Watkins Construction & Roofing is here to answer your questions “Is felt underlayment or synthetic underlayment better?” When it comes to roofing, most people only pay attention to the thin outer layer of their roofs. They simply ignore the backbone of their roofing systems – the underlayment. Roofing shingles are placed between the underlayment and the roof sheathing (the roof deck is usually made of OSB or plywood).
The roof deck is installed before everything else. Then, a suitable underlayment is installed directly over it. The underlayment protects your roof’s deck and interiors from extreme weather elements and water infiltration.
Roofing underlayment comes in two main types, namely: felt underlayment and synthetic underlayment. To make an informed decision regarding your roofing underlayment, you need to know the main differences between these two options. So, with that in mind, we have prepared this brief guide to help you accomplish exactly this goal. So, without further ado, let’s dive right in.
What Is Felt Underlayment?
Conventional felt underlayment is a popular choice for the roofs of residential and commercial properties. It has been used in the roofing industry for centuries. Surprisingly, the constituents of this underlayment have remained the same over the same. Since a felt underlayment is manufactured from recycled materials, it is a very eco-friendly option.
Furthermore, felt underlayment is very durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions quite well. It comes in a variety of thicknesses and colors. This means you can easily select the one to fit your precise needs and style preferences. Lastly, felt underlayment is more affordable and easier to install than other options. So, if you’re looking for the right balance of affordability, durability, and ease of installation, felt underlayment is an ideal choice.
What Is Synthetic Roof Underlayment?
As the name suggests, this underlayment is manufactured using synthetic materials such as polyethylene and polypropylene. That’s why it offers superior strength and durability as compared to felt. It is also more resistant to UV rays and high temperatures than felt. Moreover, synthetic underlayment is very lightweight and easier to handle. The only downside to this underlayment is that it is significantly costlier than traditional options.
Why choose Saturated Felt Underlayment?
When it comes to durability, saturated felt is a proven choice. Since synthetic underlayment is manufactured using different types of materials, such as plastic, fiberglass, or rubber, the durability of these materials is not at par with tried and tested felt. These materials are highly likely to get damaged due to foot traffic while installing a roof.
Saturated felt is more affordable. Synthetic underlayment is not a popular choice among homeowners and businesses because of its high cost.
Felt underlayment offers superior protection against the elements including ice damming and wind-driven rain. A Felt underlayment is more resistant to water leaks than a synthetic underlayment, making it a great option for areas that receive extreme weather conditions.
Felt underlayment is relatively easy to install. A Felt underlayment can be installed using nails and staples. On the other hand, a synthetic underlayment needs fasteners or special adhesive tape.
Why Choose Synthetic Roofing Underlayment?
If you’re looking for lighter roofing underlayment, synthetic is the way to go. It is lighter, easier to handle, and does not cause any damage to the roofing deck while being installed.
Synthetic underlayment can better resist tearing and punctures during storms and high winds. This makes it perfect for regions with high foot traffic and extreme weather conditions. It is an incredibly durable underlayment option.
Synthetic underlayment provides better protection from UV radiation, which means it does not deteriorate as easily as felt underlayment on exposure to heat and sun rays.
A synthetic underlayment is a breathable option, meaning that it doesn’t trap moisture. It allows the moisture to escape continuously which can prevent condensation and many moisture-related issues in your home.
Synthetic roofing underlayment comes in a huge array of styles and colors. So, you can easily choose a color that matches your roofing shingles and exterior décor perfectly.
The lifespan of synthetic underlayment is much longer than traditional asphalt felt. So, you don’t have to replace it as frequently.
A synthetic roofing underlayment is an eco-friendly option.
The Way Forward
When it comes to choosing a suitable roofing underlayment, you need to consider several factors such as your roofing material, your budget, and your local climate.
Watkins Construction and Roofing can provide you with the help you need. Getting in touch with us can be done by calling us at 251-299-8151. We service areas in Gulf Shores, Spanish Fort, Foley, Fairhope, Robertsdale, and Orange Beach, AL.
