Once shingles are installed, the underlayment — and any ice barrier, drip edge, or deck condition — is hidden. The only record is the photos you take before the shingles go down. That documentation supports warranty and insurance and protects you in disputes. Here's how to photograph roofing underlayment before shingles.
What to Photograph
- Full deck — overall shots of each plane so an adjuster or warranty auditor can see coverage
- Underlayment type and laps — product visible, lap spacing, and key details (ridges, valleys, penetrations)
- Ice barrier — where required at eaves; show coverage and overlap
- Drip edge and flashing — before shingles cover them
- Deck condition — any repair, replacement, or noted defect before underlayment
When to Take the Photos
After underlayment and accessories are installed, before any shingles are applied. If you've already started shingling, document what's still visible; it's better than no documentation.
Organization and Timestamps
- One job, one set — all underlayment photos tied to the same address
- Timestamped — date and time (and GPS if available) on every photo. TimeFotos adds this automatically so the sequence and timing are clear for claims and warranty
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Bottom Line
Photograph roofing underlayment — and deck, ice barrier, and flashing — before shingles go on. Keep one timestamped set per job so you have a permanent record for warranty and insurance.