Different Types Of Roofing Underlayment (2024)

Your roof does more than just cover your house – it’s a complete system that protects your home from the elements. While most people focus on the visible shingles, there’s a crucial layer underneath them called the roofing underlayment. This hidden layer acts as a secondary defense against moisture when water manages to get past the shingles. Whether you’re taking on a new construction project or replacing an old roof, selecting the appropriate underlayment is just as crucial as choosing your shingles.

In this article, we’ll explore the different types of roof underlayment to help you make an informed decision for your home.

What Is Roofing Underlayment?  

Roofing underlayment is an important protective layer between your roof structure and the shingles. It keeps your home safe from water and snow damage by acting as a barrier between the outer materials and the attic space.  Even if your shingles are damaged or worn over time, the underlayment ensures that moisture doesn’t seep into your home, protecting it from leaks and water damage. As a protective layer of your roof, an underlayment also helps seal air gaps for improved energy efficiency and enhances the overall durability of your home. 

Types Of Underlayment 

Just like any other roof component, there are many types of underlayment available to suit different needs. Here are some of the most widely used underlayments in roofing systems:

Asphalt-Saturated Felt

Asphalt-saturated felt, or tar paper is one of the oldest and most common types of underlayment. It’s made by saturating organic or fiberglass material with asphalt to create a water-resistant layer. If you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-install option, this might work for you. However, it doesn’t hold up well in extreme weather, and it can tear easily when exposed to high winds or heavy rainfall. It’s a basic option, best suited for homes in moderate climates with less severe weather conditions.

Pros

👉 Asphalt-saturated felt is one of the most affordable types of roofing underlayments available for a roofing system. You can always opt for this underlayment if you are on a tight budget. 

👉 It’s simple to work with and widely used by roofers, making it a common choice for many homes. Installation is straightforward and doesn’t require special tools or techniques.

👉 It provides decent water resistance, which is enough for homes in areas with mild weather.

Cons

👉 This material can tear, especially during installation or in windy, stormy conditions. This makes it less reliable in severe weather.

👉 Compared to newer materials like synthetic underlayment, asphalt felt doesn’t last as long and may need to be replaced sooner.

Synthetic Underlayment

Synthetic underlayment is a newer, more advanced option made from plastic polymers like polypropylene or polyester. It’s much more durable than asphalt-saturated felt, being tear-resistant and lightweight. You might choose synthetic underlayment if you want something stronger and longer-lasting. Though it is more expensive than felt, its durability, resistance to harmful effects of UV rays, and easy installation process make it a popular underlayment for many homeowners.  

Pros

👉 Synthetic underlayment is made from durable polymers, making it much tougher than asphalt felt. It won’t tear easily, even in harsh weather.

👉 It is durable, lightweight, and easy to handle during installation. This makes it a practical choice for large roofing projects.

👉 If your roof is exposed to the sun for long periods before shingles are installed, synthetic underlayment offers extra protection from UV rays, preventing damage.

Cons

👉 Synthetic underlayment is a more expensive material than felt, which may not fit every budget, especially for larger projects.

👉 Some types of synthetic underlayment have a slick surface, making it harder to walk on during installation, which can be a safety concern for roofers.

Peel and Stick Underlayment

Peel and stick underlayment, also known as rubberized asphalt underlayment, is a self-adhering waterproof barrier that is easy to install and offers strong protection. You don’t need nails or fasteners, as it sticks directly to the roof deck, creating a tight seal. This type of underlayment is particularly effective in preventing water from seeping into vulnerable areas, such as roof valleys, eaves, and around chimneys. It’s a great choice if you want a DIY-friendly option that doesn’t require additional tools.

Pros

👉 Peel and stick underlayment is self-adhesive, so you don’t need nails or fasteners to install it. This makes it a great choice for DIY homeowners who want an easy installation process.

👉 It creates a watertight seal when applied to the roof deck, preventing water from entering your home. It’s particularly good for sealing around vulnerable areas like chimneys, valleys, and eaves.

👉 This underlayment is commonly used in parts of the roof that are more prone to leaks, adding extra protection where it’s needed most.

Cons

👉 It’s more expensive than traditional asphalt felt, but its ease of installation and waterproof properties may make the extra cost worth it.

👉 Once it sticks to the roof deck, it’s very difficult to remove, which could make repairs more challenging if you need to access the roof deck later.

Factors To Consider Before You Install New Underlayment

Before choosing an underlayment for your home, consider the following factors to ensure you make the right decision: 

1. Climate Considerations

When it comes to selecting an underlayment, your local weather patterns should guide your choice. If your home faces frequent heavy rain or snow, rubberized asphalt underlayment offers the best protection against moisture penetration. Those living in moderate climate zones will find synthetic underlayment provides an excellent balance of protection and value. In consistently dry areas, traditional felt underlayment might serve your needs perfectly well while keeping costs down.

2. Budget Factors

Your budget also plays an important role in selecting the right underlayment for your roof. Traditional felt underlayment stands out as the most budget-friendly option, making it attractive for cost-conscious homeowners. Synthetic underlayment occupies the middle ground, offering enhanced durability at a moderate price point. While rubberized asphalt tops the price range, its superior protection and longevity often justify the higher initial investment for many homeowners.

3. Installation Requirements

The complexity of installation can significantly impact both your timeline and overall costs. Felt underlayment is relatively simple to install, requiring basic tools and experience, though it can be vulnerable to tearing during installation. Synthetic underlayment offers easier handling with its lightweight nature and slip-resistant surface, making it safer for installers to work with. 

4. Roof Slope and Structure

The pitch and design of your roof directly affect which underlayment will work best. Steep roofs with slopes greater than 4:12 can work with most underlayment types since water runs off quickly. However, low-slope roofs (between 2:12 and 4:12) require more waterproof underlayment options, typically self-adhering products, to prevent water from backing up under the shingles. 

Conclusion 

Choosing the right roofing underlayment is an important decision that affects your home’s protection for years. While felt underlayment has been a top choice for many years, newer synthetic and peel and stick options offer improved protection and durability. Consider your climate, budget, and long-term plans when making your choice. 

If you are looking to replace your roof in Wisconsin, look no further than the team of Prestige Roofing. We use top-quality underlayments manufactured by leading brands in the industry. 

Call us at (920) 791-0414 and consult with qualified roofing professionals who can evaluate your specific situation and recommend the best underlayment for your home. 

FAQ