The Benefits Of Synthetic Roofing Underlayment

When most people think of roofing, they often think of the outermost layer of roofing, such as the asphalt shingles, ceramic tiles, or wooden shakes. However, a roofing system is made up of many layers, including underlayment. The underlayment is installed directly over the roof sheathing or decking. Traditionally, felt underlayment, a material made from asphalt granules, is the most common underlayment used. Lately, synthetic underlayment, made from different types of plastic, is gaining in popularity. Here are a few of the benefits associated with synthetic roofing underlayment. 

Synthetic Roofing Underlayment Is Lightweight

One of the benefits that synthetic roofing underlayment has when compared to felt underlayment is the weight. Synthetic underlayment is lighter in weight compared to felt underlayment. This is important, as the outermost roofing materials are gaining in weight. Asphalt shingles are made of more layers, which increases weight. In addition, heavier stone and concrete tiles are becoming more popular. Roofs can only support so much weight before more trusses and support beams need to be added, which can be costly. Selecting a lighter weight underlayment can help balance a heavier outer layer roofing material.

Synthetic Roofing Underlayment Is Resistant to Moisture

Another benefit associated with synthetic roofing underlayment is that synthetic plastics are resistant to moisture. This helps to repel any water that seeps in through your roof from going past the underlayment layer, while also helping to protect against mold and mildew growth. Felt underlayment can absorb moisture and begin to wrinkle, which can increase your chances of a roof leak and lead to both mold and mildew growth. 

Synthetic Roofing Underlayment Is Faster to Install

The final benefit associated with synthetic roofing underlayment is that this underlayment option is typically faster to install compared to felt underlayment. This is because synthetic underlayment comes in rolls that are longer and wider than felt underlayment. This makes it faster and easier to roll out on a roof, which ultimately can help you to save on installation costs. Felt is heavier, so it tends to come in smaller rolls, which means more rolls need to be used to cover a roof. This increases the installation time, which increases labor costs. 

When you are having a new roof installed, you must select between felt or synthetic roofing underlayment. While felt roofing underlayment tends to have a lower material cost than synthetic, synthetic roofing underlayment has more benefits associated with it. Learning about these benefits, as well as discussing your specific roofing needs with a roofer, can help you determine which underlayment is the best option for your roof. Contact a roofer to learn more.


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