I’ve been tempted by recycled options too, honestly. It just feels better to use something greener. But I keep getting hung up on the same thing—Midwest freeze/thaw is brutal. I tried a recycled underlayment on my shed roof as a test (not my house, just in case), and after one winter, it started curling at the edges. Maybe they’ve improved since then? Synthetic’s not perfect, but at least it held up for me when we got that weird April snowstorm last year... Anyone else actually stuck with recycled for a few years in Iowa or nearby?
I get where you’re coming from—Midwest winters are no joke. I’ve seen a lot of “eco” underlayments claim to handle freeze/thaw, but in reality, most of them just can’t keep up with the constant expansion and contraction. The curling you mentioned is exactly what I’ve seen on a few jobs, especially on north-facing slopes where the sun doesn’t help dry things out.
I’m all for greener options, but if it’s not holding up, it’s not really sustainable in the long run. Synthetic underlayment isn’t perfect (I’ve had some brands get slick as ice when wet), but at least it doesn’t turn brittle or peel up after a couple of seasons. I haven’t seen any recycled product last more than two winters around here—maybe someone else has, but I’d be skeptical until there’s more real-world proof.
If you’re set on recycled, maybe try it on a detached garage or something low-risk first. Otherwise, I’d stick with synthetic for now, especially with how unpredictable our weather’s been lately.
I’m right there with you on the recycled stuff—looked great on paper, but after one winter, I had to patch a few spots where it started curling. For those using synthetic, do you notice any weird smells or off-gassing when it gets hot out? That’s my main hesitation.
Honestly, I get the concern about synthetic off-gassing, but in my case, it hasn’t been an issue. I went with a mid-range synthetic two years ago—no weird smells, even during last summer’s heatwave. For me, the bigger problem was felt underlayment soaking up moisture and tearing way too fast. Synthetic cost a bit more upfront, but I haven’t had to mess with repairs since. If you’re worried about chemicals, maybe check the specs for low-VOC options? Some brands are better than others on that front.
- My wallet cried a little when I saw the price tag on synthetic, but honestly, it’s held up way better than the old felt stuff I used to patch every spring.
- Didn’t notice any funky smells either, and I’ve got a nose like a bloodhound (kids complain about it all the time).
- Only thing is, installation was a bit trickier—felt’s easier to cut, but synthetic doesn’t rip if you sneeze at it.
- If you’re on a tight budget, I’d say check for sales or leftover rolls at supply stores... sometimes you get lucky.
- Not sure about the chemical thing—my dog still naps on the roof, so I figure we’re good?
