Best Roof Underlayment For Shingles (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best roof underlayment for shingles, then you’ve come to the right place. Choosing the right underlayment is a crucial part of installing a new roof or replacing an old one. It not only provides an additional layer of protection but also helps in maintaining the roof's longevity.
There are several factors that you need to consider before buying an underlayment. Firstly, the type of shingles you're using. Different types of shingles have different requirements for underlayment. Secondly, the location of your home. The underlayment should be able to withstand any harsh weather conditions your area may experience. Lastly, think about your budget. Underlayment prices vary, so it's essential to find one that works for you.
When it comes to choosing an underlayment, some questions may come to mind. Which is more important: the thickness of the underlayment or its material? Are there any eco-friendly options available? How does the underlayment affect the overall performance of my roof? By taking the time to research and ask these questions, you'll be able to make an informed decision about the best roof underlayment for shingles that suits your needs.
10 Best Roof Underlayment For Shingles
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This product is ideal for providing an extra layer of protection and insulation underneath roofing materials during the winter months.
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The product is ideal for protecting roofs from water and ice damage.
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It is ideal for providing a durable and long-lasting protective layer between roofing materials and the underlying structure.
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Ideal for providing a waterproof barrier and extra protection between roofing material and the underlying structure.
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5
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It is ideal as a strong and durable roofing underlayment that protects against water, ice, and wind damage.
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It is ideal for use as an underlayment for roofing systems.
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This product is ideal for use as roofing underlayment to protect the roof and prevent leaks.
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This product is ideal for underlayment and preventing ice build-up on roofs.
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Ideal for use as an underlayment for roofing projects to provide water-resistant protection and ventilation.
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This product is ideal for providing a waterproof barrier and protection against moisture and wind damage on roofs.
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1. Certainteed Winterguard Sand Underlayment (Single Roll)
Introducing the ultimate solution for preventing leaks caused by ice dams on your roof – the waterproof and ice-resistant barrier. Made from premium quality asphalt polymers, this barrier provides a vapor-tight seal that is designed to last.
This product is embedded with sand to enhance traction when applied, providing superior grip and stability. It is specifically designed for use in critical areas such as roof eaves, valleys, and as a waterproofing underlayment for low-slope shingle, metal (HT only), slate, and mechanically-fastened tile roofing applications.
The roll is 65ft long and 36in wide (3ft), providing a coverage of 195 square feet. It weighs 68 lbs and has a thickness of 60 mils. The dimensions and weight of the roll make it easy to handle and transport, while the thickness ensures maximum durability and protection.
This waterproof and ice-resistant barrier is the perfect solution for homeowners and contractors looking for a reliable and long-lasting solution to prevent leaks caused by ice dams. With its superior grip, waterproof properties, and durable construction, it is an investment that will pay off for years to come. So, protect your roof and your home with this top-of-the-line barrier.
2. Ft Synthetics Cobalt Ultra Ht Ice And Water Shield (Single Roll)
This product boasts a long shelf life and a Lifetime Limited Warranty, giving customers peace of mind and assurance in their purchase. It is specifically designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including high temperatures up to 300°F (149°C).
The installation temperature for this product is -4°F (-20°C) and above, making it suitable for use in a variety of climates. The roll length is 67ft.(20.4 M), the roll width is 36in.(91.4 CM), and the roll coverage is 2 square. The roll weighs 28 lbs. (13 KG) and has a thickness of 40 mils.
This product is compliant with nail sealable codes, meeting ASTM D1970 standards. It is also chemically resistant and compatible with low slope roofing materials such as EPDM and TPO. Customers can be confident in the durability and effectiveness of this product in a variety of roofing applications.
3. Hydroshield 50 Year Synthetic Underlayment Single Roll
Looking for a reliable and long-lasting roofing solution? Look no further than this top-quality roofing material. With a 50-year warranty and a guarantee to shed water, this roofing material is sure to provide peace of mind and protection for years to come.
With a pre-printed nailing pattern and overlap lines, installation is a breeze and can be completed quickly and efficiently. This roofing material offers coverage for up to 10 square feet, making it a great choice for a range of different roofing projects.
The roll width of this roofing material is 48 inches, while the roll length is an impressive 250 lineal feet. With a weight per square of 2.0 lbs, this roofing material is lightweight yet durable, and is compliant with a range of different codes and test methods, including ASTM D-4869, ASTM D-5034, ASTM D-226, ASTM D-4533, ASTM D-7349, and ICC ESR-4487.
Whether you're looking to replace an existing roof or install a brand new one, this roofing material is a smart choice. With its top-quality construction and impressive specifications, it offers unbeatable protection and durability, all backed by a 50-year warranty. So why wait? Choose this high-quality roofing material today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home or building is protected by the best.
4. Hydroshield 25 Year Synthetic Underlayment Single Roll
This high-quality roofing product comes with a 25-year warranty, ensuring that it will last for years to come. It is specifically designed to shed water, making it an ideal choice for those living in areas that experience heavy rainfall. The pre-printed nailing pattern and overlap lines make installation a breeze, saving you time and effort. With a coverage of 10 square feet, this roofing material is perfect for a variety of projects. The roll is 250 lineal feet in length and 48 inches in width, making it easy to work with. It is lightweight, with a weight of 1.8 lbs. per square foot. This product meets various test methods and compliant codes, including ASTM D-5034, ASTM D-226 Type I & II, ASTM D-4869, ASTM E-108, ICC-E S AC48, and ICC-CCRR-0330. You can be confident in the quality and reliability of this roofing material, making it an excellent choice for your next project.
5. Hydroshield Lifetime Synthetic Underlayment Single Roll
This roofing product comes with a limited lifetime warranty, making it a reliable and durable option for any final roof covering needs. It has a coverage of 10 square feet, with a roll width of 48 inches. The pre-printed nailing pattern and overlap lines make installation quick and efficient.
The roll length is 250 feet and the weight per square is 2.8 pounds. It meets the compliance codes of various test methods such as ASTM D-4869, ASTM D-5034, ASTM D-4533, ASTM D-226, ASTM D-779, and ICC ESR-4487. These specifications ensure that the product is of high quality and meets the necessary standards for roofing materials.
6. Mfm Ib3 Icebuster Self Adhering Underlayment (Single Roll, 3ft. X 65ft.)
Looking for a reliable and easy-to-install roofing solution? Look no further than this top-of-the-line roofing product. With its easy-to-use split release liner, this roofing material can be installed quickly and easily, making it a great choice for both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts alike.
Designed to be installed in fair weather conditions and in temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, this roofing material is perfect for use in a wide range of climates and environments. And with a minimum slope of just 2 inches per foot, it's the perfect choice for a variety of different roofing applications, from residential homes to commercial buildings and more.
One of the standout features of this roofing material is its self-sealing properties, which help to ensure a tight and secure fit around common fasteners. This not only helps to prevent leaks and other types of damage, but also helps to extend the lifespan of the roofing material itself.
With a roll weight of 65 pounds, a roll thickness of 50 mils, and a roll coverage of 195 square feet (or 1.95 squares), this roofing material is both durable and long-lasting. And with its sleek black color, it's sure to look great on any building.
What's more, this roofing material is fully compliant with a range of codes and regulations, including ASTM D 1970, Florida Building Code FL#11842.1, Miami-Dade County Approved, ICC-ES ESR-1737, LA County (LARC/LABC), State of California (CRC/CBC), and Texas Department of Insurance listed. So if you're looking for a high-quality roofing solution that you can rely on, be sure to check out this top-rated product today!
7. Typar Surround Vr Underlayment (Roofing) 48 In. X 250 Ft.
The SURROUND VR Underlayment is a top-of-the-line roofing material that offers a range of benefits for homeowners and contractors alike. Weighing up to seven times less than traditional 30# felt, it is a breeze to transport onto rooftops. Additionally, with five times more underlayment per roll and rolls that are 25 percent wider, it allows for faster coverage of roof decks.
One of the most notable advantages of the SURROUND VR Underlayment is its superior level of security. It meets the stringent requirements of ICC AC48-Acceptance Criteria for Roof Underlayment for Use in Severe Climate Areas. This means that it can withstand even the harshest weather conditions, ensuring that your roof remains safe and secure.
The SURROUND VR Underlayment is also incredibly strong, with a tear resistance that is 10 times greater than traditional 30# felt. This added strength ensures that it will not blow off during installation, eliminating the need for costly roof repairs.
Finally, the SURROUND VR Underlayment boasts a unique slip-resistant surface that is completely waterproof. This prevents any moisture issues, keeping your home dry and free from any potential water damage.
8. Certainteed Roof Runner Synthetic Underlayment (Single Roll)
RoofRunner is a reliable and durable roofing underlayment that provides an extra layer of protection against leaks. It is made of specially formulated UV-stabilized polymer films that are reinforced with a tough woven polyolefin layer. This unique combination of materials offers exceptional resistance against UV exposure, making it a reliable choice for use on roofs.
RoofRunner is designed to be easy to install, and requires minimal maintenance when installed according to the manufacturer's application instructions. It acts as a secondary barrier against leaks, providing homeowners with an added sense of security and protection against water damage.
This roofing underlayment comes in a convenient roll format, making it easy to transport and install. Each roll is 250 feet in length, 4 feet in width, and provides a typical net coverage of 937.5 square feet. With a roll weight of 23 pounds and a thickness of 7 mils, it is lightweight and easy to handle.
RoofRunner is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a reliable and durable roofing underlayment that offers exceptional protection against leaks. Its unique combination of materials makes it an ideal choice for roofs that are exposed to harsh weather conditions and strong UV rays. Install RoofRunner according to the manufacturer's instructions and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your roof is well-protected.
Best Roof Underlayment For Shingles FAQs
Are there any specific installation techniques for underlayment when installing shingle roofing?
Yes, there are specific installation techniques for underlayment when installing shingle roofing. Underlayment is a critical component of any shingle roofing system as it acts as a secondary layer of protection against moisture and wind-driven rain. Here are some key installation techniques to keep in mind:
1. Start at the bottom: Begin installing the underlayment at the eaves and work your way up the roof. This ensures that any water that gets under the shingles will flow down the roof and onto the underlayment.
2. Overlap the underlayment: Each row of underlayment should overlap the previous row by at least 2 inches. This helps prevent water from seeping between the layers.
3. Use the right fasteners: Use roofing nails or staples to secure the underlayment to the roof deck. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for nail or staple spacing.
4. Cut around penetrations: Make sure to cut the underlayment around any roof penetrations, such as vents or pipes, to ensure a proper seal.
5. Use ice and water shield: In areas prone to ice damming, it's recommended to use an ice and water shield underlayment. This will provide an extra layer of protection against water infiltration.
By following these installation techniques, you can ensure that the underlayment is properly installed and will provide the necessary protection for your shingle roofing system.
Can I install asphalt felt underlayment for shingle roofing?
Yes, installing asphalt felt underlayment under shingle roofing is a common practice in the roofing industry. It is a crucial component of a roofing system that helps protect the roof deck from moisture and prevents leaks. Asphalt felt underlayment is a thin layer of material made from fiberglass or organic materials that are saturated with asphalt, which makes it water-resistant.
The underlayment is installed on top of the roof deck, beneath the shingles. It helps to prevent water from getting through the shingles and onto the roof deck. Additionally, it provides an extra layer of protection against wind-blown rain, ice dams, and other types of moisture.
When installing asphalt felt underlayment, it is important to use the right type and quality of underlayment that is appropriate for the specific roofing application. It is also important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation to ensure that it is installed correctly and provides the intended protection for the roof.
How do I choose the right underlayment for my shingle roof?
Choosing the right underlayment for your shingle roof is crucial in ensuring the longevity and performance of your roof. There are several factors to consider when selecting the appropriate underlayment.
Firstly, it is important to understand the different types of underlayment available. The most common types are asphalt-saturated felt, synthetic underlayment, and rubberized asphalt. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to choose the one that is best suited for your specific roofing needs.
Secondly, consider the climate in your area. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, you may want to opt for a more durable and water-resistant underlayment.
Thirdly, consider the slope of your roof. If your roof has a steep slope, you may want to choose an underlayment with a higher slip resistance to prevent accidents during installation.
Lastly, consult with a professional roofing contractor to determine the best underlayment for your specific roofing needs. They can provide valuable insight and recommendations based on their experience and expertise.
How does the thickness of the underlayment affect the performance of a shingle roof?
The thickness of the underlayment plays an important role in the performance of a shingle roof. The underlayment is a layer of material installed between the roof deck and the shingles, which provides an additional barrier against moisture and helps to prevent leaks. Thicker underlayment typically provides better protection against moisture and can help to prolong the life of the roof.
A thicker underlayment can also help to improve the energy efficiency of a home by providing additional insulation. It can also help to reduce noise transmission from outside the home, providing a more comfortable living environment.
However, it is important to note that the thickness of the underlayment alone is not the only factor in determining the performance of a shingle roof. The quality of the underlayment, as well as the installation methods, also play important roles. It is important to work with a professional roofing contractor who can help to select the right underlayment for your specific roofing needs.
How does the underlayment affect the energy efficiency of a shingle roof?
The underlayment plays a significant role in the energy efficiency of a shingle roof. It acts as a protective barrier between the roof deck and the shingles, preventing water from entering the roof structure and causing damage. Moreover, it also helps to improve the insulation of the roof, which can affect the energy efficiency of the building.
There are different types of underlayment materials available, including synthetic, felt, and rubber. Each type has its unique features and benefits. Synthetic underlayment is popular for its high durability and resistance to moisture. Felt underlayment is cost-effective and easy to install. Rubber underlayment provides superior insulation and soundproofing.
In terms of energy efficiency, the type of underlayment used can impact the roof's overall performance. For example, rubber underlayment can significantly reduce heat transfer, which can lower cooling costs in hot climates. Similarly, synthetic underlayment can reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption, which can lower energy consumption and costs.
Overall, the underlayment is an essential component of a shingle roof, and its impact on energy efficiency should be considered when selecting the right material for a roofing project.
How important is the underlayment for shingle roofing systems?
The underlayment is a vital component of any shingle roofing system. It serves as a barrier between the shingles and the roof deck, providing an extra layer of protection against moisture, wind, and other environmental elements. Without an underlayment, water can seep through the shingles and into the roof deck, causing damage to the structure of the roof, and potentially leading to leaks and other problems.
The type of underlayment used can also affect the overall performance of the roofing system. For example, synthetic underlayment is more durable and resistant to tears than traditional felt paper, making it a better choice for areas with high wind or heavy rain. Additionally, some underlayments are designed to provide additional insulation, which can help keep energy costs down.
Overall, while underlayment may not be the most visible part of a shingle roofing system, it plays a crucial role in protecting the roof and ensuring its longevity. Investing in a high-quality underlayment can help homeowners avoid costly repairs and replacements down the road.
What are the benefits of using synthetic underlayment for shingle roofing?
Synthetic underlayment is gaining popularity as a roofing material in recent years, and for good reasons. The benefits of using synthetic underlayment for shingle roofing include durability, water resistance, and ease of installation.
Synthetic underlayment is made from a combination of materials like polypropylene, polyester, and fiberglass. This makes it more durable than traditional felt underlayment, as it can withstand harsh weather conditions like heavy rain, wind, and hail. It is also less likely to tear or buckle during installation or while walking on it.
Another advantage of synthetic underlayment is its water resistance. It creates a barrier between the shingles and the roof deck, preventing water from penetrating the roof and causing damage. It is also less susceptible to mold and mildew growth, which can reduce the lifespan of traditional felt underlayment.
Finally, synthetic underlayment is easy to install. It is lightweight and can be rolled out quickly, which can save time and labor costs. It also has markings or lines to guide installers, making it easy to cut and lay out.
In summary, the benefits of using synthetic underlayment for shingle roofing include durability, water resistance, and ease of installation. It is an excellent alternative to traditional felt underlayment and can help extend the lifespan of a roof.
What are the different types of underlayment materials available for shingle roofing?
There are several types of underlayment materials available for shingle roofing. The most common types are felt paper, synthetic underlayment, and rubberized asphalt.
Felt paper is the traditional choice for underlayment in shingle roofing. It is made from organic or fiberglass materials and is saturated with asphalt. Felt paper is affordable and easy to install, but it is not as durable as other types of underlayment.
Synthetic underlayment is becoming increasingly popular due to its superior performance. It is made from polymer materials and provides better protection against moisture and damage. Synthetic underlayment is also more resistant to tearing, wrinkling, and rotting.
Rubberized asphalt underlayment is another option that offers excellent protection against water infiltration. It is made from asphalt and rubber polymers and has a sticky surface that adheres to the roof deck. Rubberized asphalt underlayment is more expensive than felt paper and synthetic underlayment, but it provides superior protection against leaks.
Choosing the right type of underlayment for your shingle roofing project depends on your budget, climate, and personal preferences. It’s important to consult with a roofing professional to determine the best option for your specific needs.
What is the best roof underlayment for shingles?
The best roof underlayment for shingles depends on various factors, such as climate, roof slope, and budget. However, the most commonly used and recommended underlayment for shingles is synthetic underlayment. Synthetic underlayment is made of high-quality polymers or asphalt and fiberglass, making it durable, water-resistant, and lightweight. It also has a non-slip surface that helps prevent accidents during installation. Synthetic underlayment is also resistant to tears and punctures, and it provides better protection against moisture and wind-driven rain compared to traditional felt underlayment. Another advantage of synthetic underlayment is that it can be left exposed for up to six months without any damage, allowing contractors to work at a comfortable pace. Overall, synthetic underlayment is an excellent choice for shingle roofing, providing superior protection, longevity, and peace of mind.
What is the expected lifespan of a shingle roof underlayment?
The expected lifespan of a shingle roof underlayment varies depending on the type of material used, installation technique, and weather conditions. Generally, traditional felt underlayment can last for about 15-20 years, while synthetic underlayment can last up to 50 years or more. However, it is important to note that the lifespan of underlayment can be significantly reduced if it is exposed to extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rainfall or high winds. Additionally, improper installation can also affect the lifespan of underlayment. Therefore, it is essential to hire a professional roofer to install the underlayment correctly and to ensure that it is maintained properly. Regular roof inspections can also help to identify any issues with the underlayment and address them before they cause significant damage to the roof.
