I’ve seen this play out more times than I can count. People obsess over what shingle to pick, but then ignore the attic, ventilation, or even basic flashing details. I manage a bunch of properties—some with “premium” roofs that still have leaks or ice dams every winter, and others with basic three-tabs holding up just fine because the attic’s tight and the airflow’s dialed in. It’s almost funny how often the expensive stuff gets wasted on bad prep.
That said, I wouldn’t say shingle type is totally irrelevant. Composite shingles are getting better—some of the newer ones have impressive hail ratings and warranties. But if you’re in a spot with wild temperature swings or heavy snow, nothing beats making sure your attic’s sealed off from warm air leaks and your soffit vents aren’t choked with insulation. I’ve had tenants crank up the heat in winter, then call me about mystery leaks... nine times out of ten it’s condensation from poor venting, not the roof itself.
One thing I’d add: don’t overlook underlayment. I had a place where we splurged on high-end shingles but cheaped out on the underlayment—big mistake. When a windstorm hit, water got under a lifted shingle and we ended up with ceiling stains anyway. Since then, I always push for synthetic underlayment, especially if the roof pitch isn’t super steep.
In my experience, you get way more bang for your buck by focusing on the “boring” stuff—ventilation, insulation, flashing—than by chasing the fanciest shingle on the market. The roof is a system, not just what you see from the curb. It’s not glamorous, but it works.
I’ve seen the same thing—folks drop big money on “lifetime” shingles, but then ignore the basics. Had a client last spring, gorgeous composite roof, but they skipped ice & water shield at the eaves. First thaw, water’s dripping into the kitchen. Makes me wonder, have you found any particular underlayment that actually holds up when things go sideways? I’ve tried a few synthetics but can’t say I’m loyal to one brand yet.
I’ve tried a few synthetics but can’t say I’m loyal to one brand yet.
Not sure I buy into all the hype around synthetics. Tried a couple “premium” rolls and they still tore up at the valleys after one bad windstorm. Honestly, old-school 30# felt has held up better for me than some of the newer brands. Maybe it’s just luck, but I’m not convinced the latest stuff is always worth the extra cash.
Honestly, old-school 30# felt has held up better for me than some of the newer brands.
- Felt’s definitely got a track record. I’ve seen it outlast some synthetics, especially on jobs where the roof sat open for a while before shingles went on.
- Synthetics are lighter and easier to handle, but I’ve had a couple tear up in high winds too. Some brands just don’t seem as tough as they claim.
- On steep slopes, synthetics can be a pain—slippery as heck when you’re walking them. Felt gives a bit more grip, at least in my experience.
- That said, I’ve had good luck with synthetic underlayment on bigger roofs where speed matters. Rolls are longer, so fewer seams to worry about.
- Price-wise, felt’s usually cheaper up front, but some synthetics claim longer warranties. Not sure how much that matters if the stuff rips before you even get shingles down.
Curious if you’re in a spot with a lot of wind or just got unlucky with that storm? Around here (Midwest), we get gusts that’ll test any underlayment. I’ve started double-lapping valleys no matter what I use—seems to help.
Anyone else notice certain brands holding up better than others, or is it all just marketing?
I’ve definitely run into the same issue with synthetics tearing in wind, especially if there’s a delay before shingling. Last fall, I inspected a place where the synthetic underlayment had pulled loose in a couple of spots after a storm rolled through—looked like it just couldn’t handle the gusts. The felt on the other side of the roof was still holding tight, even though it was older.
On the flip side, I get why folks like synthetics for big roofs. Less time rolling it out, and you’re not stopping to reset as often. But I’m always a little wary of those “lifetime” warranties... they sound good, but if the material doesn’t actually stay put until the shingles are on, what’s the point?
Curious—has anyone here tried one of those newer “grip” synthetics that claim to be less slippery? I haven’t seen them much in my area (Northeast), but I’d be interested if they actually make a difference on steeper pitches.
