of the felt to protect the roof.


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