When clients want to install or replace a roof, the shingles are often the first topic of conversation. Appearance is often at the top of the list. Your shingles or metal roof covering is your home’s first line of defense against the elements and a significant factor in curb appeal. But what’s under the shingles matters. You may not be able to see your roof’s underlayment, but it’s vital to protecting your home from the elements. But what type of material is best for that crucial in-between layer?
What Is An Underlayment?
Roofing underlayment is the protective layer between your roof decking, usually made from plywood or Oriented Strand Board (OSB), and your shingles or metal roof covering. We install the underlayment directly on your decking. Underlayment is designed to be water-resistant, adding an extra layer of protection against the elements. It can be made of felt or synthetic material. In addition to extra protection from the elements, underlayment adds a thin layer of insulation and creates a noise barrier during heavy rains.
What Are The Advantages Of Felt Underlayment?
Asphalt-saturated felt has protected American roofs for almost 200 years, starting with its humble origins as “tar paper.” Felt is still a popular material and has come a long way in the last few decades, with new products made from a wood cellulose base with an asphalt or fiberglass coating. Consumers usually have two thickness options– No. 15 or No. 30, with 30 being thicker and less likely to tear. The primary reason for using felt is its lower cost, often 30 to 40 percent lower than high-quality synthetic material.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Felt Underlayment?
Because of its paper-like consistency, felt underlayment is more likely to tear during installation or windy conditions than plastic-based synthetic material. It also tends to absorb water and wrinkle, which can lead to buckling shingles. Finally, the heavier weight of the felt means less material per roll, which can create more seams or overlaps during installation.
What Are the Advantages of Synthetic Underlayment?
While felt remains popular, synthetic underlayments are on the rise thanks to their top-notch water resistance and durability. Synthetic underlayments are made from polypropylene or polyethylene plastics and offer better protection from the elements when properly installed. Some of the advantages include:
- Durability and tear-resistance: Synthetic materials are less likely to tear at attachment points and resist the impact of boots on the roof when your contractor does their job.
- Synthetic materials are light and easy to install. Because of its lightweight construction, synthetic rolls are longer and wider than felt. For example, a felt roll might cover 400 square feet, while a synthetic roll covers 1000 square feet. This saves time for your contractor and means fewer seams where two rolls meet.
- High-quality products include a slip-resistant coating, making them safer for your contractor.
- Synthetic underlayments are moisture-resistant. While felt may absorb water, synthetic underlayment repels water, preventing attic leaks and mold growth.
- Your shingle manufacturer’s warranty may require synthetic underlayment because of its excellent protective qualities.
Are There Any Disadvantages To Synthetic Underlayment?
Cost is the primary stumbling block for most homeowners. However, choosing high-quality synthetic material should save you money down the road, preventing water damage to your decking and interior. Finally, synthetic underlayments are not standardized, so selecting a trusted contractor who works with a high-quality supplier is a must. At DryHome Roofing & Siding, we stay true to our name thanks to the best materials, including synthetic underlayments. Our team understands that a quality underlayment can extend your roof’s lifespan and protect your investment in the long run.
