Yeah, climate definitely matters. Up here in Michigan, I've seen roofs with the cheapest felt underlayment last decades without issues—probably because humidity isn't as relentless. My neighbor swears by premium synthetic stuff, but honestly, his roof looks exactly like mine after 15 years. Makes me wonder if we're sometimes just paying extra for peace of mind...or marketing hype. Still, if I lived somewhere swampy or hurricane-prone, I'd probably splurge too.
You're spot-on about climate playing a huge role. I've inspected roofs in various regions, and honestly, in drier or cooler climates like yours, basic felt underlayment often holds up surprisingly well. Premium synthetics do offer better tear resistance and moisture protection, but if you're not facing constant humidity or extreme weather, the difference can be minimal. Sometimes the extra cost is just insurance against worst-case scenarios...and marketing definitely plays a part. Sounds like you've made a practical choice for your situation.
Yeah, climate definitely makes a difference. I've seen felt hold up fine in areas with moderate weather too, but one thing I've noticed is that installation quality matters just as much. Even premium synthetic underlayment won't save you if it's installed poorly or rushed. Had a job last year where the homeowner paid extra for top-tier synthetic, but the crew rushed it and left seams poorly taped...ended up leaking anyway. Sometimes attention to detail beats expensive materials, honestly.
"Sometimes attention to detail beats expensive materials, honestly."
Haha, totally true. Reminds me of when my brother-in-law bragged about getting the fanciest underlayment money could buy...then proceeded to staple it down like a kid pinning posters. Guess what leaked first rainstorm? Yep, his "premium" roof.
Reminds me of when my brother-in-law bragged about getting the fanciest underlayment money could buy...then proceeded to staple it down like a kid pinning posters.
Haha, stapling premium underlayment...ouch. I've seen similar things happen—people dropping big bucks on high-end membranes but then skimping on proper sealing or flashing details. Honestly, even mid-range synthetic underlayments can perform amazingly if installed right. It's all about technique and patience. I always tell folks, "Your roof is only as good as your weakest seam." Seems your brother-in-law learned that the hard way!
