A waterproof building material made from paper or felt saturated with tar or asphalt, used as underlayment for roofing and moisture protection.

Tar paper is a waterproof building material made from paper or felt saturated with tar or asphalt, used as underlayment for roofing and moisture protection in various construction applications where water resistance and vapor barriers are essential. This fundamental building material consists of a base layer of organic felt or paper that is impregnated with coal tar, asphalt, or other bituminous materials to create a flexible, water-resistant membrane that can be applied over roof decks, walls, and foundations. Tar paper is a critical component in building envelope systems where it provides secondary weather protection, prevents moisture infiltration, and serves as a backup barrier behind primary roofing and siding materials, making it an essential material for ensuring long-term building durability and preventing water damage in residential and commercial construction.

Tar paper is utilized in various construction applications including roofing underlayment where it provides a secondary water barrier beneath shingles, tiles, or other primary roofing materials, wall sheathing protection where it serves as a moisture barrier behind siding and exterior finishes, foundation waterproofing where it protects below-grade structures from groundwater infiltration, temporary weather protection where it provides immediate coverage during construction phases, vapor barrier applications where it controls moisture transmission through building assemblies, and repair work where it patches or reinforces existing moisture protection systems. Each application requires appropriate tar paper weight, installation methods, and compatibility with other building materials.

The construction and characteristics of tar paper include the base material typically made from organic felt, recycled paper, or synthetic materials that provide structural foundation, bituminous saturation using coal tar, asphalt, or modified bitumen that creates waterproof properties, surface treatments including mineral granules or smooth finishes that provide UV protection and durability, weight classifications typically ranging from 15 to 30 pounds per square (100 square feet) that indicate thickness and performance characteristics, roll dimensions that facilitate handling and installation, and adhesive properties that may include self-adhering backing or require separate fastening methods. Quality construction ensures effective moisture protection and compatibility with building systems.

Fun Fact: Tar paper was first developed in the 1840s using coal tar, and while modern versions typically use asphalt instead of coal tar, the name “tar paper” has persisted in common usage throughout the construction industry.

• Felt Paper
• Kraft Paper