When getting a new roof, a homeowner needs to decide whether they want shingles, metal, or tiles, but this is just the beginning of the process to get the right roof for you. Underneath your roofing is underlayment, a protective layer of material that prevents moisture and debris. There are many types of underlayment available, with the two most common being synthetic and felt. Each type has its pros and cons, but which roofing underlayment is the right fit for your roofing needs?
What Is Synthetic Roofing Underlayment?
Synthetic underlayment is a newer option made of engineered materials called polyethylene or polypropylene polymers. These durable polymers are UV, moisture, and abrasion resistant, making synthetic underlayment last longer than traditional felt.
The Advantages of Synthetic Roof Underlayment
Because of its numerous advantages and features, it has grown in popularity, and more roofing companies are switching to or recommending synthetic.
Longevity
On average, synthetic underlayment lasts between 25 and 50 years and has longer extended warranties. GAF’s FeltBuster and CertainTeed’s RoofRunner AIR offer a lifetime warranty on their synthetic underlayment.
Easy Installation
Synthetic underlayment is a lightweight material that is resistant to tearing and has an anti-slip coating that allows roofers to walk safely during installation. These features result in roofers installing roofs more effectively and efficiently, saving time and reducing labor costs.
Moisture & Damage-Resistant
Polyethylene polymer is a thermoplastic that is very flexible and highly water resistant. Polypropylene polymers are also thermoplastics but slightly stiffer than polyethylene, preventing UV and heat damage. When combined, they form the ultimate protective roofing underlayment.
Consistently High-Quality
Because synthetic underlayment is an engineered material, it uses high-tech manufacturing processes that standardize the quality and prevent unevenness in each roll.
Problems with Synthetic Roof Underlayment
Although synthetic roofing has multiple advantages, there are some disadvantages, with expense being the biggest.
Expense
The cost varies between brands but is anywhere between .15¢ and .80¢ per square foot, while felt is typically .05¢ to .50¢ per square foot. Synthetic underlayment is a long-term investment with higher upfront costs but potentially lower costs in the future due to its damage resistance.
Proper Installation
One amazing benefit of synthetic underlayment is its strong water-resistant properties. However, this means proper installation is crucial. When installed improperly, it can trap water between the underlayment and the sheathing, which can cause costly damage. So, choosing a trustworthy roofer who will do it right the first time is vital.
What Is Felt Roofing Underlayment?
Felt paper is asphalt-saturated felt combined with organic materials such as wood pulp, cellulose fiber, and non-organic materials like fiberglass.
The Advantages of Felt Roofing Underlayment
Felt is the old faithful regarding underlayment, as it has been around for over 150 years. It is widely available and is the most common underlayment, so roofers are very comfortable with installation.
Breathability
The organic materials used in felt make it more breathable, allowing moisture to escape if trapped underneath.
Lower Costs
Due to its less involved manufacturing process and readily available materials, it is more affordable. Roofing budgets are a large constraint amongst homeowners, which is why felt is the most common underlayment.
Smaller Environmental Impact
The organic materials in felt will naturally biodegrade over time compared to the thermoplastics used in synthetic underlayments. However, many felt underlayments that are more environmentally friendly tend to be on the pricier side.
Problems with Felt Roofing Underlayment
While felt is trusted among many because it’s been around a long time, many cons lead to more roofers turning to synthetic.
Lifespan
The biodegradable nature of felt means it has a significantly shorter lifespan. The breathable components of felt allow moisture to escape, but it also absorbs moisture just as easily, especially during seasons of continuous rain. The average lifespan for felt is between 15 and 20 years, compared to synthetic, which is 25 to 50 years. So, what may appear as cheaper upfront can have more expenses in the long term from normal wear and tear.
Heavy & Bulky
A 23-pound roll of GAF FeltBuster provides approximately 1,000 square feet, while a 56-pound roll of felt underlayment only contains 200 square feet. This results in more “toing and froing” as roofers cannot carry as much, which means it takes more time to install and can be more dangerous as roofers deal with heavier weights.
Choosing the Right Roofers
For both types of underlayment, proper installation is vital for longevity. In Florida, extreme weather and hurricanes will easily tear up and damage roofs with messy and unsecured shingles, underlayment, and sheathing. At McFall Roofing, we have over 40 years of experience in Gainesville.
We understand the importance of feeling safe in your home. To ensure only the best, we provide “Satisfaction Guaranteed,” where the final payment is not due until the customer is completely satisfied. Experience the McFall Difference and give us a call to learn more at (352) 415-9098.