When choosing the right underlayment for your roofing project, the decision between felt and synthetic options can be daunting.
Both materials have their own advantages and disadvantages, leaving homeowners and contractors alike wondering which is the better choice.
Traditional felt underlayment has been used for decades and is known for its durability and affordability.
Conversely, synthetic underlayment is becoming increasingly popular because of its exceptional strength and resistance to moisture.
The debate between felt vs. synthetic underlayment continues, making it crucial to assess your project’s specific needs. This is where we, as qualified San Antonio roofing contractors, come in with this expert guide.
Traditional Felt Underlayment
Traditional felt underlayment is a time-tested and reliable choice for providing a protective barrier between the roof deck and the roofing materials.
Felt underlayment is made from organic materials such as asphalt-saturated felt, then coated with asphalt to enhance its waterproofing properties.
One of the main advantages of felt underlayment is its affordability. In general, it tends to be more cost-effective when compared to synthetic underlayment choices.
Additionally, felt underlayment is easy to install and can withstand the rigors of the construction process.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Felt underlayment is prone to tearing during installation, especially in windy conditions. It also has a shorter lifespan compared to synthetic underlayment.
When comparing felt underlayment to synthetic options, it is essential to consider factors such as durability, cost, and installation ease.
Advantages of Synthetic Underlayment
Synthetic underlayment provides numerous benefits over conventional felt underlayment, including enhanced durability, extended lifespan, and superior performance. One significant advantage is its installation process.
Being lightweight and easy to handle, synthetic underlayment expedites the installation process, enhancing overall efficiency. Additionally, it is available in larger rolls, reducing the number of seams and potential weak points in the roofing system.
Another advantage of synthetic underlayment is its durability.
Made from synthetic polymers or asphalt-saturated materials, it is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including high winds and heavy rain.
This durability ensures that the underlayment will protect the roof and the entire structure for longer.
Furthermore, synthetic underlayment has a longer lifespan compared to traditional felt underlayment. Its superior resistance to UV rays and moisture makes it less likely to deteriorate or become brittle over time.
This means homeowners can enjoy synthetic underlayment’s benefits for many years without worrying about frequent replacement or repairs.
Overall, synthetic underlayment enhances the performance and longevity of roofing systems.
Disadvantages of Felt Underlayment
Despite its long-standing use in roofing systems, felt underlayment has several disadvantages that should be considered.
One of the limitations of felt underlayment is its susceptibility to moisture. Felt is made from organic materials such as wood and paper, which can absorb water and lead to mold and rot if
not properly protected.
Additionally, felt underlayment can tear easily, especially during installation or when exposed to high winds. This can undermine the overall integrity of the roofing system and expose it to potential leaks.
Another drawback of felt underlayment is its limited lifespan compared to synthetic alternatives.
Felt generally has a lifespan of approximately 15-20 years, while synthetic underlayment can endure for up to 50 years.
Considering these constraints and disadvantages, it is vital to thoroughly evaluate the specific requirements and conditions of a roofing project before selecting felt underlayment.
Benefits of Choosing Synthetic Underlayment
With its advanced composition and enhanced durability, synthetic underlayment offers numerous advantages over its traditional counterpart.
When comparing the cost, synthetic underlayment may initially seem more expensive than felt underlayment.
However, considering its longer lifespan and superior performance, it becomes a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
Constructed to endure severe weather conditions, such as strong winds and heavy rain, synthetic underlayment boasts high durability. It also offers better resistance to mold and mildew, ensuring a healthier environment for the building.
Additionally, synthetic underlayment is lightweight and more accessible to handle during installation, reducing labor costs.
Its superior tear resistance and UV protection further contribute to its longevity, making it a reliable and durable underlayment option.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Underlayment
When selecting underlayment for a roofing project, several important factors must be considered.
One of the foremost considerations is cost. Felt underlayment tends to be more affordable compared to synthetic options.
However, evaluating the long-term cost implications is important, as synthetic underlayment often provides superior durability and longevity, potentially resulting in lower maintenance and replacement costs over time.
Another factor to consider is the environmental impact. Synthetic underlayment is typically made from petroleum-based materials, which may have a higher carbon footprint.
On the other hand, felt underlayment is usually made from recycled materials and is biodegradable.
Therefore, if environmental sustainability is a priority, felt underlayment may be a more suitable choice. Ultimately, it is crucial to weigh both cost considerations and environmental impact when deciding.
