Sometimes the “latest and greatest” just means more expensive headaches if the crew cuts corners.
That’s been my experience too. I’ve seen fancy synthetics wrinkle up or tear because someone rushed the job. Meanwhile, old-school felt just keeps hanging in there if it’s put down right. Details really do make or break it.
Meanwhile, old-school felt just keeps hanging in there if it’s put down right.
I’ve patched up more than a few roofs after storms where the only thing holding back leaks was that old felt. One job, the shingles were half gone but the felt underneath was still doing its job—probably because the installer took their time. I get why folks like synthetics, but if you don’t lay them flat or fasten them right, they can bunch up or even rip in high winds. Sometimes “new and improved” just means more ways for things to go sideways if you’re not careful.
Funny thing—I’ve seen both felt and synthetics hold up, but it really does come down to how careful you are with the install. I’ll admit, I’m partial to the newer recycled-fiber underlayments, especially when you’re trying to keep things eco-friendly and still want decent water resistance. But yeah, if you rush it or skip a few fasteners, even the fanciest stuff can flap around like a loose tarp in a storm. Sometimes the “old ways” stick around for a reason...
I’ve had a similar experience—recycled-fiber underlayments are my go-to these days, mostly because I feel better about the environmental impact. That said, I learned the hard way that if you don’t overlap and fasten properly, even the “green” stuff can let you down. Had a section peel up during a windy week last fall... lesson learned. The old felt rolls are forgiving, but man, they’re heavy and messy to haul around.
I hear you on the weight of felt—lugging those rolls up a ladder is no joke. I’ve had better luck with synthetic underlayments lately, especially in our wet springs, but I’m still not sure how they’ll hold up long-term. Anyone tried both on a low-slope roof? I wonder if one handles pooling water better than the other...