Which is Better Synthetic Underlayment or Asphalt Felt Underlayment

by Dalton Kelly Marketing

A new roof is a significant investment and if you want to make the most of it, you need to choose the best products and services you can afford. Underlayment is one of the key components of any roofing system that plays a vital role in determining the overall lifespan and performance of a roof. To make an informed choice, you should know what exactly an underlayment is. Secondly, you should know the difference between a Synthetic and Felt Roof Underlayment. So, let’s get started.

What Is Roofing Underlayment?

A roofing underlayment is installed between the roof decking (OSB or plywood) and the shingle layer. Installed right over the roof deck, a roof underlayment provides extra protection to your home against moisture, water infiltration, and extreme weather elements.

It also keeps your roof protected from rain, wind, and snow. This means a high-quality underlayment can help prevent leaks and water damage to your home. If installed properly, a roofing underlayment can help make your home safer, more energy-efficient, and more comfortable.

Synthetic Roof Underlayment vs. Felt Underlayment

What is felt Roofing Underlayment?

It is a traditional underlayment that consists of an asphalt-saturated fiberglass mat or paper. As one of the most widely used and oldest underlayment options out there, felt underlayment comes in a variety of strength levels and thicknesses. The thicker ones are usually more expensive because of their high strength and less susceptibility to tearing or ripping.

Advantages of felt Roofing Underlayment

Felt underlayment is an affordable option, which is why it is still extremely popular among homeowners.

Here are some of the advantages of felt roofing underlayment:

Affordable
Ease of installation
Breathable construction

Cons of felt Roofing Underlayment

While felt underlayment is a cost-effective option, it has some limitations. One of its main disadvantages is that it can easily wear down if exposed to extreme elements for a prolonged period. This can significantly reduce its moisture resistance and overall effectiveness.

Here’s a list of major disadvantages of felt underlayment:

Susceptible to tearing when exposed to extreme elements
Attracts water, so it is prone to wrinkles and buckling
Felt is heavier than synthetic underlayment, so the installation can be more difficult
Slippery and damage-prone surface especially during installation
It may not be suitable for roofs with high boot traffic

What Is Synthetic Underlayment?

Synthetic roofing underlayment is manufactured using long-lasting and extremely durable polymers. So, it offers great reliability, performance, and longevity. Due to its high durability and moisture resistance, it is becoming the underlayment of choice for homeowners and roofing contractors in Folsom LA. When installed by experienced and trusted roofers, synthetic underlayment provides optimal protection against the elements and common roofing issues.

Advantages of Synthetic Underlayment

Synthetic roofing underlayment is incredibly easy and faster to install. It is one of the toughest underlayment options on the market. Synthetic roofing underlayment is way more durable and tear-resistant than felt. Let’s look at some of the advantages of synthetic underlayment:

Easier and faster to install
Highly water-resistant
Durable and solid construction with exceptional tear resistance
Optimal protection from the UV rays, water infiltration, and high winds
Lightweight
High heat tolerance
Due to its ability to withstand high boot traffic, the installation is easier

Cons of Synthetic Underlayment

Synthetic roofing underlayment has a lot of advantages. But, to make the right choice, you need to keep in mind the cons of this type of underlayment as well. Here are some of the disadvantages of synthetic roofing underlayment.

Synthetic roofing underlayment is somewhat costlier than felt
The quality and longevity of synthetic underlayment can differ depending on the manufacturer

How to Choose the Best Underlayment for Your Roof?

It depends on your exact needs. So, if you’re looking for a cost-effective option, a felt underlayment is a good choice. On the other hand, if you want a more reliable, durable, and long-lasting underlayment, synthetic underlayment is a perfect option.

To know your best options, don’t hesitate to contact Magnolia Roofing. Give us a call at 985-200-4463 and schedule a FREE consultation today. We service areas in Mandeville, Folsom, Covington, Slidell, Madisonville, and Abita Springs, LA.