Best Types Of Roof Underlayment

Each layer of your roofing system plays a crucial role in protecting your home from the elements. As a homeowner, you might be paying all your attention to the roofing material you have installed, such as asphalt shingles. After all, this is the topmost layer and the one that is visible, but other layers beneath the roofing material are just as important. 

One crucial part of your roof is the roof underlayment. This is one of the parts that definitely gets the least attention, but it’s vital for your roofing system. This means that you should know a little bit about the different types available to you so you can make the right choice. 

Why? Choosing the right underlayment can make a significant difference in your roof’s performance and longevity.  As a leading roofing company, we’re here to help you navigate the types of roof underlayment that are available on the market, so you can make an informed decision. 

What Is Roof Underlayment?

Roof underlayment is a protective layer installed between your roof deck (the wooden or structural base) and the outer roofing materials like shingles, tiles, or metal panels. Think of it as your roof’s second line of defense against moisture, wind, and other environmental factors that could seep past the top layer of your roof.

This layer acts as a safety net, catching water that might sneak through during heavy rain and it provides additional protection against mold, rot, and structural damage.

Underlayment comes in different materials, each with its own strengths and applications. But no matter the type, its purpose is the same: to keep your home dry and your roof strong for years to come.

Here’s why installing an underlayment is important:

• Waterproofing: Even the best shingles can allow water to seep through, especially during heavy rains or storms. Underlayment acts as a secondary barrier, preventing leaks and protecting your home’s structure.
• Protection Against Mold and Rot: Moisture trapped in your roof can lead to mold and wood rot. Having a quality underlayment in place ensures that water doesn’t linger where it shouldn’t.
• Enhanced Roof Durability: Underlayment adds an extra layer of insulation and stability, helping your roof withstand harsh weather conditions, and extending its lifespan.
• Critical for Certain Climates: In areas prone to extreme weather, choosing the right underlayment can make or break your roof’s performance.

Types of Roof Underlayment

As a homeowner, you obviously want to install the best roof underlayment that you can find, so check out three of the most popular categories:  

Felt Roofing Underlayment 

Asphalt-saturated felt, often referred to as roofing felt or tar paper, is one of the most traditional and widely used types of underlayment. It’s made by saturating a base material, typically a paper or fiberglass mat, with asphalt to create a water-resistant barrier. This material has been a cornerstone of roofing for decades due to its reliability and affordability. While newer options have entered the market, asphalt-saturated felt remains a favorite for many contractors and homeowners alike.

Its popularity stems from its balance between function and cost. While it doesn’t have the same advanced features as modern synthetic materials, it provides a dependable level of protection for everyday roofing needs, especially in moderate climates. 

Advantages Of Felt Roof Underlayment 

Low Cost:

Felt roof underlayment is quite budget-friendly. This makes it ideal if you seek dependable performance without breaking the bank. Its cost-effectiveness makes it especially appealing for larger projects, or when working within a tight budget.

Ease of Installation: 

Thanks to its straightforward design, felt underlayment is easy to handle and install. Contractors appreciate its simplicity, and its widespread availability means you can find it almost anywhere.

Compatibility: 

This versatile material works well with a variety of roofing types, including asphalt shingles, wood shakes, and even some metal roofing systems, ensuring it’s adaptable to diverse projects.

Disadvantages of Felt Underlayment

Durability Concerns: 

One of the main drawbacks of asphalt-saturated felt roofing is its susceptibility to wrinkling, tearing, or becoming brittle. This does not hold up as well as it used to back in the day. 

Limited Lifespan: 

While functional, felt underlayment doesn’t have the longevity of modern synthetic alternatives, often requiring replacement sooner.

Synthetic Roof Underlayment

Synthetic underlayment has become the go-to choice for many modern roofing projects, and it’s easy to see why. Made from advanced materials like woven or spun polyethylene or polypropylene, this type of underlayment is engineered for superior durability and weather resistance. It represents a significant leap forward from traditional roofing underlayments. 

One of the standout features of synthetic underlayment is its ability to handle a wide range of environmental challenges, from intense UV exposure during installation to high winds and heavy rainfall. With its enhanced tear resistance and long-lasting nature, it’s no surprise that synthetic underlayment is gaining traction among contractors and homeowners alike. 

Advantages Of Synthetic Roof Underlayment

Lightweight and Strong: 

Synthetic underlayment strikes a perfect balance between weight and durability. Since it’s lighter, it is easier to install. But even with a lighter weight, it offers exceptional tear resistance and long-term reliability.

UV Resistance: 

Unlike traditional felt, synthetic underlayment can withstand extended periods of sunlight without breaking down, which is particularly helpful when delays occur during the roofing process.

Long Lifespan: 

Thanks to its advanced materials, synthetic underlayment is far more resistant to wear and tear than older alternatives. It’s a long-term investment that can outlast many roofing materials, ensuring your roof stays protected for years.

Disadvantages Of Synthetic Roof Underlayment

Higher Cost Than Traditional Underlayment: 

The primary downside of synthetic underlayment is its higher upfront cost compared to asphalt-saturated felt. While its long-term benefits outweigh the initial expense, it may not fit every budget.

To know more about other issues and problems with synthetic underlayment, check out our blog post:  7 Common Problems With Synthetic Roof Underlayment 

Rubberized Asphalt Underlayment

When it comes to deciding between different roof underlayments, the debate is usually between felt vs. synthetic underlayment. However, there is another type of roof underlayment that you need to know about, and it’s called rubberized asphalt underlayment.

Designed for extreme durability and superior waterproofing, this high-performance material can give your home top-tier protection against harsh weather. Most rubberized asphalt underlayments come in a peel-and-stick format which features a self-adhesive backing that creates a watertight seal when applied.

Advantages of Rubberized Asphalt Underlayment 

Superior Waterproofing: 

Rubberized asphalt is specifically engineered to provide the best possible protection against leaks. This underlayment ensures your roof remains watertight, regardless if it’s facing heavy rain or an ice dam.

Flexibility: 

Unlike more rigid materials, rubberized asphalt is highly pliable, allowing it to conform to complex roof shapes, curves, and edges with ease. This makes it ideal for roofs with unique architectural designs.

Self-Sealing: 

One of the standout features of this material is its self-sealing capabilities. Nail penetrations and overlaps automatically help to create a tight seal, preventing water from seeping through, even in vulnerable areas.

Disadvantages Of Rubberized Asphalt Underlayment

Expense: 

As a premium material, rubberized asphalt underlayment is more expensive than asphalt-saturated felt or synthetic options. The convenient adhesive attached to the product is what makes it more expensive. 

Installation Complexity: 

Installing rubberized asphalt requires a high level of expertise and careful handling. While peel-and-stick underlayment may seem easy for you to install, its self-adhesive backing can be quite challenging to work with. We recommend hiring a professional. 

Also Read: Best Roof Underlayment For Metal Roofs 

Best Roof Replacement Services In Oklahoma! 

At A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing, we have been providing top-rated roof replacement services in Oklahoma for years.  We ensure that every part of your roof is perfect, from the underlayment to the flashing, and only install quality products from leading manufacturers. Contact us today at (918) 402-7167 to get started.

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