(800)-647-0986
Banner Lines roofing underlayment-close up of roof underlayment roll on decking

5 Benefits Of Using The Correct Roofing Underlayment

Posted January 15th, 2025 | 7 min. Read

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements—and its strength depends on more than just shingles or tiles. One of the most essential yet often overlooked components is roofing underlayment. Acting as a crucial barrier between your roofing material and the deck beneath, the right underlayment provides durability, insulation, and enhanced protection for your roof. But what exactly is roofing underlayment, why is it important, and how can it benefit your home? This guide explains everything you need to know, including tips for maximizing its potential. Here’s what we’ll cover in this article:

  • What is roofing underlayment?
  • 5 key benefits of using the correct roofing underlayment
  • How to choose the right underlayment for your home

🤔 What is Roofing Underlayment?

roofing underlayment-aerial view of exposed decking and underlayment on roof during replacement

Roofing underlayment is a protective layer installed between your roof decking and the outer roofing material (like shingles, tiles, or metal panels). It serves as a secondary layer of defense, acting as a waterproof barrier to protect your home from moisture, wind, and temperature changes.

Without underlayment, your roof is at greater risk of water leaks, mold growth, and structural damage—all of which could lead to costly repairs down the line.

Types of Roofing Underlayment

Choosing the right type of underlayment is crucial to ensuring your roof functions optimally. Here are the three main types available on the market:

  • Asphalt-Saturated Felt: The most traditional option, asphalt-saturated felt, is made from a combination of organic fibers and asphalt. This type of underlayment is water-resistant and relatively affordable, making it a popular choice for residential homes.
  • Rubberized Asphalt: Rubberized asphalt underlayment is a premium product with superior waterproofing properties. It often comes with adhesive backing, allowing it to provide an additional seal against leaks. Ideal for areas prone to heavy rain or snow, this type of underlayment is more expensive but offers unmatched durability.
  • Synthetic Underlayment: The modern choice, synthetic underlayment, is lightweight, durable, and resistant to tearing. Thanks to its superior performance and compatibility with a range of roofing materials, it has become the go-to option for many homeowners and contractors.

✅ 5 Key Benefits of Using the Correct Roofing Underlayment

roofing underlayment-roof underlayment exposed during shingle installation project

Roofing underlayment is more than just an additional layer—it’s the foundation of your roof’s durability, performance, and longevity. Choosing the correct underlayment is essential to protect your home and maximize your roof’s functionality. Here’s how it makes a difference:

1. Extra Protection Against Leaks

Even the best roofing materials, like high-quality shingles, can deteriorate or shift over time due to weather exposure, debris, or aging. This can create gaps where water, snow, or ice can seep through, causing costly damage to your roof deck and your home’s interior. Roofing underlayment acts as a critical watertight barrier beneath the shingles, preventing leaks from penetrating your home. Whether it’s a torrential downpour or melting ice, underlayment ensures your roof remains a solid defense against water intrusion, minimizing the risk of rot, mold, and structural damage.

2. Better Insulation

Roofing underlayment doesn’t just protect your home from external elements—it also plays a role in maintaining internal comfort. By providing an additional layer of insulation, it helps regulate temperature inside your home. In colder months, underlayment minimizes heat loss, keeping your living space warm and reducing the strain on your heating system. During hotter months, it prevents excessive heat from entering your home, keeping it cooler and reducing the need for air conditioning. This added insulation results in more consistent indoor temperatures, decreased energy consumption, and lower utility bills over time—a win for both your wallet and the environment.

3. Enhanced Wind Resistance

If you live in a region prone to extreme weather conditions, such as strong winds, hurricanes, or tornadoes, the strength of your roof is critical. Synthetic and rubberized underlayment materials are designed to withstand high winds, reinforcing your roof’s overall structure. These materials provide an extra layer of adhesion, helping to keep your shingles in place and reducing the likelihood of them being torn off during storms. This enhanced wind resistance can be especially valuable in areas like coastal regions, where severe weather events are more frequent. With the right underlayment, you can have peace of mind knowing your roof is equipped to handle even the harshest conditions.

4. Improved Fire Resistance

Fire safety is an essential consideration for any home, especially in areas with high heat, dry conditions, or wildfire risks. Many modern roofing underlayment products are made with fire-resistant materials, providing an additional safeguard against fire-related hazards. This extra layer of protection can slow the spread of flames, giving homeowners and emergency responders more time to act in the event of a fire. In some cases, using fire-resistant underlayment can even help you qualify for insurance discounts. By choosing an underlayment with fire-resistant properties, you’re not just protecting your roof—you’re enhancing the safety of your entire home and its occupants.

5. Extended Roof Lifespan

Your roof is a significant investment, so ensuring its longevity is essential. High-quality underlayment protects the roof deck—the foundation of your roof—from water damage, mold growth, and other hazards that can compromise its structural integrity over time. It also reduces wear and tear on your shingles by acting as a cushion and providing extra reinforcement. With the right underlayment, your roof will be better equipped to withstand the elements, ensuring it lasts longer and requires fewer repairs. Think of it as an investment in your roof’s long-term durability, saving you money on potential replacements down the road.

👉 How to Choose the Right Underlayment for Your Home

roofing underlayment-roof underlayment being installed on roof decking

Selecting the right roofing underlayment is crucial to ensuring your roof performs well and lasts long. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

  • Climate: Your local weather plays a major role. In humid or rainy regions, synthetic or rubberized asphalt underlayment is highly recommended due to its superior waterproofing and durability. For areas with extreme heat or cold, underlayments designed to withstand temperature fluctuations are a better choice.
  • Roofing Material: The type of roof you have influences the ideal underlayment. Metal roofs, for instance, often pair best with synthetic underlayments for added strength and moisture resistance, while asphalt shingles may work well with traditional felt.
  • Budget: Your budget will determine whether you go for premium options like rubberized asphalt, which offers exceptional performance, or more affordable options like asphalt-saturated felt, which provides basic protection at a lower cost.
  • Local Building Codes: Ensure your selected underlayment complies with local construction and safety regulations. These codes may dictate the type or grade of underlayment required for your area.

Choosing the right roofing underlayment can seem overwhelming, but it’s a critical step in protecting your home. Need help making the right decision? Our team at Certified Roofing Solutions is here to guide you every step of the way!

🙌 Certified Roofing Solutions: Expert Care for a Safer, Stronger Home

At Certified Roofing Solutions, we pride ourselves on providing expert guidance and top-quality service to meet your roofing needs. Our team combines years of experience with a commitment to using the best materials available, ensuring your roof is built to last. From helping you choose the right underlayment to completing the installation with precision, we are dedicated to protecting your home and giving you peace of mind. When it comes to your roof, don’t settle for anything less than exceptional care. Contact Certified Roofing Solutions today for a consultation and see how we can help make your home safer and stronger!

Banner Lines

Delighted To Serve You.

Contact Us
Share to...

Instant Quote