Synthetic underlayment has become a game-changer in the roofing industry, offering increased durability and weather resistance compared to traditional felt. Choosing between synthetic underlayment and felt for your roof isn’t just a question of style—it’s a critical decision that impacts the longevity of your roof, its ability to protect your home, and even the overall safety of your property.
Whether you’re planning a roof replacement, working with a roofing contractor, or exploring options for your roof deck, understanding the differences between synthetic underlayment and felt is essential. This guide will break down the key differences, benefits, and considerations for each, helping you decide what’s best for protecting your home.
Key Considerations for Underlayment Selection
- Durability and Performance: How well do synthetic underlayment and felt hold up over time?
- Weather Protection: Which underlayment offers better protection against leaks, mold growth, and extreme conditions?
- Cost and Installation: What are the costs associated with each, and what role does proper installation play?
By the time you finish this blog, you’ll have the knowledge you need to make an informed decision. Let’s explore the pros and cons of synthetic underlayment and felt, and why choosing the right roof underlayment is critical for the health of your roof.
What Is Roof Underlayment and Why Is It Important?
Roof underlayment is a water-resistant or waterproof barrier installed directly onto your roof deck. It serves as a critical protective layer between your shingles and the roof deck, extending the life of your roof and preventing damage from environmental factors like water infiltration, mold growth, and extreme weather. Without proper underlayment, your roof could be vulnerable to leaks, reduced lifespan, and costly repairs.
Two main types of roof underlayment dominate the market today—synthetic underlayment and felt. But what sets them apart? And which one should you trust to protect your home?
Understanding Felt Underlayment
Felt underlayment, often referred to as “tar paper,” has been a staple in roofing for decades. It’s made of a mix of asphalt and natural or synthetic fibers, offering a layer of water resistance and cushioning for your shingles.
Advantages of Felt Underlayment
- Cost-effective: Felt underlayment tends to be less expensive upfront, making it an appealing option for homeowners on a budget.
- Tried and Tested: With a long history in the roofing industry, felt is a proven option that’s trusted by traditionalists and roofing contractors alike.
- Adequate Protection: It offers basic water resistance and protection against leaks when properly installed.
Drawbacks of Felt Underlayment
- Durability Issues: Felt is prone to tearing, especially in high winds or during installation. Its durability can also vary significantly depending on thickness.
- Shorter Lifespan: Over time, exposure to heat and moisture can cause felt to deteriorate, requiring replacement sooner than its synthetic counterpart.
- Heavier Weight: Felt is generally heavier to transport and handle, which may affect the installation process.
Felt underlayment remains a dependable option, but its limitations often make it less appealing for homeowners who want long-term protection and enhanced performance.
What Is Synthetic Underlayment?
Synthetic underlayment is a more modern innovation, made from durable polymers like polypropylene or polyethylene. Its strength and resistance to various environmental factors have made it an increasingly popular choice among homeowners and roofing contractors.
Advantages of Synthetic Underlayment
- Superior Durability: Synthetic underlayment is resistant to tearing, even in extreme weather or if it’s exposed for long periods.
- Lightweight: Its lighter weight makes it easier for roofing contractors to install quickly and efficiently.
- Water Resistance: It provides excellent protection against water infiltration, reducing the risk of mold growth and protecting the roof deck.
- UV Resistance: Synthetic underlayment can withstand exposure to sunlight without deteriorating, which is especially helpful during lengthy installation projects.
Drawbacks of Synthetic Underlayment
- Higher Initial Cost: The quality and benefits of synthetic underlayment come with a slightly higher price tag compared to felt.
- Requires Proper Installation: To perform at its best, synthetic underlayment must be installed correctly by experienced roofing contractors.
Synthetic underlayment represents the next generation of roofing technology. While its upfront costs may be higher, its long-term benefits often outweigh the initial investment.
Synthetic Underlayment vs Felt Underlayment
How do synthetic underlayment and felt stack up against each other? Below is a direct comparison to help you weigh their advantages and disadvantages.
Durability Comparison
- Synthetic Underlayment: Highly tear-resistant and built to last. Perfect for areas with extreme weather conditions.
- Felt Underlayment: Less durable, prone to ripping and degradation over time when exposed to water or sunlight.
Weather and Mold Protection
- Synthetic Underlayment: Offers superior resistance to water and mold growth, keeping your roof deck dry and sturdy.
- Felt Underlayment: Provides basic water protection but is more susceptible to leaks and mold buildup, especially if not installed correctly.
Installation Factors
- Synthetic Underlayment: Lightweight and easier to install but requires professional expertise for proper installation.
- Felt Underlayment: Heavier and prone to wrinkles during installation, which can compromise its effectiveness.
Cost Considerations
- Synthetic Underlayment: Higher initial cost but requires less frequent replacement, making it a good long-term investment.
- Felt Underlayment: Budget-friendly upfront but may cost more over time due to its shorter lifespan and need for repairs or replacement.
How to Choose the Right Option for Your Home
Still unsure about which underlayment is best for your roof? Here are the key factors to consider when making your decision.
🌤️ Climate Conditions
If you live in an area prone to heavy rain, snow, or high winds, synthetic underlayment is typically the better choice due to its durability and weather resistance.
💵 Budget
For homeowners looking to save on upfront costs, felt may be a viable option. However, keep in mind the potential costs of future repairs or replacements.
⏰ Longevity
Synthetic underlayment is ideal if your priority is long-term performance, as it generally requires less maintenance and lasts longer than felt.
🛠️ Installation Quality
Proper installation is crucial, regardless of the material you choose. Partnering with an experienced roofing contractor ensures your underlayment performs as expected.
5. Project Timeline
If your roof installation or repair may experience delays, synthetic underlayment could be a safer choice since it can withstand prolonged exposure to the elements.
5 Steps to Ensure Proper Installation of Roof Underlayment
Installing roof underlayment correctly is critical to ensuring your roof performs at its best. Follow these steps for proper installation:
- Start with a Clean Roof Deck: Ensure the roof deck is free from debris, dirt, and any loose nails or screws. A clean, smooth surface helps the underlayment adhere properly.
- Choose the Right Material: Whether you select felt or synthetic underlayment, make sure the material is compatible with your chosen roofing materials.
- Overlap Sheets Correctly: When installing underlayment, sheets must overlap properly to prevent gaps that could allow water infiltration.
- Secure with Roofing Nails or Staples: Use the appropriate fasteners as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure your underlayment stays secure in all weather conditions.
- Inspect Before Shingling: Before laying down shingles, inspect the underlayment for any wrinkles, tears, or gaps that need fixing.
Proper installation ensures the underlayment serves as an effective barrier, protecting your home for years to come.
Why Trust Indy Roof and Restoration for Your Roofing Needs?
When it comes to safeguarding your home, you deserve a partner who understands the intricacies of roofing. At Indy Roof and Restoration, we’ve built a reputation for excellence, combining expertise, high-quality materials, and exceptional customer service.
Here’s why homeowners trust us:
- Experienced, certified roofing contractors.
- Use of premium materials for lasting results.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- Commitment to customer satisfaction.
Elevate the longevity and functionality of your roof today. Contact Indy Roof and Restoration to learn more about the best roof underlayment options for your home.
