Synthetic vs. Felt Underlayment on a Residential Roof

Posted on: 19 August 2021

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One of the most important parts of your roof is the underlayment. This exists with the purpose of providing an additional layer of defense. The underlayment can be made using felt or synthetic materials. Residential roofing services can help you decide which option is best for you.

Felt Roofing Underlayment

This is the oldest type of underlayment and is created when fiberglass or paper is saturated with asphalt. No. 30 is the best type of felt underlayment because it is thicker and is less prone to tearing. It provides better insulation. Compared to synthetic underlayment, a felt underlayment is less expensive. 

However, there are several reasons why a felt underlayment can backfire. The underlayment should not be exposed to moisture because it can wrinkle and the shingles will not lay flat. They are more likely to tear. The surface is more slippery and this makes it harder to install. Also, the weight of this type of underlayment leads to less material on each roll.

Synthetic Roofing Underlayment

Newer roofing underlayment options have been created as a way to offer stronger moisture resistance. Their longevity is the result of the long-lasting polymers they are made out of. However, the performance of the synthetic underlayment will vary depending on the specific product you choose. Fortunately, a trusted residential roofing service can guide you through your options.

The synthetic roofing material will be much tougher than the felt roofing material. It's safer to use, repels water more easily, and can be installed more quickly. You will not have to worry about it wearing out as quickly due to exposure to UV rays and moisture. 

Why Your Residential Roofing Service Might Recommend a Synthetic Underlayment

The synthetic underlayment is safer to install because the surface is slip-resistant. This means that it will be easier for the residential roofing service to walk on it. Indicators are put in place so that the contractor can more easily see where fasteners should be put in place. This makes it easier to install the underlayment safely, accurately, and more quickly.

Because the synthetic underlayment is lighter, it will require less work from your contractor. With more material per roll, the underlayment can be installed much more quickly. Therefore, the contractor can climb up the ladder with fewer trips. This leads to fewer mistakes and also allows the contractor to install the underlayment much more quickly and affordably.