I totally get the temptation to stick with what’s tried and true, especially when you’re staring down a big bill. But I went with synthetic on my place last summer—honestly, mostly because my neighbor had a nightmare with felt blowing off during a storm before he got the shingles on. Made me nervous since I’m in a pretty windy spot. The upfront cost stung a bit, but the peace of mind was worth it for me, knowing I wouldn’t be chasing black tar paper around the yard if we got hit with a gust.
I do worry about the warranty stuff, though. There’s a lot of fine print, and I’m not convinced most folks (me included) are following every single step perfectly. Still, I noticed the synthetic was easier to work with—lighter to haul up and it didn’t tear as easy when I was crawling around up there. If I’d had a bigger roof or tighter budget, maybe I’d have felt different.
I guess it comes down to how fast you can get shingles on and what your weather’s like. If you’re fast and it’s not super windy, felt probably makes sense. If not, synthetic might save you some headaches—even if your wallet feels it first.
I noticed the synthetic was easier to work with—lighter to haul up and it didn’t tear as easy when I was crawling around up there.
That’s been my experience too. When we did a re-roof last fall, the synthetic rolls were way easier to manage, especially on a steeper pitch. Didn’t have to worry about it ripping if I shifted my weight wrong. One thing I’d add—if you’re in a spot where rain is unpredictable, synthetic buys you more time. Our project got delayed by a week and the underlayment held up fine, no bubbling or leaks.
But I’m still not 100% sold on the “better over time” argument. Felt’s been around forever and if you get shingles on quick, it does the job. The cost difference is real, especially if you’re covering a big area. For smaller jobs or if you’re doing it yourself, synthetic’s convenience is hard to beat.
Warranty stuff is a headache either way—so much depends on install details most folks don’t even think about (like nail spacing or overlaps). If you’re not following the book, both types can get you in trouble with claims. Just my two cents from being up there sweating through both options...
Warranty stuff is a headache either way—so much depends on install details most folks don’t even think about (like nail spacing or overlaps).
Nailed it—literally. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen “premium” synthetic slapped on with staples every foot or two and then folks wonder why it leaks. Honestly, I like synthetic for the “oops, rain’s coming” factor, but if you’re in a dry climate and moving fast, felt does the trick. Just watch those overlaps... seen more than one waterfall in an attic from that mistake.
I’ve wondered about this too, especially since I’m on a budget and every roofer seems to have a different opinion. My last place had felt under shingles for almost 15 years—no leaks, but we’re in the desert, so maybe that helped. Now, with all the hype around synthetic, I’m tempted, but is it really worth the extra cost if you’re not dealing with heavy storms? And does anyone actually check nail spacing after install? I feel like that’s where things go sideways…
And does anyone actually check nail spacing after install? I feel like that’s where things go sideways…
Nail spacing gets overlooked way too often, honestly. Even the best underlayment won’t help if it’s not fastened right. Curious—what kind of shingles are you using? Some synthetics work better with certain types, especially in hotter climates.