The roofing industry is moving away from traditional 15lb and 30lb organic felt paper in favor of synthetic underlayment. This shift is particularly important in regions like Texas, where extreme wind and heat are common.
Synthetic underlayment is typically composed of woven polypropylene or polyethylene. Unlike felt, which is made of paper saturated with asphalt, synthetic materials do not absorb moisture. This prevents the 'wrinkling' effect that can sometimes telegraph through to the shingles above.
Key advantages of synthetic materials include:
- Higher tear strength, providing better protection if shingles are blown off during a storm
- UV resistance, allowing the material to stay exposed during construction without degrading
- Slip-resistant surfaces that improve safety for roofing crews
While the upfront cost of synthetic materials is slightly higher than felt, the long-term durability and moisture protection provide significant value. Most major manufacturers now require synthetic underlayment to qualify for their highest-tier extended warranties.