I’ve had similar issues with felt just not holding up, especially when storms roll through before you can get shingles down. Last year, I tried a lighter synthetic (maybe 30 mil?) on a detached garage, and it was a mixed bag. It didn’t tear like felt, but after a week of Texas sun and a couple of downpours, it started curling at the edges. Not a total fail, but I wouldn’t trust it for more than a couple weeks exposed.
Peel-and-stick is a beast, though. I put it on a porch roof as a stopgap, and it sat there for almost two months—hail, 100-degree days, you name it. Only thing is, once it’s baked on, it’s basically permanent. If you ever need to redo decking or fix a mistake, it’s a pain to get off.
If I had to rank them for “race to the finish,” I’d say felt is out first, then the thinner synthetics, then the heavy synthetics, and peel-and-stick is the last one standing. But yeah, walkability is a whole other story... I’ve nearly wiped out more than once on those slick synthetics after a rain.
I get the appeal of peel-and-stick for durability, but honestly, I’m not convinced it’s always worth the hassle. When I was redoing my shed roof, I went with a heavy synthetic (I think it was 60 mil?) and left it exposed for almost three weeks. It handled some pretty nasty wind and rain—no curling or tearing, and it was way easier to move around on than the thinner stuff. Didn’t have the “permanent glue” problem either, which was a relief when I realized I’d misaligned a row and had to pull it up.
I get that peel-and-stick is basically bulletproof once it’s down, but if you’re not 100% sure about your decking or layout, it feels risky. Plus, the cost was way higher at my local supplier. Maybe it’s different in other climates, but for me, the heavy synthetics seem like a good middle ground. Walkability is still sketchy after rain, though—almost ate it stepping off a ladder last fall. Anyone else feel like the “grip” claims on the packaging are just marketing?
Walkability is still sketchy after rain, though—almost ate it stepping off a ladder last fall. Anyone else feel like the “grip” claims on the packaging are just marketing?
Had a similar moment last spring—misjudged a slick spot on my neighbor’s roof and nearly slid right off. I know the synthetics are supposed to be “grippy,” but in my experience, nothing beats a good pair of sticky-soled shoes and taking it slow. I do see your point about peel-and-stick being risky if you’re not 100% on your layout, but I’ve found it’s been a lifesaver on my old farmhouse where leaks were a constant battle. Once it’s down, I don’t have to worry about water sneaking in at the seams. Price is steep, yeah, but for tricky valleys or low-slope spots, I’ll pay the extra just for peace of mind.
I hear you on the peace of mind with peel-and-stick, especially where water likes to sneak in. On my last job, the synthetic felt looked grippy enough—until a quick drizzle turned it into an ice rink. I still remember sliding halfway down before catching myself on a vent. Maybe it’s just me, but I’d trade some “walkability” for better long-term leak protection any day. Curious if anyone’s used any of the newer recycled-content underlayments? I’m trying to go greener, but haven’t seen much real-world feedback yet.
Peel-and-stick definitely wins for leak protection, but yeah, you’re not kidding about the “skating rink” effect with some synthetics when they’re wet. I’ve seen more than one guy do the unintentional slide—never pretty. As for the recycled-content stuff, I’ve only come across it a couple times on new builds. It looked promising, but honestly, I’m still a little skeptical about how it’ll hold up after a few freeze-thaw cycles. Maybe it’s just old habits, but I’d rather trust something with a track record than be the guinea pig. Still, if it actually performs and keeps junk out of landfills, I’m all for it.