The first singing telegram was delivered on this day in 1933. Not all messages are quite that blatent. Some are subtle, but still should be heard -- like the hidden message in builder’s paper (often called tar paper). It is the black paper roll used as underlayment on roofing, under various types of shingles. Recently there’s been some dispute as to whether it’s needed or not. Today we’d like to clear things up. In the event of a storm where shingles can blow off, it provides protection until repairs can be made. It is one of the elements figured into a fire rating. The big message for homeowners is: without builder’s paper the manufacturer’s warranty is void. And that's the On The House tip for today.