When it comes to roofing, the materials you choose can make or break the longevity and performance of your home’s first line of defense. One critical component often overlooked by homeowners is the underlayment—the protective layer installed beneath your shingles. Traditionally, felt paper (also known as tar paper) was the go-to option. However, modern advancements have introduced synthetic underlayment, a superior alternative that’s revolutionizing the industry. At The Roofing Artist, we exclusively use synthetic underlayment for all our roof installations. Here’s why.
Durability That Outshines Felt Paper
Felt paper, typically made from organic materials soaked in asphalt, has been a roofing staple for decades. While it’s affordable, its durability leaves much to be desired. Felt paper tears easily during installation, especially in windy conditions, and degrades quickly when exposed to moisture. Once wet, it wrinkles and loses its protective qualities, leaving your roof vulnerable.
Synthetic underlayment, on the other hand, is engineered from advanced polymers like polypropylene or polyester. This makes it incredibly tear-resistant and capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions. Whether it’s a gusty day during installation or a sudden rainstorm before shingles are laid, synthetic underlayment holds up where felt paper fails. For us at The Roofing Artist, this durability translates to a more reliable installation process and a roof that lasts longer.
Superior Waterproofing
Water resistance is a roofing underlayment’s primary job, and synthetic options excel here. Felt paper absorbs water over time, which can lead to rot, mold, and damage to the roof deck. Synthetic underlayment is designed to repel water, not absorb it. Many synthetic products even feature a slip-resistant, waterproof coating that adds an extra layer of protection. This is a game-changer for homeowners, ensuring that even if a shingle blows off or a seam fails, the underlayment keeps water out. At The Roofing Artist, we prioritize this level of protection for every roof we install.
Lightweight and Easy to Install
While felt paper is heavier and prone to tearing, synthetic underlayment is lightweight yet tough. This makes it easier and safer for our team to handle, especially on steep or complex roofs. Plus, synthetic rolls cover more square footage per roll than felt paper, reducing seams and speeding up installation. Fewer seams mean fewer potential weak points, enhancing the roof’s overall integrity. For The Roofing Artist, this efficiency allows us to deliver top-quality installations without cutting corners.
Long-Term Performance and Sustainability
Synthetic underlayment doesn’t just perform better during installation—it outlasts felt paper by years. It resists UV degradation, meaning it can stay exposed longer without breaking down, a critical factor if a project faces delays. Additionally, many synthetic products are recyclable, aligning with our commitment to sustainable practices at The Roofing Artist. Felt paper, with its asphalt base, offers no such eco-friendly benefits.
Why The Roofing Artist Stands by Synthetic
At The Roofing Artist, we believe in doing things right the first time. Synthetic underlayment’s unmatched durability, waterproofing, ease of use, and long-term performance make it the clear choice over outdated felt paper. It’s an investment in quality that protects your home and gives you peace of mind. When we install a roof, we’re not just covering your house—we’re crafting a masterpiece that stands the test of time. That’s why synthetic underlayment is our standard, every time.
