If you’re installing a new metal roof, you have to check the local building code to ensure what type of roof underlayment your project can use. Once you’ve determined synthetic underlayment is suitable for your project, you still have different types and brands of synthetic underlayment to choose from. At Western States Metal Roofing, we have been in the roofing industry for over 20 years manufacturing metal panels and work closely with roofing contractors everyday to help them find the products that will enable them to have a successful roof installation. To make your buying decision easier, we go over the main types of synthetic underlayment in this article to help you choose which is best for your installation. Synthetic underlayment is a layer of laminated polypropylene or polyethylene plastic material that goes over the roof deck. It’s purpose is to provide an extra layer of protection to the roof system. The synthetic material is resistant to moisture and can be left exposed to the element for an extended period of time, making it the right underlayment material to choose when drying in a roof. Synthetic underlayment has a longer lifespan when compared to felt or asphalt roofing underlayment. The best synthetic roofing underlayment is an underlayment that matches the lifespan of the roof. For example, if you have a metal roof that’s designed to last 50 plus years, then you should buy an underlayment that has a 50 year warranty. A superior quality high temperature underlayment, such as the Sharkskin Ultra SA® or Sharkskin Ultra, is considered to be a high quality roof underlayment due to its durability and longevity. The weight of the underlayment is an excellent indication of the quality of the underlayment. This is especially true with the non adhesive roofing underlayment. In an effort to cut cost, there are many synthetic underlayment on the market that boast about their mil thickness. This can be misleading though as some of these underlayment have a fuzzy top layer that’s a false indicator of the materials thickness. It’s unusual to have a comparison chart that’s so lopsided, but there’s really only one significant disadvantage for synthetic underlayment. The short term costs are much higher than felt underlayment. However, the long term cost of having an asphalt underlayment that fails prior to the roof system will be catastrophic.
What Is Synthetic Roof Underlayment?
What Is The Best Synthetic Roof Underlayment?
Synthetic Underlayment Weight Vs. Mil Thickness
Synthetic Roof Underlayment Pros And Cons
PROS Of Synthetic Roof Underlayment | CONS Of Synthetic Roof Underlayment |
Greater Resistance To Mold And Mildew | More Expensive Than Felt |
Can Be Left Exposed For Long Periods Of Time | |
Safer To Walk On | |
Lasts Longer (25-50 years) | |
Lighter And Easier To Install/ Work With For DIY |
Synthetic underlayment is more lightweight than felt which makes it easier to carry and install. Synthetic underlayment also provides better traction for roofers than roofing felt in both wet and dry conditions, making it a safer product to work with during installation.
For a further comparison on the differences between synthetic and felt underlayment, we recommend reading:
Synthetic vs. Felt Roof Underlayment: Which Should I Use?
How Long Does Synthetic Metal Roof Underlayment Last?
One of synthetic underlayment’s advantages is its long lifespan. Synthetic roofing underlayment will have a warranty that ranges from 25-50 years, while felt underlayment only lasts 12-20 years. In addition, synthetic underlayment can be left exposed for months. Conversely, felt cannot be left exposed for long periods of time. This becomes important if your project is not able to be completed immediately.
How Much Does Synthetic Roof Underlayment Cost?
The price of synthetic roof underlayment will vary depending on the lifespan of the product and whether it’s non adhesive or self adhesive.
- 25 year non adhesive underlayment = $.15 to $.20 Per square foot
- 50 year non adhesive underlayment = $.20 to $.25 Per square foot
- 50 year self adhesive underlayment = $.55 to $.65 Per square foot
Though underlayment is a small expense when you look at the overall cost of your installed roof, it is one of the most important components of a long lasting roof.
What Are The Types Of Synthetic Roof Underlayment?
While there are different types of roof underlayment, most manufacturers follow the model of having a “good, better, best” option that ranges in terms of quality and price.
For this article, we will use the Sharkskin manufacturer product line to discuss the types of synthetic underlayment.
- Sharkskin Comp®
- Sharkskin Ultra®
- Sharkskin Ultra SA®
Sharkskin Comp®
Sharkskin Comp® is a quality high temperature rated non adhesive synthetic roofing underlayment that is a great choice for metal and shingle roofing. Though this is the entry level synthetic underlayment, it is considered throughout the roofing industry to be superior to felt underlayment. Sharkskin Comp® comes with a 30 year warranty under warranty.
Sharkskin Comp® Pros And Cons
PROS | CONS |
Most affordable | Least UV resistance (6 months) |
Safer and easier to work with compared to felt underlayment | Not suitable for all roofing materials |
Shorter warranty (25 years) |
What Is The Underlayment Roll Size For Sharkskin Comp®?
A roll of Sharkskin Comp® is 48” wide, 10 squares and weighs 40 pounds.
How Long Can Sharkskin Comp® Underlayment Be Left Exposed?
Sharkskin Comp® has UV resistance for up to 6 months.
Cost For Sharkskin Comp® Synthetic Roof Underlayment
When purchased through a manufacturer, the price of a synthetic underlayment roll decreases as quantity purchased increases. It will cost between $.15 to $.20 per square foot.
Sharkskin Ultra®
Sharkskin Ultra® is a quality high temperature rated, non-adhesive synthetic underlayment that is suited for metal, shingles, tile, and slate roofing systems. It’s heavier and more durable than Sharkskin Comp®. Sharkskin Ultra® comes with a 50 year warranty. It’s the best non peel and stick underlayment.
Sharkskin Ultra® Pros And Cons
PROS | CONS |
Suitable for most roofing materials | More expensive than Sharkskin Comp® |
50 year warranty | Non adhesive |
12 month UV exposure |
What Is The Underlayment Roll Size For Sharkskin Ultra®?
Sharkskin Ultra® is 48” wide and 250 lineal feet. Each roll weighs 50 pounds and is 10 squares.
How Long Can Sharkskin Ultra® Underlayment Be Left Exposed?
Sharkskin Ultra® can be left exposed for up to 12 months.
Cost For Sharkskin Ultra® Synthetic Roof Underlayment
When purchased through a manufacturer, the price of a synthetic underlayment roll decreases as quantity purchased increases. It will cost between $.20 to $.25 per square foot.
Sharkskin Ultra SA®
Sharkskin Ultra SA® is a “state of the art” high temp rated peel and stick roof underlayment. As the underlayment with the most superior quality in the Sharkskin series, it is the ideal underlayment material for all roofing types including asphalt shingles, metal, tile, and slate roofs.
Ultra SA provides durable secondary moisture protection in high velocity wind zones and is an excellent choice for areas with extreme weather and snow conditions. Sharkskin Ultra SA® comes with a 50 year warranty.
Sharkskin Ultra SA® Pros And Cons
PROS | CONS |
All weather barrier- maximum durability | Most expensive |
Suitable for most roofing materials | Less coverage per roll |
Requires fewer rolls to comply with “ice barrier” codes |
What Is The Underlayment Roll Size For Sharkskin Ultra SA®?
Sharkskin Ultra SA® is 48” wide and 125 lineal feet. Each roll weighs 65 pounds and contains 5 squares per roll.
8” mini rolls are also available. These are used to cover the valleys and eaves of a roof.
How Long Can Sharkskin Ultra SA® Underlayment Be Left Exposed?
Sharkskin Ultra SA® can be left exposed for up to 12 months.
Cost For Sharkskin Ultra SA® Synthetic Roof Underlayment
When purchased through a metal roofing manufacturer, the price of a synthetic underlayment roll decreases as quantity purchased increases. It will cost between $.55 to $.65 per square foot.
When Is It Best To Use Ice And Water Shield For Roofing?
Ice and water shield is another name for peel and stick underlayment. It’s an excellent underlayment choice, especially for roofs that have low slopes and in climates that experience heavy rain, winds, and snow. The durability of peel and stick roof underlayment makes it more effective at minimizing the risk of water penetration which would result in damage to the roofing system. In fact, building codes in heavy rain and snow country areas often require the installation of ice and water shield underlayment.
Self adhesive roof underlayment can also be used in conjunction with a non adhesive underlayment. In these instances it’s used along the areas of a roof that pose the greatest risk of ice damage or water intrusion such as the eaves, rakes, ridges, and valleys. The 8” rolls are used in these areas which saves installation time.
Peel and stick underlayment is a flexible material that is preferred by roofing contractors because it’s easy to work with and makes for a simple installation. It also lays flatter on the roof deck than non-adhesive underlayment, making for a smooth foundation for your roofing material.
Where Do You Buy Synthetic Roof Underlayment?
Synthetic underlayment is available for purchase through most metal roof suppliers including big box stores such as Home Depot or Lowes. However, you are limited to the quantity and quality of what they have in stock.
If you are working with a roofing contractor, most will provide all accessories for the installation, including the underlayment, and roll the cost of the materials into the installation quote.
If you are installing the roof yourself and have a materials list, you can purchase underlayment and all the materials you need for your installation through a metal manufacturer. As mentioned in the cost sections above, the more quantity you buy with a manufacturer, the cheaper the underlayment is per roll.
Choosing The Right Synthetic Underlayment For Your Roofing Project
Synthetic underlayment is a sturdy, dependable type of underlayment that will outlast any felt material. When choosing your underlayment, you want to make sure you consult the local building code so that the type you choose meets area standards. Also make sure that the selected underlayment is permitted by the metal manufacturer so that you do not void the metal panel warranty.
Other considerations to make when choosing underlayment:
- Climate
- Building codes
- Length of time underlayment will be left exposed
- The roofs intended lifespan
- Budget
At Western States Metal Roofing, we understand how important using quality products is to having a successful roof installation and we take pride in the products we offer.
Choosing the right underlayment for your roof can be confusing. Our team is happy to answer any questions you have. We have roofing underlayment ready to be shipped immediately in addition to all of our other roofing products and accessories. We can also provide you with a free quote for any of our products.
FAQs
How much does synthetic underlayment cost? ›
When purchased through a manufacturer, the price of a synthetic underlayment roll decreases as quantity purchased increases. It will cost between $. 15 to $. 20 per square foot.
What is the disadvantage of synthetic roof? ›Compared to felt, the main disadvantage of synthetic roofing underlayment is its cost. The initial investment in better quality roofing materials is much higher than felt, however, it could save you money in the long run!
What type of roof underlayment is best? ›Synthetic Underlayment
This is currently the most popular choice for roof underlayment, and with good reason. Made with an asphalt-saturated basemat and fortified with a mix of fiberglass, this product is not only extremely water-resistant, much stronger and more resistant to tears than other types of underlayment.
Synthetic underlayment lasts longer than traditional roofing felt, which makes it a better investment for homeowners. It's also more water-resistant, which means greater protection for the roof deck should the primary roofing material fail.
Is 30 lb felt better than synthetic underlayment? ›With that in mind, synthetic underlayment is more durable than felt underlayment. Felt underlayment is much more prone to rip from high winds and during the installation process. Synthetic underlayment also holds nails better and repels water instead of absorbing it.
How many layers of synthetic underlayment are there? ›Two layers of underlayment are required for low-slope roofs. The first course is doubled. Above that, 36-inch wide strips are then applied to the roof in a shingle fashion, starting at the lower roof edge, and overlapping subsequent courses a minimum of 19 inches.
Which is better synthetic or felt roofing underlayment pros & cons? ›To summarize, Synthetic roofing underlayment is much more tear-resistant when exposed to high winds and foot traffic than black paper roofing felt . This type of underlayment is moisture-resistant, and when it's installed correctly, it offers better protection from the weather compared to felt.
What are the disadvantages of synthetic? ›- Synthetic fibres do not absorb water or sweat.
- Synthetic fibres melt and burn easily.
- Synthetic fibres on catching fire shrink forming beads which stick to the skin. ...
- Synthetic fibres are nonbiodegradable.
Some high-quality synthetic underlayment includes scrim or coarse woven material reinforcement for added slip resistance, even when the material is wet. Non-bitumen synthetic roofing underlayment is known for being highly flexible, waterproof, durable, and mold-resistant.
What underlayment has the best R value? ›Product Overview. DRICORE Insul-Armor is the most premium subfloor. With an R-value of 4.1, DRICORE Insul-Armor provides one of the highest R-values in the market, meaning maximum warmth and comfort for your family.
What are the three types of roofing underlayment? ›
In general, there are three types of roofing underlayment: felt, self-adhered, and synthetic.
How long does synthetic underlayment last? ›Newer synthetic or rubberized asphalt underlayments are much more durable than asphalt felt and offer better protection against water. These underlayments can last 25 years or more with inspections.
Does the type of underlayment matter? ›Proper selection and installation of underlayment are important because they can affect how your laminate flooring feels and how it wears over time. The type of underlayment chosen should be based on the environment, the type of floor chosen, and your own personal needs for space.
Can I staple synthetic roof underlayment? ›An installer needs to follow the directions when installing synthetic underlayment, just like any other building material. Most synthetic manufacturers require the product to be fastened with capped nails, not staples. This is especially true if the product will be left exposed for any length of time.
How long can synthetic roof underlayment be exposed? ›Most synthetic underlayments can be left exposed for six months and some for 12 months. The woolly, tan-colored Opus Roof Blanket, though, is approved for 30 months of UV exposure. underlayment for several good reasons. While the price of asphalt felt fluctuates somewhat, it's still the least expensive option.
What is the difference between roofing underlayment #15 and #30? ›If your roof does not have a steep pitch, you can use #15. This weight of felt is a good economic choice if you have a standard roof. But if your roof has a steep pitch, #30 is a better option because it is thicker and tears less during installation. With #30 you get a thicker layer of underlayment and protection.
What is better 15 lb or 30 lb underlayment? ›Generally speaking, 30-pound felt is less likely to experience tears than 15-pound felt. This is beneficial for installation, roof protection, and all of its other functions. Additionally, if a shingle comes off in a storm, 30-pound felt is much less likely to tear along with the shingle, keeping your roof protected.
What is a better underlayment? ›The best materials for floor underlayments include foam, cork, and polyethylene (thermoplastic). If you're looking to add softness while absorbing sound and preventing mold and mildew, cork might be your best bet. 4 If your main goal is to add a moisture barrier, polyethylene might be a better choice.
What is a good thickness for underlayment? ›Underlayment. Underneath the top flooring layer is often (though not always) an underlayment. It comprises padding materials and is typically about 1/4 to 1/2 inch in thickness. The purpose of the underlayment is to provide a sturdy yet comfortable layer for your outer flooring to sit on.
Can you have too much underlayment? ›Underlayment is manufactured and meant to be used as only a single layer to allow your floor to be balanced and float properly. If you install any additional underlayment, the base for your flooring will end up being too soft and could jeopardize the integrity of the locking system.
Does synthetic roof felt breath? ›
Felt is breathable, has been used for decades, has a proven track record and will perform as well as a synthetic without the risk of putting a vapour barrier on your roof. Felts will absorb moisture and allow moisture to evaporate and discourage wood rot.
Is GAF synthetic underlayment waterproof? ›FeltBuster® Synthetic Roofing Felt is water resistant, it is NOT WATERPROOF. DO NOT USE Feltbuster® Synthetic Roofing Felt as a temporary roof to protect property or possessions.
Why is synthetic not advisable? ›because Synthetic fibres like Polyester catches fire very easily and melts. After melting It sticks to the body of the person wearing it causing severe burns. Hence it is advised not wear synthetic clothes while working in the Kitchen. Was this answer helpful?
What is one advantage and one disadvantage of synthetic? ›hold up to fire and melt much quicker than natural fibers. all absorb moisture well and some can become uncomfortable and heavy when wet. treat the planet as kindly as natural fibers that are biodegradable or eco-friendly. easily resist a static charge.
Why is synthetic cheaper? ›Synthetic fibres tend to be cheaper than natural fibres because they can be easily produced continuously in fabrics. Natural fibres in the other hand require care of animals/plants and multiple steps of processing which make them comparatively expensive.
Does synthetic underlayment seal around nails? ›Because most synthetic roofing underlayment must be installed with cap nails or staples, and because these underlayments do not seal around the fasteners, they are typically considered water resistant, not truly waterproof.
How long do synthetic roofs last? ›Compared to asphalt roofing, composite shingles are made to stand the test of time. This type of roofing typically lasts 20 years. However, with the right materials and proper maintenance, composite shingles can last up to 50 years and beyond.
Is synthetic underlayment breathable? ›The short answer is no, they're not! Among Epilay products, perm ratings are quite low. Epilay Superior features a perm rating of 0.154, Ultra has 0.326 and Platinum comes with a perm rating of 0.142, which classifies all of our synthetic underlayments as non-breathable.
Is CDX a good underlayment? ›CDX is best for sub-flooring. In such places, it does not get in contact with a lot of moisture, which prevents it from getting damaged. It is also used for roof sheathing.
What is the best underlayment for warmth? ›When it comes to finding the best underlayment for heated floors, you will find that cork underlayments are the best choice. While real cork can deliver amazing results for concrete floors, Eco Cork Foam is tailored to perform amazingly in any application.
Does thickness of underlayment matter? ›
We'd like to get one thing clear from the start – underlay thickness does matter. Getting it right can make a huge difference to the final look and feel of your new flooring, having a significant impact on its underfoot comfort, sound and heat insulation, and longevity.
What is the average cost of roofing underlayment? ›The cost for synthetic underlayment is about $0.75 to $0.90 per square foot with materials and labor. Extra costs are always determined on a case-by-case basis. You should expect to get prices for any repairs to the roof deck and the shingle layer as well. Take a closer look at where the issues are with your roof.
Does synthetic underlayment leak? ›Synthetic underlayment—apart from peel-and-stick varieties, which are self-sealing—also require cap fasteners to prevent leaks whereas asphalt felt can be installed with less expensive nails or staples. But on the plus side, synthetic underlayment is much more durable than asphalt.
How thick is synthetic roofing underlayment? ›It comes in two thicknesses: fifteen-pound and thirty-pound. Thirty-pound felt is more thick and stiff than fifteen-pound, so thirty-pound is more resistant to damage during installation and can protect the roof longer if exposed to outside elements like rain, wind, hail, and snow.
Is peel and stick better than synthetic underlayment? ›In fact, one of the largest advantages of peel and stick underlayment is that it typically lays more flat on the roof deck than non-adhesive underlayments.
How often should you replace roof underlayment? ›In most cases, traditional felt underlayment is rated to last between 12 and 20 years. In other words, in a little over a decade, the underlayment beneath your roof's surface may start to deteriorate. The roof will become more prone to leaks as this added layer of protection breaks down.
Can you put new underlayment over old? ›Manufacturer Warranty
If your manufacturer says you can put underlayment down on top of an existing install, you are good to go, but if not, you will need to completely remove the existing flooring back down to the subfloor for a proper, warrantied installation.
Underlays are made of a variety of different materials. Soft underlays are made from cork, foam, felt, fibre, rubber, and other various products. Harder varieties are made from plywood or recycled wood. There are also options available which are made from 100 percent recycled and recyclable material.
Does underlayment need to be glued down? ›No, you should not glue down your underlayment. Underlayment is is a floating material, the same as your laminate flooring. In most cases, you should not glue or nail your underlayment down. You should always check with the installation instructions of the underlayment for proper installation instructions first.
Should I screw or staple underlayment? ›The easiest and best fastening option is galvanized staples driven with an air-powered stapler (available for rent at home centers and rental outlets). You can also fasten underlayment with galvanized or coated screws or nails.
Do you use nails or staples for roof underlayment? ›
Some roofers prefer to attach felt underlayment with one-inch roofing nails ,or special nails with plastic washers, but most codes allow staples, which are easier to drive.
What roofing underlayment is best? ›Synthetic Underlayment
This is currently the most popular choice for roof underlayment, and with good reason. Made with an asphalt-saturated basemat and fortified with a mix of fiberglass, this product is not only extremely water-resistant, much stronger and more resistant to tears than other types of underlayment.
Felt underlayment tends to cost less compared to synthetic underlayment, which is why it's often the go-to for budget-conscious homeowners.
How much does a roll of synthetic underlayment cover? ›Synthetic Comes in Larger Rolls
Roofing felt rolls are 3-feet long and cover about 400 square feet. Synthetic underlayment rolls are 4-feet long and cover closer to 1000 square feet.
Roof Underlayment Replacement
Replacing your underlayment can cost $2 to $3 per square foot. This is a common expense when installing a new tile roof, even when the existing underlayment is in good shape. You'll pay more (or less) depending on the slope of your roof.
Synthetic underlayment is water-resistant which makes it difficult for water to easily enter your home. There's no need to panic when your roofing shingles go flying off during a wind storm. It provides a superior moisture barrier which will help keep rainwater out until our team arrives.
Will synthetic underlayment leak? ›Synthetic underlayment—apart from peel-and-stick varieties, which are self-sealing—also require cap fasteners to prevent leaks whereas asphalt felt can be installed with less expensive nails or staples. But on the plus side, synthetic underlayment is much more durable than asphalt.
What type of roofing membrane is the cheapest? ›Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material used in the US due to their lower cost and ease of installation. They are generally the most affordable option, though the cost can vary widely depending on the exact type of shingles used.
How often should roof underlayment be replaced? ›In most cases, traditional felt underlayment is rated to last between 12 and 20 years. In other words, in a little over a decade, the underlayment beneath your roof's surface may start to deteriorate. The roof will become more prone to leaks as this added layer of protection breaks down.
What are the different types of roofing underlayment? ›In general, there are three types of roofing underlayment: felt, self-adhered, and synthetic.
How long can you leave underlayment on a roof? ›
Most synthetic underlayments can be left exposed for six months and some for 12 months. The woolly, tan-colored Opus Roof Blanket, though, is approved for 30 months of UV exposure. underlayment for several good reasons. While the price of asphalt felt fluctuates somewhat, it's still the least expensive option.
Does underlayment matter roof? ›It's designed as extra protection for your roof. If the top layer of your roofing material springs a leak, a roof underlayment keeps your roof decking dry and safe. Without a roofing underlayment, rain and other bad weather can seep into your roof deck and cause serious problems like rot, mildew, and mold.
How thick underlayment do I need? ›Underlayment. Underneath the top flooring layer is often (though not always) an underlayment. It comprises padding materials and is typically about 1/4 to 1/2 inch in thickness. The purpose of the underlayment is to provide a sturdy yet comfortable layer for your outer flooring to sit on.