- Seen the same thing with synthetics—if you get a big wind before shingles go on, it’s a gamble. Had one job where half the underlayment was flapping like a flag after a thunderstorm. Felt isn’t perfect, but it usually stays put if you nail it right.
- Those “grip” synthetics are popping up more around here (Midwest). They’re definitely less slick, which helps on steeper roofs, but I still worry about wind. If you’re roofing in a spot with unpredictable weather, I’d stick with felt unless you can shingle right away.
- Lifetime warranties sound great until you’re up there redoing underlayment after a storm... learned that the hard way.
I get where you’re coming from on the underlayment, but I’ve actually had better luck with synthetics—at least the higher-end ones. Had a stretch last spring where we got hit with back-to-back storms, and the synthetic held up way better than the old felt ever did on my other properties. Maybe it’s just the brand or how it was fastened, but I haven’t had to chase down loose sheets nearly as much. That said, I do agree, if you can’t get shingles on quick, it’s always a bit of a gamble no matter what you use. Weather just doesn’t care about warranties or marketing claims...
Weather just doesn’t care about warranties or marketing claims...
Ain’t that the truth. I’ve seen “lifetime” underlayments shredded after one bad windstorm, so I’m with you—nothing’s bulletproof if the weather’s angry enough. I do think the higher-end synthetics have come a long way, though. The grip is better, and they don’t wrinkle up like felt when it gets damp. Still, I always wonder about the environmental side of it. Some of those synthetics are basically plastic, and I haven’t found much info on how they break down over time (if at all).
Curious if you’ve noticed any difference in how the composite shingles themselves hold up with synthetic vs. felt underneath? I’ve heard some folks say the underlayment can actually affect shingle lifespan, but I’m not sure if that’s just marketing or if there’s something to it. My last job, we used a recycled-fiber underlayment—supposedly greener—but it was a pain to install and didn’t seem any tougher than felt. Anyone else tried those?
That’s interesting about the recycled-fiber stuff. I’ve only ever used felt or synthetic, and honestly, I can’t say I noticed a huge difference in how the shingles themselves aged—at least over the first 10 years. Did you see any impact on leaks or curling? I keep hearing claims that synthetics “breathe” better, but I’m not sure if that’s hype or if it actually helps in humid spots.
- Had a similar debate when I re-roofed last year. Ended up going with composite shingles made from recycled fibers—partly for the eco angle, but also because my neighbor swore by them after a rough storm season.
- In my case (humid summers, lots of rain), I did notice less curling compared to the old asphalt ones. No leaks so far, but it’s only been about 6 years.
- About the “breathing” thing... I was skeptical too. But after a couple muggy summers, the attic seemed less stuffy and I didn’t get that musty smell as much. Could be coincidence, or maybe it’s just better ventilation overall.
- One thing: installation matters a ton. My friend used synthetics but had issues because the crew rushed it and didn’t seal around vents right—so leaks happened anyway.
- Cost was a bit higher up front, but I’m hoping the longer lifespan and less landfill waste will balance it out over time.
- Not saying synthetics are magic, but in my climate, they’ve held up better than the old-school felt/asphalt combo. If you’re in a dry spot, maybe it’s less noticeable? Just my two cents...
