Honestly, I think a lot comes down to the crew and how careful they are during install and any later work.
I get what you’re saying about install crews making a difference, but I’ve seen brittle tiles crack even when everyone’s being careful. Sometimes it’s just the batch or how long they sat in the yard before install. And about underlayment—felt’s not perfect, but I’ve seen it hold up longer than some synthetics, especially if there’s a leak and it gets a little wet. Just my two cents from poking around a lot of attics...
That’s interesting about felt underlayment lasting longer in some cases. I’ve crawled through a few old houses after hailstorms and sometimes the felt’s the only thing keeping water out, even when the tiles are toast. But I’ve also seen synthetic hold up after a big branch punched right through clay tiles. Anyone else notice certain brands getting more brittle if they sit outside too long? I’m wondering if it’s just sun exposure or something in the manufacturing process...
I’ve noticed that too—some synthetic underlayments just don’t handle sun exposure well, especially if the rolls sit on-site for a couple weeks before install. I’m not convinced it’s all just UV either. I’ve had a few batches from “reputable” brands wind up brittle and almost flaky after being left out, even when the weather wasn’t that harsh. Could be something in the resin mix or fillers they use to cut costs.
On the flip side, I’ve seen old-school 30lb felt hang on for dear life under busted tile and keep a place dry way longer than it should. Not saying felt is perfect—if it gets wet before install, forget about it—but there’s something to be said for the way it degrades slowly instead of snapping like a cracker. Synthetics are lighter and easier to work with, but if they’re not stored right, you’re gambling.
Far as brands, I’ve had decent luck with Boral and Eagle for tile, but honestly, even the best tile won’t do much if the underlayment fails. Out here in the Southwest, the sun cooks everything, so storage and install timing matter a lot. I always tell folks: if the supplier left the rolls out in the yard for weeks, don’t expect miracles.
You’re right to look at both material and how it’s handled on-site. Manufacturing shortcuts are getting more common, so even big names can put out a bad batch. Wouldn’t hurt to ask your supplier how long their stock’s been sitting around... sometimes you get a straight answer, sometimes you don’t, but it beats finding out after a hailstorm.
That’s interesting about the underlayment. I actually ran into a similar issue when we replaced our roof last year—synthetic rolls left out for just a few days got weirdly stiff, and the roofer said it happens more than people think. I ended up going with Eagle tiles and made sure the underlayment was fresh off the pallet. Haven’t had any problems so far, but I’m in SoCal where the sun’s brutal too. I do wonder if the old felt would’ve lasted longer, but the weight was a dealbreaker for us.
That’s a good call on the fresh underlayment, especially with SoCal heat. I’ve seen synthetic stuff get brittle fast if it’s left out—UV exposure does a number on it. Eagle’s been solid in my experience, though Boral’s not bad either if you want options. Old-school felt can last, but yeah, the weight isn’t worth it for most tile installs these days. If your roof’s holding up and you haven’t had leaks, I’d say you made the right tradeoff.
