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What is Sarking?

Mary McMahon
By
Updated May 17, 2024
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The term “sarking” is used in several different ways in construction. In general, it is a panel which is used as an underlayment, and may be used in the construction of walls, or in the construction of a roof. In walls, people may refer to “scrim and sarking” construction, a technique used in many older homes. People doing refurbishment and repair of such homes may opt to reproduce this building technique to preserve the character of the structure.

On a roof, sarking is used as part of the underlayment or roof membrane. It acts as a barrier to prevent moisture from entering the roof and the home, and also helps to reflect heat. The underlayment will help a home stay cool in the summer and will keep warmth inside during the winter, keeping temperatures stable. It can also help make a roof more wind resistant, which can be valuable in some climates.

Several materials can be used for sarking on a roof. Historically, it was done with boards known as sarking boards which were laid under the tiles, shingles, or other roofing materials used. Modern underlayments may be made from felt or other materials, and it is often laid over a secondary barrier material. It is common for roofs to include several layers of underlayment in their construction, and this may in fact be required by building code in some regions of the world.

In walls, sarking is put up in the form of flat panels which historically were covered in a fabric material known as scrim. Wallpaper, plaster, or other finishes could be applied directly to the scrim and sarking. In restoration of older homes, people may notice scrim and sarking construction once they manage to get through the layers of materials added over the years. For those who would like to restore walls which use this technique, the old scrim can be removed and replaced with new material after any damage to the sarking boards has been repaired.

The type of underlayment material under discussion is usually evident from the context. The term “sarking” is used in several nations to refer to various aspects of construction. If one is not sure about what people are talking about, a quick clarifying question should resolve the issue; many people who work in construction are aware that a variety of terms are sometimes used, and they will be happy to explain.

About Mechanics is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Mary McMahon
By Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a About Mechanics researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

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Discussion Comments
By golf07 — On Jul 22, 2011

I had never heard of the word sarking before this summer. We had some major hail that damaged our roof and all of our neighbors had the same damage. We all had to end up getting our roofs replaced because of the damage from the hail.

When the contractors were discussing what needed to be done, they referred to the sarking insulation that was already on the roof. I asked them what they were talking about and they explained it was the waterproof material that was behind the roofing material.

You don't want to have your roof replaced to discover what a new word means, but at least I know what someone is talking about when I hear them use this term now.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a...

Learn more
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