Many people only consider the final outer thin layer of roofing when they think of roofing. Whether or not to use asphalt shingles or metal roofing. They may not consider underlayment at all.
The shingles are sandwiched between the roof sheathing, or roof deck, which is usually plywood decking or OSB (Oriented Strand Board), and the underlayment.
The roof deck is installed first, and then the underlayment is laid directly on top of it. It provides additional protection against weather and absorb moisture infiltration to which your roof is subjected.
There are two main types of roofing underlayment: synthetic underlayment and felt underlayment.
To help you make the best decision for roofing underlayment, we’ve put together a Quick Guide to Synthetic vs Felt Underlayment in Texas.
Felt Underlayment
Traditional felt underlayment has been used in most residential and commercial roofing systems for over a century, and its materials makeup has remained largely unchanged.
Felt roofing underlayment is made from recycled materials, so it is an environmentally friendly option. It is also very durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. Felt roofing underlayment is available in different thicknesses, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. It is also available in different colors, so you can match it to the color of your roof. Felt roofing underlayment is easy to install and it is very affordable. So, if you are looking for a roofing underlayment that is durable, affordable, and easy to install, then felt roofing underlayment is the perfect choice for you.
Synthetic Roof Underlayment
Synthetic underlayment is made from synthetic materials like polypropylene or polyethylene. It’s stronger and more durable than felt, and it resists UV damage and high temperatures better. Synthetic underlayment is also lighter and easier to work with than felt.
However, synthetic underlayment can be more expensive than felt. And because it’s a relatively new product, there’s not as much data available on its long-term performance.
So, which type of roof underlayment is right for your next project?
Synthetic underlayment vs asphalt felt
Asphalt felt roof underlayments have been the standard in the roofing industry for many years. However, synthetic roofing underlayments have gained popularity in recent years due to their superior performance and longer life span.
Here are some of the advantages of synthetic roofing underlayment materials over asphalt felt:
- Synthetic roofing underlayment is lighter than asphalt felt, making it easier to work with and less likely to cause damage to the roof deck during installation.
- Synthetic roofing underlayment is more resistant to tearing in high winds and punctures than asphalt felt, making it ideal for areas where there is potential for foot traffic or other types of mechanical damage and is extremely durable.
- Synthetic roofing underlayment is more resistant to UV radiation, meaning it will not break down as quickly as traditional felt roofing underlayment felt when exposed to the elements.
- Synthetic roofing underlayment is more breathable than asphalt saturated felt underlayment, allowing moisture to escape from the roof deck and preventing the buildup of condensation that can lead to roof leaks when it’s installed correctly.
- Synthetic roofing underlayment is available in a variety of colors, making it easier to match with the color of your roof shingles.
- Synthetic roofing underlayment has a longer lifespan than asphalt felt, meaning it will not need to be replaced as often.
- Synthetic roofing underlayment is recyclable, making it a more environmentally-friendly option than asphalt felt.
If you’re considering a new roof for your home or business, be sure to ask Bearded Brothers Roofing as your roofing contractor about the benefits of synthetic roofing underlayment. You may find that it’s the best option for your needs.
The Benefits of Saturated Felt Underlayment Over Synthetic Underlayment
Both have their benefits, but in many cases, saturated felt underlayment is the better choice for roofing contractors and homeowners alike.
Here are just a few of the reasons why:
- Saturated felt is more durable. Many synthetic roofing underlayments are made of a variety of materials, including plastic, rubber, and fiberglass. These materials are not as durable as felt, and they are more likely to tear or be damaged by foot traffic during roof installation.
- Saturated felt is less expensive. Synthetic underlayments are not used as often as felt, given that it costs more per sq ft than the traditional felt.
- Felt underlayments provide better protection against wind-driven rain and ice dams. Felt underlayments are more effective at stopping water leaks than synthetic underlayments, making them a better choice for areas that experience severe weather conditions.
- Felt underlayments are easier to install. Because synthetic underlayments are less durable, they are also more difficult to install. Felt underlayments can be installed using staples or nails, while synthetic underlayments often require special adhesive tape or fasteners.
- Felt underlayments are more environmentally friendly. Synthetic underlayments are made of petroleum-based products, which can be harmful to the environment. Felt underlayments are made of natural materials like wood fibers, making them a more sustainable choice for roofing projects.
Conclusion
You should now know which underlayment is best for you. However, your roof’s underlayment is only one of several important roofing materials that comprise your entire roofing system.
Every homeowner probably believes that they do not need to understand all of the different types of roofing materials. However, they account for a significant portion of the cost of your new roof.
So, why wouldn’t you want to know exactly what you’re about to pay for when you get a replacement?
When it comes to roofing underlayment, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best type of underlayment for your project will depend on a number of factors, including the climate, the roofing material, and the budget.
If you’re roofing in a hot, sunny climate like Texas, synthetic underlayment is a good choice. It’s more durable and has the highest resistance to UV damage than felt, so it will last longer.
However, if you’re on a tight budget, felt underlayment may be the better option. It’s less expensive than synthetic and it’s been used successfully for many years. Just keep in mind that it may not last as long as synthetic in a hot, sunny climate.
Whether you want to do it yourself or hire Bearded Brothers Roofing, this information should help you make the right choice.