12 best roofing underlayment materials
Roofing underlayment materials play a crucial role in the construction and maintenance of roofs. They serve as an additional layer of protection beneath the outer roofing material (such as shingles or tiles) and help safeguard the structure against water infiltration, moisture, and other environmental factors. Here are some key aspects of roofing underlayment materials:
Purpose: Roofing underlayment materials primarily serve as a secondary barrier against moisture. They provide an extra layer of defense beneath the visible roofing material to prevent water from seeping into the structure.
Types of Underlayment: There are several types of roofing underlayment materials, including:
- Asphalt-Saturated Felt: Commonly known as roofing felt, it's one of the traditional underlayment materials and is made from organic or fiberglass materials saturated with asphalt.
- Synthetic Underlayment: These materials are made from synthetic polymers and offer better tear resistance and durability compared to traditional felt.
- Rubberized Asphalt: This type combines asphalt with rubber polymers, providing enhanced waterproofing and flexibility.
- Peel-and-Stick Membrane: These are self-adhesive underlayment sheets that are easy to install and offer strong waterproofing properties.
- Ice and Water Shield: This is a self-adhesive, rubberized underlayment typically used in areas prone to ice dams and heavy rainfall.
Waterproofing: Roofing underlayment materials are designed to be waterproof or highly water-resistant, ensuring that they effectively protect the roof and the underlying structure from water damage.
Durability: The durability of underlayment materials varies depending on the type used. Synthetic underlayments, rubberized asphalt, and peel-and-stick membranes are often more durable and longer-lasting than traditional asphalt-saturated felt.
Installation: Proper installation is critical to the effectiveness of underlayment materials. They are typically installed on the roof deck before the main roofing material (shingles, tiles, etc.) is applied.Installation methods may involve nailing, stapling, or self-adhesive application, depending on the material.
Ventilation: Adequate roof ventilation is important to prevent moisture buildup and prolong the lifespan of both the roofing underlayment and the main roofing material. Proper ventilation helps reduce heat and humidity in the attic space.
Flashing: Roofing underlayment often works in conjunction with flashing, which is a material used to seal and protect roof transitions, joints, and intersections (e.g., around chimneys, vents, and valleys). Properly installed flashing complements underlayment to prevent leaks.
Climate Considerations: The choice of underlayment material may depend on the local climate and weather conditions. Areas with heavy rain, snow, or ice may require more robust underlayment options.
Maintenance: Regular inspections of the roof and underlayment are essential to identify any damage or wear over time. Damaged underlayment should be promptly repaired or replaced to maintain the roof's integrity.
In summary, roofing underlayment materials are a vital component of roofing systems, serving to protect structures from moisture and environmental elements. The choice of underlayment material depends on factors like climate, budget, and durability requirements, and proper installation and maintenance are essential for long-lasting roof protection.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best roofing underlayment materials on the marketProduct description
Tyvek Protec 160 Roof Underlayment 4' x 50' roll covers 2 Square. the 4' x 50' roll size is more manageable for a one man job, for those smaller projects, or when only a few more square are needed. With its industry-leading walk-ability, it is ideal for slopes 2:12 or higher and can be used under a variety of roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, cedar, metal roof cladding, tile or slate. The four-layer construction offers high performance with a slip resistant coating gripping it to the roof, woven polypropylene giving it strength, a water barrier layer, and grooves on the top layer expelling water and dirt to provide a safer work environment. It is wrinkle-free, easy to chalk, protects the roof during installation as a moisture barrier and withstands UV exposure for up to 6 months. It is trusted protection that can give both professional builders and homeowners greater peace of mind.
- synthetic
- Compatible with roof types of asphalt shingles, cedar shingles, metal, tile and slate roofs.
- 40-year limited product replacement warranty for builders, general contractors and Professional installers
- UV-resistance with up to 6-months UV exposure per ASTM D226 Type I & II, ICC-ES AC188; Intertek approved (CCRR-1062), ASTM E108 Class "A" fire rating
- Wrinkle-free, easy to chalk and Industry-leading walkability
- Offers durability and high-performance under even the most demanding conditions
User questions & answers
Question: | Would this be good to use over ridged insulation in cold roof system with slate roof? What is perm rating |
Answer: | Thank you for your question about the Grace Tri-Flex XT 48-in x 250-ft 1000-sq ft Synthetic Roof Underlayment. According to the manufacturer, "Yes. I t can be used under a variety of roof coverings, including tile."Please let us know if you have any other questions or concerns. Thank you again, and have a wonderful day! |
Question: | Will this work on an rv roof over 1/4 luaun glued down then with tpo roofing glued over the top |
Answer: | No. |
Question: | Would this be a good product for a structure insulated panel (SIP) roof |
Answer: | Hello, The Titanium UDL 25 Synthetic Underlayment is currently in stock. Thank you again and have a great day! |
Question: | Is this peel and stick or nail down |
Answer: | No, this product will not deaden sound under a metal roof. it is a thin underlayment material. Base sheet or peel and stick would probably work better for that. |
Product description
DuPont Tyvek Protec 120 Roof Underlayment is an engineered synthetic roofing underlayment with industry-leading walkability. It is ideal for slopes 2:12 or higher and can be used under a variety of roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, cedar or metal roof cladding. The four-layer construction offers high performance with a slip resistant coating gripping it to the roof, woven polypropylene giving it strength, a water barrier layer, and grooves on the top layer expelling water and dirt to provide a safer work environment. It is wrinkle-free, easy to chalk, protects the roof during installation as a moisture barrier and withstands UV exposure for up to 3 months. It is trusted protection that can give both professional builders and homeowners greater peace of mind. WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which is [are] known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Compatible with roofs with asphalt shingles, cedar shingles and metal roofs
- Use for repair, re-roofing and new construction applications
- Trusted quality and durability from DuPont Tyvek
- The unique embossed pattern allows for better traction and grip while walking on the roof
User questions & answers
Question: | What else is needed for installing tyvek protec underlayment |
Answer: | Yes, it will work to protect your wood from water but I believe I remember reading it is not to be used as a vapor wrap. The recommendation is to double up on low pitch roof so keep that in mind. Also, if you get moisture trapped behind it, it might be bad so the wood needs to be dry. You affix with plastic head nails. No glue. |
Question: | Cuanto mide el rollo |
Answer: | Yes, our product will work just fine in this application. |
Question: | can this be used with concrete tile |
Answer: | Yes this would seal exterior wood. I have used it on wood slab benches outside and it’s incredibly slick to walk on when wet. Epoxy is more for boat trim not for sealing docks. You’d be better off with an oil. Plywood bubbles in direct sun when it has moisture in it. Trex it if able. |
Question: | Is this product waterproof |
Answer: | Absolutely. Thats how its supposed to be |
Product description
The four-layer construction allows for excellent grip to the deck, strength of the product to minimize tearing at the fastener points, and good gripability for slip resistance.With 10 squares in every roll, DuPont Roof Protector allows for maximum roof coverage and efficient installation-making it easier to install than roofing felt. As a result, there are fewer overlaps, seams and fasteners, which helps reduce both labor and waste. Superior durability combined with higher thermal stability than roofing felt, enables DuPont Roof Protector to stand up to the toughest conditions.
- Lightweight for easy handling and installation with 90 day UV exposure
- Superior tear resistance compared to roofing felt for increased durability
- Ideal for for sloped (>= 2:12) commercial and residential roofs and roofing applications under asphalt shingles or metal cladding
User questions & answers
Question: | Can this product be used under concrete tile roofing |
Answer: | This product is very strong and has no problem with foot traffic and tools on top of it. Just be careful with cutting tools like utility knives left unsheathed, but that could damage pretty much any underlayment. Hope that helps and would be willing to answer more questions. |
Question: | can you use under wood |
Answer: | Ah...old roofs - such fun. I just pulled up 3 layers if asphalt shingles and the felt under it all. I guess if it were my roof, I wouldn't leave chunks of felt on it and then cover it all up with the Tyvek. Lots of bumps left to upbraid the Tyvek's impermeable shield and depending on what you're using for roofing over top, maybe issues with the lumpiness. Try a roof shovel to get under the felt and get it off, or even a propane torch to soften and loosen up the sticking felt. Its best to have the sheathing clean of old material, nails, etc. before laying down the Tyvek and new roofing. |
Question: | Is this material waterproof? I would like to use it on the floor of a screened in porch. thanks |
Answer: | I used the tyvec under metal roofs and is breathable .i dont know if it is any more durable.it is not cheap but i think it is a great product |
Question: | can it be installed over asphault shingles with a metal roof on top |
Answer: | Hello, Thank you for your interest in the Tyvek Protec 200 Roof Underlayment. For the described application, we would recommend looking into an underlayment that is designed for flooring. Have a great day! |
Product description
DuPont Tyvek Protec 200 Roof Underlayment is an engineered synthetic roofing underlayment with industry-leading walkability. It is ideal for slopes 2:12 or higher and can be used under a variety of roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, cedar or metal roof cladding. The four-layer construction offers high performance with a slip resistant coating gripping it to the roof, woven polypropylene giving it strength, a water barrier layer, and grooves on the top layer expelling water and dirt to provide a safer work environment. It is wrinkle-free, easy to chalk, protects the roof during installation as a moisture barrier and withstands UV exposure for up to 6 months. It is trusted protection that can give both professional builders and homeowners greater peace of mind. Tyvek Protec 200 Roof Underlayment can have up to 6 months UV exposure. WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which is [are] known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Compatible with roofs with asphalt shingles, cedar shingles and metal roofs
- Use for repair, re-roofing and new construction applications
- Trusted quality and durability from DuPont Tyvek
- The unique embossed pattern allows for better traction and grip while walking on the roof
User questions & answers
Question: | How does this compare for durability to newer #40 modified SBS materials |
Answer: | I would not |
Question: | Would it be a good idea to use this to sheath floor joist above crawl space |
Answer: | Yes, this underlayment is waterproof. |
Question: | Can this product be used on walls as well |
Answer: | Yes it will |
Question: | Can I use this underlayment on concrete tiles |
Answer: | Yes, it is textured. |
Product description
SIPA Synthetic Roofing Underlayment 100 GSM is a lightweight synthetic roof underayment designed to enhance the life of a roof system through superior water resistance and UV protection Coil layer is waterproof layer and anti-aging layer, fluctuation two sides is to enhance blinding layer, firm, and reliable, does not have become warped edge, no empty drum, double waterproof, is a new type of waterproof materials. Benefits of 100 GSM Unique Non-Woven Top Surface Fabric Allows For Enhanced Traction Water Resistant Performance Characteristics Exceed ASTM D4533 & D226
- 10 square roll covers 1,000 square feet, 100GSM
- Performance characteristics exceed - ASTM D4869, ASTM D226, TDI Listed CCRR #AC207, FBC Approved #FL17188
- Ultraviolet Exposure for 60 days.
- Ideal for for sloped Commercial and residential roofs and roofing applications under asphalt shingles or metal cladding
- Won’t buckle, warp, or crack , Water resistant
User questions & answers
Question: | Here is a dumb question 4 x 250 == 1000 so we’re did this guy go to school 10 rolls cover a thousand square foot? Please tell me it is a typo thanks |
Answer: | Good morning and thank you for emailing your question about Tyvek. The difference between 160 and 200 is, the 200 comes with a 50-year warranty and is 16.5 mils thick and the 160 comes with a 40-year warranty and is 14.9 mils thick. Thank you and have a great day! |
Question: | Can I use this product to underlaying a "green roof |
Answer: | Hello, Thank you for your interest in the Tyvek Protec Roof Underlayments. Two key differences between the 120 and 160 underlayments are thickness and warranties. The 120 underlayment is 9.76 mils thick, versus the 160's 14.9 mils thickness. The 120 underlayment is complemented by a 30 year warranty. The 160 underlayment has a 40 year warranty. Thank you again and have a great day! |
Product description
DuPont Tyvek Protec 160 Roof Underlayment is an engineered synthetic roofing underlayment with industry-leading walkability. It is ideal for slopes 2:12 or higher and can be used under a variety of roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, cedar or metal roof cladding. The four-layer construction offers high performance with a slip resistant coating gripping it to the roof, woven polypropylene giving it strength, a water barrier layer, and grooves on the top layer expelling water and dirt to provide a safer work environment. It is wrinkle-free, easy to chalk, protects the roof during installation as a moisture barrier and withstands UV exposure for up to 6 months. It is trusted protection that can give both professional builders and homeowners greater peace of mind. WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which is [are] known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Compatible with roofs with asphalt shingles, cedar shingles, tile, slate and metal roofs
- Use for repair, re-roofing and new construction applications
- Preserves the roof deck during installation and provides an effective secondary moisture barrier.
- The unique embossed pattern allows for better traction and grip while walking on the roof
User questions & answers
Question: | What is the difference between the protec 200 and protec |
Answer: | Hello, Thank you for your interest in the Tyvek Protect 200 Roof Underlayment. We would not recommend using this product on vertical surfaces. Thank you again and have a great day! |
Question: | or 160 difference |
Answer: | Hello, Thank you for your interest in the Tyvek Protec 200 Roof Underlayment. Yes, this underlayment can be used with tiles. Thank you again and have a great day! |
Question: | Can this be used as a temporary padding on top of a TPO roof membrane for protection from foot traffic, tools, equipment |
Answer: | I recommend roofing cap nails if your planing on walking on it. |
Question: | I got 30# felt that is essentially glued to the sheathing. Can I just pull off what I can and cover the rest |
Answer: | Hola, Gracias por su pregunta sobre la base de techo Tyvek Protec 120. Este rollo tiene 250 pies de largo. ¡Gracias y que tengas un buen día! |
Product description
10 square roll. With 1,000 square feet per roll weighing less than 25lbs, installation is much easier than traditional felt with much better results. ArmorLay synthetic underlayment compared to felt underlayment is 5 times stronger, 5 times lighter, and 5 times more coverage with one roll. Suited for use with all asphalt-based composite roof shingles, steep slope roof applications, as well as metal roof applications. Meets performance characteristics ASTM D4869 and ASTM D226 Standards. 60 Day exposure to UV. Slip resistant polymer applied to the bottom surface. Unique textured fabric allows for steep slope walkability. Won't buckle, warp, or crack.
- 10 square roll covers 1,000 square feet
- Meets performance characteristics ASTM D4869 and ASTM D226 Standards
- 60 Day exposure to UV
- Slip resistant polymer applied to the bottom surface. Unique textured fabric allows for steep slope walk-ability
- Won’t buckle, warp, or crack , Water resistant
User questions & answers
Question: | Will this work on a low slant metal roof |
Answer: | I purchased a concrete primer from Home depot it was a blue sealer. Honestly you will be fine with skipping that step and using a paint and primer in one then using the epoxy and a tinted powder and final coat just the clear epoxy. This product has a gloss effect once completed and I love it! |
Question: | Is this semi-textured? If i paint it for instance would the paint have something to hold to or is it just smooth |
Answer: | Does not mix or perform well in the 60s. Ideally 70s 80s or 90s. The item and the Epoxy should be close to the same temperature. The epoxy is the sealer and does not need to be sealed with anything else it is waterproof |
Question: | Will this work as wood building wrap for like “remainder of the cold season until I can put siding on the building? And does this product glue or nail |
Answer: | Once the product is hard, then absolutely. |
Question: | Will silicone roof adhere to this if I roll over the top of it |
Answer: | The product can take up to 72 hours to completely cure, depending on the thickness. Once that is done, you are all set! Thinner coats will cure quicker. |
Product description
The Hydroshield 50 year underlayment is 100% synthetic woven with a cool grey spunbond non-woven fabric surface. This underlayment keeps you PROTECTED BY THE SHIELD as it offers high tear strengths and a slip-resistant, non-woven backing made of Aqua Trak and coated with a tacky, back-side, slip resistant coating for additional walking traction and installation safety. Hydroshield 50 is also UV resistant and can remain uncovered for up to 6 months. Also, depending on the pitch of the roof and surface conditions, it is recommended that roof jacks, toe-boards or a storage platform be secured to support roofing materials placed on the roof.
- Slip resistant back surface for added installation safety
- UV resistant and can be left exposed for up to 6 months
- Pre-printed nailing pattern and overlap lines speeds installation
- 50 year warranty – guaranteed to shed water
- Roll Length: 250 lineal feet, Roll Width: 48in., Weight Per Square: 2.0 lbs
User questions & answers
Question: | can we use this with peek and stick shingles |
Answer: | It comes with one bracket. NOT two! The box has a place to pack two of them. |
Question: | Can this product be used on tile roof |
Answer: | The edges extend about 2 inches only. In my opinion, you would be better off getting the Jawstand XP, RK9034. It is an adjustable stand for cutting/working on longer pieces of work or it adjust vertically and can be used to hold something in place while you attach it etc. Basically its like having a second set of hands to help you but doesn't argue with you or tell you to hurry because they're getting tired. Highly recommend this piece of equipment. Good luck. |
Question: | South Florida/ Miami-Dade approved |
Answer: | If you plan on using it for cutting large pieces the 48 is perfect. But I use it for a lot of different stuff and for the extra bucks for the 48 I felt it will be more versatile if I need it. Its like you said they're the same except for the 48 vs 36 . |
Question: | Can this be used under tin roof |
Answer: | I changed the design of mine and put a swivel in the center so it could spin. In doing so I decreased the amount of weight it can support but it still can easily support 200 lbs. I believe the 440 pound claim is accurate but definitely at the limit. |
Question: | Can this be used in place of Tyvek side wrap |
Answer: | The swing brackets come with the set |
Question: | Is this product self-adhesive |
Answer: | If you ordered through Amazon I would contact Amazon for help. |
Question: | could this be used under bamboo flooring to help level out |
Answer: | Yes, you can switch the swings as you prefer. You can put other swings on this such as a pod swing. |
Question: | What type of mortar should be used to adhere this product to a wood sub floor? Modified or unmodified |
Answer: | There are 2 circles welded to the top bar. You will need a hook or something to attach the swing chain to the circles. |
Question: | Is this a water proofing membrane |
Answer: | Honestly I feel it ok, my hunsband and I did the job together like 30 mins? Frame is super sturdy. Good one. |
Question: | Can I use this over my plywood subfloor |
Answer: | Yes, It is a very sturdy set even without securing it into the ground. I was really surprised as to how sturdy it is. If you put it on your deck I would still suggest you find a way to secure it to the ground. Like any set it could tip if not secured when kids are swinging too high. Hope this helps |
Product description
GAF Roofing Underlayment Roll 1000 sq. ft. Corrosion Tear Resistant Synthetic
Details:
- Coverage Area (sq. ft.): 1000
- Product Width (in.): 48 in
- Unrolled length (ft.): 250
- Color Grey
- Material Felt
- Quality roofing underlayment is critical for helping to prevent wind-driven rain from infiltrating under the roof's Shingles and potentially damaging the home's structure and interior. Traditional asphalt felt underlayments tear easily and absorb moisture, leading to wrinkling that telegraphs through the Shingles. Competitively priced with typical #15 and #30 asphalt felts, GAF FeltBuster High-Traction Synthetic Roofing Felt is virtually untearable and will not absorb moisture, helping to prevent wrinkling.
- Corrosion Tear Resistant Synthetic
- Roofing Underlayment Roll 1000 sq. ft.
- Product Width (in.): 48 in
- Unrolled length (ft.): 250
- Coverage Area (sq. ft.): 1000
User questions & answers
Question: | Can this be used on top of “water and ice” layment |
Answer: | Yes, you can put your table saw in the Jawhorse, but you'll need to secure the saw to a piece of plywood. One reviewer mentioned using 1/2" stock, but I would suggest using a piece of 3/4" plywood since it will be a heavier and a more stable platform for your saw. Either way, you shouldn't encounter any problems using the Jawhorse as table for your saw. Once your saw is mounted, push and pull on the plywood to make certain it is secure and there's no slop or movement. Let me know how it turns out for you. |
Product description
225 sqft roll, ice & water shield, self-adhered membrane forms a watertight seal around roof fasteners, apply at eaves & in detail areas to prevent leaks caused by ice dams & on the whole roof to prevent leaks caused by wind driven rain, roll dimension: 36 in. x 75 ft. (225 sq. ft.) , upc: 048444000002.
Grace Ice & Water Shield self-adhered roofing underlayment is a premier membrane composed of two waterproofing materials—an aggressive rubberized asphalt adhesive backed by a layer of slip resistant coated high density cross laminated polyethylene film. The rubberized asphalt surface is backed with a foldless release paper that protects its adhesive quality. During application, the release paper is easily removed, allowing the rubberized asphalt to bond tightly to the roof deck. The Ripcord embedded in the adhesive provides the applicator a “split release on demand” feature.
Grace Ice & Water Shield is a versatile underlayment material that may be used on sloped roofs, under mechanically attached roof coverings such as asphalt shingles, slate, tile, cedar, and standing seam metal in many climate and assembly conditions (see limitations for additional information).
Grace Ice & Water Shield is supplied in 3 ft wide rolls of varying lengths. Membrane strips are also available in 75 ft (22.9 m) long rolls at widths of 6 in. (150 mm), 9 in. (225 mm), 12 in. (300 mm) and 18 in. (450 mm). See the Product Data chart for product information.
- Protects against ice dams and wind driven rain
- This product is highly durable
- This product is manufactured in China
- Forms superior water-tight laps
- High quality seal around fasteners
User questions & answers
Question: | do you have to cover this with something else |
Answer: | Just 1 |
Question: | Can this be used on fondation wall |
Answer: | We purchased 2, you are right, one is not useful! |
Question: | how thick is this? mil |
Answer: | there are 4 holes; two at each end. The pairs are 26 inches apart from each other. The pairs at each end are 1/34 inches apart. There is a carry handle on top in the middle, but I ran full length 2x 4 and covered the carry handles. No big deal, I only carry them from my truck to the nearby jobsite anyway, |
Question: | I installed this to repair a roof and it is exposed to the sun. How long should I expect it to last |
Answer: | NO. they have raw metal edges. |
Product description
The Grace Tri-Flex XT is a woven, synthetic, water-shedding underlayment that is high performance. It is more than 20 times stronger than #30 felt. Tri-Flex XT is coated on both sides with a new and enhanced coating formulation made up of slip-resistant polymer for exceptional foot traction. This membrane is tough and weather-resistant and is constructed to function in the harshest weather circumstances in North America. Tri-Flex XT is also built to withstand high wind conditions while also covering more area and being lighter than #30 felt. This underlayment can be used in combination with GCP self-adhered underlayments and is mechanically attached to the roof. It also provides a reliable base for the application of roof coverings that are mechanically attached. This membrane serves as a secondary watershed to prohibit leaks if water penetrates the main roof covering.
- Stronger and more durable and can be left exposed for up to 180 days or 6 months.
- Suitable for use under all major roof coverings.
- Facilitates faster and easier installation.
- Lighter and covers more area.
- Improved Slip Resistant Coating.
User questions & answers
Question: | Can it be used on concrete |
Answer: | Hello, According to the Installation Instructions from the manufacturer, it states - "For same day coverage with primary roofing UDL25 can be anchored with corrosive resistant 3/8” head x 1” leg roofing nails (ring shank preferred, smooth leg acceptable). The use of every other anchoring location printed on the product is also acceptable. DO NOT USE STAPLES: use of staples to penetrate UDL25 will void warranty." |
Question: | How thick is this underlayment |
Answer: | Please use cap nail not coil nail |
Question: | Can it be used for concrete roof tile |
Answer: | sure you can. Thank you for asking. |
Question: | Grace tri-flex xt 48-in x 250-ft is this self sticking |
Answer: | Sure GREAT PRODUCT |
Latest Reviews
View all
Battery For Standby Generator
- Updated: 04.07.2023
- Read reviews

Golf Instruction Dvds
- Updated: 29.01.2023
- Read reviews

Hex Bolts
- Updated: 28.03.2023
- Read reviews

Plant Therapy Essential Oils Plant Therapy Essential Oils Essential Oil Carrying Cases
- Updated: 14.02.2023
- Read reviews

Sf Fly Reels
- Updated: 27.01.2023
- Read reviews