That slippery synthetic stuff is wild, right? I had a similar moment last fall—thought I was being careful, but one step and I was sliding like I was on a skating rink. My neighbor actually broke his wrist a couple years ago doing the same thing, so now I’m extra cautious. I totally get what you mean about preferring it over felt, though. The last time I had to patch a spot, the old felt just shredded when I tried to lift the shingles. At least the synthetic holds up better in our wet climate.
Have you found any tricks for getting traction up there? I’ve tried those cheap shoe covers with the grippy bottoms, but they didn’t help much once things got damp. Also curious if anyone’s tried those “walkway” mats some roofers use—worth it, or just another thing to trip over?
I keep hoping someone will invent a magic fix for this, but until then, I guess slow and steady wins the race... or at least keeps me off crutches.
That synthetic underlayment really is a double-edged sword—way tougher than felt, but man, it gets slick fast when there’s any moisture. I’ve tried those walkway mats a few times. They help some, but honestly, they can be awkward if you’re moving around a lot or working on a steep pitch. What’s worked best for me is a solid pair of roofing shoes with soft rubber soles—Cougar Paws are popular for a reason, though they’re not cheap. I’d avoid the cheap slip-on covers; they just don’t cut it once things get damp. At the end of the day, slow and steady is still the safest bet... and I always try to plan my work for dry days if I can help it.
- Totally feel you on the “double-edged sword” thing with synthetic underlayment. I did my shed roof last summer and it was like walking on a Slip ‘N Slide after the dew hit.
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— That’s my main problem. I looked at those and my wallet just laughed at me. Anyone found a budget option that’s not total junk?“Cougar Paws are popular for a reason, though they’re not cheap.”
- Tried those slip-on covers once (the kind that look like shower caps for your feet). They lasted about 10 minutes before I nearly ate it coming down the ladder. Never again.
- Mats seem good in theory, but I’m clumsy enough without dragging around extra stuff up there.
- My go-to now: old sneakers with grippy soles + only go up when it’s bone dry... and maybe a little prayer for good measure.
- Still not sure if there’s a safe AND cheap way to do this. Feels like you gotta pick one or the other.
- Anyone else just pay someone else to deal with it? Sometimes I wonder if the peace of mind is worth the hit to my “DIY pride fund.”
Synthetic underlayment is a real mixed bag, I hear you. First time I tried it, I was up on a 7/12 pitch after a light rain, and my boots might as well have been on ice skates. I’ve tried the “budget” grippy shoes too—some of those off-brand roof shoes from the big box store—and honestly, they wore out in a week. Ended up with more duct tape than tread by the end.
I get the appeal of just paying someone else, especially if you’re not up there all the time. I’ve seen too many folks try to save a few bucks and end up with a sprained ankle or worse. For me, it’s worth investing in decent footwear if you’re going to be up there more than once or twice a year. But yeah, those Cougar Paws are pricey. Sometimes I’ll just use an old pair of hiking boots with aggressive soles, but only when it’s bone dry and not a hint of dew.
DIY pride is great, but peace of mind (and not busting your tailbone) is worth something too. There’s no shame in calling in help if it keeps you safe.
I’ve heard a lot of mixed stuff about those Cougar Paws—some folks swear by them, others say they’re not worth the price. I’m still figuring out what’s best for me, honestly. Has anyone tried those slip-on ice cleats or anything similar for synthetic underlayment? I’m always worried about losing traction, especially when there’s even a little moisture. Wondering if there’s a middle ground between pricey pro shoes and just hoping your old boots grip enough.
