When you have a new roof put on your house, you probably think of it as a shingles or tiles job. But there is more to roofing. Underlayment lies beneath. This layer functions like a guard for your home. It keeps water out, even if a shingle or tile gets damaged or blows off in a storm, and offers an added layer of protection to the wood sheathing that undergirds your roof. We’ll explain the advantages and disadvantages of different underlayment types.

Asphalt-Saturated Felt: A Popular Choice

One of the most frequently used types of roof underlayment is asphalt-saturated felt. This material has been around for a while, and for good reason. It is made by soaking felt material in asphalt, which, in turn, makes it waterproof.

A big plus for asphalt felt is that it’s usually relatively inexpensive, which can help keep the total cost of your roofing project down. It’s also deters water from sneaking into your attic and creating issues such as mold or wood rot.

However, asphalt felt is not the most durable option, and it can tear during installation, particularly during hot weather when it can soften. Also, the asphalt coating can degrade and become less effective over time at protecting against water, so it may not be the longest-lasting option when compared with other materials.

Synthetic Underlayment: Lighter and Stronger

Synthetic underlayment has become popular in recent years. This is generally made from polypropylene or polyethylene. One of synthetic underlayment’s best features is its durability. Compared to asphalt felt, is also far less likely to rip or be otherwise damaged during installation. Synthetic underlayment also tends to be lighter than felt, so it is easier to carry up to the roof.

An even larger advantage is its water resistance. Many of these synthetic products provide better protection against water infiltration. They also don’t deteriorate at the same rate as asphalt, which could offer more long-term protection to your roof deck.

The one disadvantage of synthetic underlayment is that it generally costs more than asphalt felt. But its longer lifespan and greater durability could make it a better value over the long run.

Rubberized Asphalt Underlayment: The Ultimate Protection

In terms of the ultimate protection from water, such as during severe weather with heavy rain or snow, rubberized asphalt underlayment is often regarded as the best. This material has a lot of rubber content in the asphalt, which makes it waterproof and self-sealing around nails. This is a big pro in terms of leak protection.

Rubberized asphalt underlayment also has high impact resistance and can provide great protection for decades. The only con is that it is the priciest underlayment type.

An experienced roofer can provide you with custom recommendations based on your home and circumstances. To choose the best underlayment for your roofing job in Fort Lauderdale, FL, call our team at Kairos Roofing.