Synthetic vs. Composite Felt Paper: Which is Better for Your Roof?

When it comes to roofing underlayment, choosing the right material is crucial for the longevity and performance of your roof. Two popular options are synthetic and composite felt paper. Both have their own set of advantages, but which one is better for your specific needs? Let’s dive into the differences to help you make an informed decision.

Synthetic Felt Paper

Synthetic felt paper is a modern alternative to traditional roofing underlayment. Made from polypropylene or polyethylene, it’s designed to be lightweight, durable, and resistant to tearing and moisture. Here’s why you might consider it:

• Durability: Synthetic felt is much more resistant to tearing and damage than traditional felt paper, especially during installation. This makes it an excellent choice for areas with extreme weather conditions.

• Water Resistance: It provides superior water resistance, helping to protect your roof deck from moisture penetration and potential rot.

• Lightweight and Easy to Install: Being lighter than composite felt, synthetic underlayment is easier to handle and install. This can lead to quicker installation times and lower labor costs.

• UV Protection: Many synthetic felts offer UV resistance, allowing them to be exposed for longer periods before the final roofing material is installed.

Composite Felt Paper

Composite felt paper, often known as asphalt-saturated felt, has been a go-to underlayment choice for decades. It’s made by saturating paper or fiberglass mat with asphalt, making it water-resistant and relatively durable. Here are some of its benefits:

• Affordability: Composite felt paper is generally less expensive than synthetic underlayment, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious projects.

• Proven Track Record: With a long history in the roofing industry, composite felt paper is a tried-and-true product that many contractors trust.

• Good Performance: While it might not match synthetic options in terms of durability or water resistance, composite felt still provides adequate protection for many roofing applications.

• Availability: Composite felt is widely available and easy to source for most roofing projects.

Which is Better?

The answer depends on your specific roofing needs and budget. If you’re looking for a more durable, long-lasting underlayment and are willing to invest a bit more, synthetic felt paper is likely the better choice. Its resistance to tearing, superior water protection, and ease of installation make it a top pick for many modern roofing projects.

On the other hand, if you’re working within a tighter budget or have a project where traditional methods are preferred, composite felt paper can still be a viable option. It’s been used successfully for years and provides reliable protection when installed correctly.

Conclusion

At Prairie Roofing, we often recommend synthetic felt paper for most roofing applications due to its enhanced durability and performance. However, every roofing project is unique, and the best choice depends on factors such as budget, climate, and the specific needs of your roof. If you’re unsure which underlayment is right for your project, feel free to contact us for a personalized recommendation. We’re here to help ensure your roof stands the test of time.

— Dayne P., Owner of Prairie Roofing