That’s actually super reassuring to hear. I’ve been stressing about whether I should splurge on the “premium” underlayment or just focus on getting the install right. Sounds like careful overlaps and fastening make a bigger difference than the label on the roll. I’m in the Midwest too, so those storms are no joke… Appreciate the reminder that it’s not all about fancy materials—sometimes just taking your time pays off.
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ll be honest—after a couple Midwest hailstorms, I started springing for the pricier stuff.
Sure, install matters, but my last “budget” underlayment didn’t hold up when we had ice dams. Sometimes that extra layer of protection is worth it, especially with our weather swings.“it’s not all about fancy materials—sometimes just taking your time pays off.”
I hear you on the weather swings—Midwest can be brutal. But I’d say it’s not always about paying more for “premium” underlayment. Here’s what’s worked for me: first, I make sure to overlap the seams more than the minimum, especially around valleys and eaves. Second, I use ice and water shield just along the edges where the ice dams usually form, then a decent felt or synthetic for the rest. That combo has held up on my 1950s ranch, even through last winter’s freeze-thaw mess. Maybe it’s less about the price tag and more about layering smart?
Layering smart really does make a difference. I’ve got a 1960s split-level in northern Illinois, and after a few rough winters, I started doubling up the ice and water shield at the eaves and valleys too. Didn’t go for the priciest underlayment either—just made sure everything was sealed tight. Haven’t had any leaks since, even with all the freeze-thaw cycles we get. Sometimes it’s more about attention to detail than buying top-shelf materials, at least in my experience.
That’s a solid approach, especially with the double layer at the eaves and valleys. I’ve noticed that even with mid-range underlayment, if you overlap everything right and seal the edges, you’re way ahead of the game. Sometimes folks get caught up in buying the fanciest stuff, but like you said, it’s the install details that really matter. I’ve seen some high-end jobs fail just because someone rushed the seams or skipped a step. Your method sounds spot on for our Midwest winters.
