How to Choose Your Roofing Underlayment

How to Choose Your Roofing Underlayment

When it comes to roofing, the underlayment is a crucial component that ensures the overall performance and longevity of the roof. Selecting the right underlayment can significantly impact the durability, weather resistance, and efficiency of your roofing system. In this comprehensive guide on how to choose your roofing underlayment, we’ll delve into the factors to consider when making this important decision, helping you make an informed choice that suits your specific needs and conditions.

Types of Roof Underlayment

Understanding the different types of roof underlayment is essential in learning how to choose your roofing underlayment. The market offers three primary types: felt, rubberized asphalt, and synthetic. Each type has distinct characteristics and benefits:

Felt Underlayment: This traditional option, also known as tar paper, is typically made from an organic or fiberglass base saturated with asphalt. It’s economical and widely used in various roofing applications. However, felt underlayment is less durable compared to synthetic options and can tear easily, especially when exposed to moisture for extended periods. When considering how to choose your roofing underlayment, felt may be suitable for budget-conscious projects.

Rubberized Asphalt Underlayment: Known for its superior waterproofing properties, rubberized asphalt underlayment is ideal for areas prone to heavy rain or ice dams. It features a self-sealing property around nails and other fasteners, providing an additional layer of protection. Although it’s more expensive and challenging to install, its durability and waterproofing capabilities make it a worthy investment for critical roofing areas.

Synthetic Underlayment: Made from polypropylene or polyethylene, synthetic underlayments are lightweight, durable, and resistant to tearing and UV rays. They offer excellent protection against weather elements and are becoming increasingly popular in modern roofing applications. Synthetic underlayments are also easier to install due to their larger roll sizes and lighter weight. When deciding how to choose your roofing underlayment, synthetic options are often a top choice due to their balance of cost and performance.

Climate and Weather Conditions

One of the most crucial factors in how to choose your roofing underlayment is the climate and weather conditions in your area. Different underlayments perform better in specific environments:

Heavy Rainfall or Snow: In regions with heavy rainfall or snow, durability and waterproofing are paramount. Rubberized asphalt underlayments excel in these conditions due to their superior waterproofing properties and self-sealing capabilities. High-quality synthetic underlayments are also a good choice, offering excellent protection against moisture and UV rays.

Hot Climates: For hot climates, it’s essential to select an underlayment with good UV resistance and heat tolerance. Synthetic underlayments typically perform well in such conditions, maintaining their integrity and performance even under prolonged sun exposure.

Roof Slopes

The slope of your roof also influences how to choose your roofing underlayment. Different slopes may require different types of underlayment:

Steep Slopes: Steeper roofs can typically use lighter underlayment’s, as water and snow will run off quickly, reducing the risk of pooling. Synthetic underlayment’s are often preferred for steep slopes due to their lightweight and ease of installation.

Flat or Low Slope Roofs: For flatter roofs, more robust and waterproof underlayments are necessary to prevent water pooling and seepage. Rubberized asphalt underlayments offer excellent protection in these scenarios, ensuring the roof remains waterti

Cost Considerations

Budget is a significant factor in any roofing project, and understanding how to choose your roofing underlayment involves evaluating cost options:

Felt Underlayment: This is the most economical option, suitable for budget-conscious projects. However, it’s important to weigh the initial savings against potential maintenance and replacement costs in the long run.

Synthetic Underlayment: Moderately priced, synthetic underlayments offer a good balance between cost and performance. Their durability and ease of installation can result in long-term savings.

Rubberized Asphalt Underlayment: The most expensive option, rubberized asphalt provides exceptional durability and waterproofing. While the upfront cost is higher, it can offer significant savings by reducing the need for repairs and replacements.

Installation and Ease of Use

The ease of installation is another critical factor in how to choose your roofing underlayment, especially if you’re considering a DIY project or looking to reduce labor costs:

Synthetic Underlayment: Known for its ease of installation, synthetic underlayments are lightweight and come in larger rolls, covering more area with fewer seams. This reduces installation time and potential leak points.

Felt Underlayment: Although economical, felt underlayment can be more challenging to install, especially in adverse weather conditions. It can tear easily, requiring careful handling and additional labor.

Rubberized Asphalt Underlayment: While providing excellent protection, rubberized asphalt can be difficult to work with due to its weight and stickiness. Professional installation is often recommended to ensure proper application and performance.

Durability and Longevity

Durability and longevity are vital for ensuring the long-term performance of your roof:

Synthetic Underlayment: Offering superior durability, synthetic underlayments can withstand harsh weather conditions and UV exposure. Their lifespan is typically longer than felt, making them a reliable choice for long-term protection.

Rubberized Asphalt Underlayment: Known for its resilience, rubberized asphalt provides excellent longevity, especially in areas prone to severe weather. Its self-sealing properties around fasteners enhance its durability.

Felt Underlayment: While less durable than synthetic or rubberized options, high-quality felt can still offer decent protection if installed and maintained properly.

Manufacturer’s Warranty

A good manufacturer’s warranty can provide peace of mind, indicating confidence in the product’s quality and performance. When selecting an underlayment, consider products that come with comprehensive warranties, ensuring you’re covered in case of defects or issues.

Compatibility with Roofing Materials

Ensure the underlayment you choose is compatible with the type of roofing material you’re using:

Asphalt Shingles: Most underlayments are compatible with asphalt shingles, but synthetic options often provide better performance and longevity.

Metal Roofing: For metal roofs, synthetic underlayments are recommended due to their durability and ability to withstand temperature fluctuations.

Cedar Shakes: Rubberized asphalt underlayments are ideal for cedar shake roofs, providing excellent waterproofing and protection against moisture.

Building Codes and Regulations

Adhering to local building codes and regulations is essential when selecting a roof underlayment. Different regions may have specific requirements based on climate and environmental conditions. Always check local codes to ensure compliance and avoid potential issues during inspections.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

Choosing a reputable brand known for quality products can significantly impact the performance and reliability of your underlayment. Researching reviews and seeking recommendations from professionals can provide valuable insights into the best options available.

Choose Your Roofing Underlayment

Owens Corning offers high-performance self-adhered ice and water barriers and synthetic underlayments that provide complete protection for the roof deck, ensuring durability and reliability during and after installation. Their products are trusted by contractors, made in the USA, and come with a matching limited warranty, offering superior weather resistance and increased walkability with Sure-Foot® Technology.

Synthetic Underlayments

• Titanium UDL25: Creates a layer of defense for the roof deck that’s 14× stronger and 30% faster to install than #30 felt.
• Titanium UDL30: Supports the roof deck with a highly engineered, mechanically attached barrier that’s 20× stronger and 30% faster to install than #30 felt.
• Titanium UDL50: Offers the ultimate roof deck protection with a synthetic barrier that’s 25× stronger and 30% faster to install than #30 felt.
• RHINOROOF: Supplies protection that’s 12× stronger than #30 felt for superior wind resistance and durability through heavy foot traffic and adverse weather conditions.

Rubberized Asphalt Underlayments

• Titanium PSU30: Protects against the elements with a modified rubberized asphalt ice and water barrier suitable for all roof types.
• RHINOROOF GRANULATED: Provides an essential waterproof barrier that acts as a second line of defense against moisture and damage.

Check out our page on Roofing Underlayments for more information.