We may monetize the products available on this site and participate in affiliate programs.
Photo: homedepot.com
From the ground, aTaglooks like a simple series of inclined planes designed to drain water. But roofs are actually complex systems of shingles, plywood, different types of edges, membranes, vents, etc.Sealant, and more. Below is one of the most important components of the system: the roof underlay.
A roof pad serves many purposes. It protects the plywood deck from the elements, wicks away moisture and prevents leaks while maintaining a barrier between the roofing material and the deck. In this guide, you will learn how to choose the best roof underlay and what you should pay attention to.
- BEST OVERALL:Gave FeltBuster synthetic roofing felt
- The best value for money:Grip-Rite ShingleLayment-15 GRE Dachunterlage
- SELECTION OF UPGRADES:GCP Grace Ice & Water Shield HT
- BEST FEELS:Warrior Roofing 30W Dachpappe
- Best rubberized:GCP Grace ice and water protection
- BEST SYNTHETIC:Owens Corning ProArmor synthetic underlay
- ALSO NOTE:Gave WeatherWatch ice and water leakage barrier
Photo: homedepot.com
Types of roof pads
There are three main types of roof pads: felt, rubber and synthetic. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and there are certain situations where one may be superior to the other.
felt
Felt roof pad, also known as felt paper, is the old-fashioned version of roof pad. These thick, heavy felt rolls are made from a combination of polyester and natural plant fibers saturated with bitumen (commonly known as asphalt). They are generally inexpensive compared to other materials and come in lighter (15 pounds) or heavy (30 pounds) versions.
Although felt is cheaper, it is important to understand its disadvantages. First, it is very heavy and difficult to lift onto a roof, so it comes in much shorter rolls than other materials. Also, felt paper is not very tear-resistant, so shingles must be installed immediately to avoid damage from the elements.
rubberized
A rubberized roof pad is a completely different animal. These products are essentially removable rubber membranes that roofers can attach directly to the roof deck. One side of the membrane is smooth, while the other is coated with a sticky substance called butyl.
A rubberized roof membrane is strongly adhesive and forms a waterproof barrier over the roof terrace. It is the best material to prevent leaks from ice dams and other weather events, and many installers use rubber backing in conjunction with synthetic or felt products.
synthetic
Synthetic surfaces are becoming increasingly popular. These lightweight panels of woven or spun synthetic fibers (polyethylene or polypropylene) provide a durable, weather-resistant barrier that is easy to install and often has a flap or nail pattern printed on the face.
Because synthetic roof pads are so lightweight, manufacturers can offer more square feet per unit. roll. They are more expensive, but the faster coverage that synthetic underlays offer due to their size can significantly increase production. Additionally, because the fibers that make up synthetic underlays are so durable, they don't need to be covered nearly as quickly as felt.
What to consider when choosing the best roof underlay
Before deciding on the materials for a roofing project, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The following sections contain some of the most important points to consider when choosing the best productcanopyDocument.
roof type
Roof type can play a role in choosing the best roof underlay. Certain materials such as asphalt shingles, metal roofing or slate may require one type of backing over another.
While it's always best to read the manufacturer's instructions before choosing a pillow, the following guidelines may be helpful:
- Asphalt shingles: Almost all types of substrates are suitable for asphalt shingles.
- Metal Roofing: The expansion and contraction of metal roofing panels can wear down the plastic or felt backing. Rubberized underlays are best suited for these roofs.
- Slate and Tile Roofs: For these classic or traditional roofing materials, many manufacturers strongly recommend #30 (30 pound) felt paper as the backing material.
Climate
The climate in which a home is built can influence the choice of underlay material. For example, in colder climates where snow and ice are prevalent, a rubberized pad is most effective at preventing leaks. Even at extremely high temperatures, a rubber-coated pad is best. A synthetic backing is better than felt all round as it allows moisture to escape while preventing water from entering. However, both do well in mild climates.
Remember that fire resistance is also important, especially in dry climates where wildfires are common. For the best protection, look for underlayment that is Class A certified and can be combined with fire retardant shingles or other roofing materials.
Installation
The installation process between the three types of roof tiles varies slightly and can be a deciding factor for some do-it-yourselfers.
Felt paper is very heavy, so manufacturers typically sell it in rolls that are 3 feet wide (1 foot less than most synthetic backings). This means less coverage per roll and several trips up a ladder. Once the felt paper is rolled out, users adhere it to the tire surface. You also need to be careful as the felt can tear and pose a trip hazard.
A synthetic underlay is much easier to install than a felt underlay. It is lighter and comes in wider rolls, which means better coverage with less work. However, installation usually requires capped nails, which are more expensive and more difficult to install than staples. And while the original synthetic pads were smooth, today's versions are actually a bit sticky for better grip.
Installing a rubberized roof pad can be difficult. These wheels are heavy and don't provide much coverage. The user must lay out the material on the roof surface, cut it, and then remove the paper backing from the adhesive before sticking it to the surface of the tire. The sticky butyl often sticks to itself and is very difficult to separate. But once cut and attached to the roof, the user simply smooths the surface, no nails or staples required.
Tip: In colder temperatures (around 20 degrees Fahrenheit), apply a rubber backing to make the job as easy as possible.
Our best tips
That's a lot of background on the best roofing underlays, but choosing one product can still be overwhelming. To help you out, check out some of the best products on the market below.
Overall the best
Photo: homedepot.com
Those looking for an all-encompassing roof pad should consider the Gaf FeltBuster Synthetic Roof Pad. Despite the name, this product is fully synthetic, durable enough to withstand the elements and light enough to easily carry up and down a ladder.
This synthetic roofing underlayment comes in rolls that are 250 feet long and 4 feet wide, allowing for coverage of up to 1,000 square feet. There is a practical nail pattern on the front for precise nail placement, and the material provides more traction than asphalt for safer working conditions. The polypropylene material is Class A fire resistant and lays flat on overlapping sections, giving a smoother, more even appearance when the roof is finished. It is a little expensive, but the investment may be worth it.
Product Specifications
- Typ:synthetic
- Size:250 feet long and 4 feet wide
- Fire protection class:class a
Advantage
- Lightweight and durable polypropylene construction
- Provides traction for safety
- Nail pattern on the front
- Class A fire resistance
Disadvantages
- A little pricey compared to some other plastics
Get the GAF FeltBuster Roof Pad onHome Depot.
The best value for money
Photo: homedepot.com
Those looking to protect their investment in their roof without breaking the bank should consider Grip-Rite's ShingleLayment. This inexpensive underlayment comes in rolls that are 250 feet long and 4 feet wide, allowing users to cover their roof decks for less money than most other synthetic products.
ShingleLayment is made from polypropylene, which gives this synthetic underlay plenty of strength and durability against the elements. It has a nail pattern for the covered nails and the overlap, which allows for a cleaner installation and better water resistance. In addition, the shingle pattern on the front makes it easier to adjust shingle runs and allows for more accurate alignment. This roller is not only affordable but also non-slip. Unfortunately, the fire resistance is not rated.
Product Specifications
- Typ:synthetic
- Size:250 feet long and 4 feet wide
- Fire protection class:no
Advantage
- Affordable price compared to other synthetic materials
- Nail, lap and flap guides for easier installation
- Non-slip surface for more safety
Disadvantages
- Not rated for fire resistance
Get the Grip-Rite roof pad onHome Depot.
Upgrade option
Photo: homedepot.com
Do-it-yourselfers looking for the ultimate in roof protection should consider the GCP Grace Ice & Water Shield HT Roof Pad. This rubberized backing features a peel and stick application process that requires no fasteners and creates a durable, waterproof seal. It comes in rolls that are 75 feet long and 3 feet wide and has an A fire rating.
HT in the product name stands for High Temperature and indicates that this rubberized membrane is suitable for use on the hottest roofs. It is also good for roofing materials of all kinds. It's quite expensive, especially considering the rollers don't offer much protection, but the level of protection makes it good value for money.
Product Specifications
- Typ:rubberized
- Size:75 feet long and 3 feet wide
- Fire protection class:class a
Advantage
- Peel and stick application
- Creates a watertight seal
- The HT formula is suitable for the hottest roofs
- Class A rated
Disadvantages
- That's expensive
Get the GCP HT roof underlayHome Depotor longerAmazonas.
Best felt
Photo: homedepot.com
If roofing felt is on the table, Warrior Roofing's 30W roofing material is worth considering. This 30-pound felt pad is made of thick, durable felt that is heavily impregnated with asphalt. This combination creates a base that lies flat and is water resistant.
This Warrior roofing underlayment comes in rolls that are 72 feet long and 3 feet wide, providing up to 216 square feet of coverage. It is suitable for shingle, slate and tile roofs. It has a fire protection class A and ensures traction and safety. Although the price per reel isn't high, note that the coverage is low, which makes most synthetic reels a bit more affordable in the long run.
Product Specifications
- Typ:felt
- Size:72 feet long and 3 feet wide
- Fire protection class:class a
Advantage
- High performance felt, heavily impregnated with asphalt
- Suitable for use under slate and tile shingles
- Fire protection class A
- Promotes traction
Disadvantages
- Expensive from a square foot perspective
Get Warrior Roofings cover at 10:00 AMHome Depot.
Best rubberized
Photo: homedepot.com
If someone is looking for safety for their next roofing project, GCP's Grace Ice & Water Shield may be the best product for the job. This rubberized roof pad adheres directly to the deck and creates a waterproof seal that plastic and felt products cannot match.
Grace Ice & Water Shield comes in rolls that are 75 feet long and 3 feet wide for 225 square feet of coverage. It has a fire class A and is suitable for any roofing material, especially metal roofs that expand and contract. The split release paper on the back also helps with some of the challenges encountered with rubberized roof pads. This product is expensive, but the insurance that Grace Ice & Water Shield can offer may be worth it.
Product Specifications
- Typ:rubberized
- Size:75 feet long and 3 feet wide
- Fire protection class:class a
Advantage
- Waterproof seal unmatched by felt or synthetic pads
- Split-release paper solves some application challenges
- Moves with the expansion and contraction of a metal roof
Disadvantages
- Possibility of expensive pillow
Get Grace Underlay onHome DepotorLowes.
Best synthetic material
Photo: homedepot.com
If plastic is their underlay material of choice, buyers should consider Owens Corning's ProArmor roofing underlay. This product's durable polypropylene material resists stretching or tearing at the fasteners, yet weighs only 25 pounds, making it easy to carry. It also features the brand's Fusion backing, which allows for a more secure installation by providing traction to those walking on it.
Owens Corning states that the ProArmor underlayment is suitable for both asphalt and metal roofs. It comes in rolls that are 286 feet long and 42 inches wide, providing coverage up to 1,000 square feet. However, more rolls may be needed to cover as much roof deck as a 4 foot roll. However, it has a fire resistance class A.
Product Specifications
- Typ:synthetic
- Size:286 feet long and 42 inches wide
- Fire protection class:class a
Advantage
- Fusion rear coating to promote traction
- Suitable for asphalt and metal roofs
- Fire protection class A
- Resistant to stretching and tearing
Disadvantages
- Requires more gears than a 4 foot wheel
Also consider
Photo: homedepot.com
The Gaf WeatherWatch roof pad can be a wise choice for problem areas. It provides protection around areas such as valleys, dormer windows, skylights and other leak-prone areas as well as roof edges. Users can apply it to the entire roof, but it is also only suitable for use in those areas before a synthetic underlayment is applied over it.
These rolls are available in 50 foot lengths and 3 foot widths. The rubberized back has a removable split release liner, while the front sheet contains minerals and fiberglass to improve durability and traction during use. WeatherWatch's Ice and Water Leakage Barrier has an A fire rating, but can be slightly less flexible than other rubberized backings due to the minerals, meaning warm weather is typically best for installation.
Product Specifications
- Typ:rubberized
- Size:50 feet long and 3 feet wide
- Fire protection class:class a
Advantage
- Minerals and fiberglass on the surface provide durability and traction
- Peel and stick application with split release liner
- Works on the entire roof or just along edges and problem areas
Disadvantages
- May be less flexible than typical rubberized pads
Get the Gaf WeatherWatch Roof Pad onHome Depot.
Our verdict
Anyone looking for a premium synthetic underlayment should consider thisGave FeltBuster tag underlagfor its practical pattern and durable construction. But if you want to save some money while protecting your investment, you should consider itGrip-Rite-Dachunterlage.
How we chose the best roof underlay
Choosing a list of the best roofing underlays was a lot of work. We had to draw on all our experience with roofs and the materials we use to identify the key qualities we felt the average DIYer would need. We then conducted extensive product research to find options that met our criteria.
However, that was not the end. We had to review all these products and compare them based on our experience, materials, price and other important factors. Products that didn't meet our standards were tossed aside, while those that passed received awards based on their strengths.
Frequently asked questions
That's a lot of underlayment information, but there may still be some unanswered questions beneath the surface. The following section aims to answer these questions as it is a compilation of some of the most frequently asked questions about roof underlayment. Be sure to check below to get your question answered. But if we missed them, be sure to call the pad manufacturer.
Q.Do roof shingles need a base?
Yes. Although shingles are durable, they are only one part of a system. The rest of this system includes underlayment, edging, drip edges and other components designed to work together to protect the patio.
Q.How is the roof underlay laid?
It depends on the product, but the roof underlay should be rolled parallel to the roof top, starting at the lowest point first. Subsequent routes should overlap on the way to the top. Staple felt paper in place or use cover nails for the synthetic backing. The rubberized backing sticks to itself when the backing is removed.
Q.How long does a roof underlay last?
A roof underlay lasts between 12 and 20 years before it starts to deteriorate. Some rubberized cushions can last up to 35 years.
Q.How long can a roof underlay be exposed?
The substrate of the cardboard roof should be covered as soon as possible. A few days of calm weather is usually fine though. A synthetic and rubberized pad is usually fine for 90 days, but the sooner it's covered, the better.
FAQs
The best roof underlays in 2023? ›
Synthetic Underlayment
This is currently the most popular choice for roof underlayment, and with good reason. Made with an asphalt-saturated basemat and fortified with a mix of fiberglass, this product is not only extremely water-resistant, much stronger and more resistant to tears than other types of underlayment.
Synthetic Underlayment
This is currently the most popular choice for roof underlayment, and with good reason. Made with an asphalt-saturated basemat and fortified with a mix of fiberglass, this product is not only extremely water-resistant, much stronger and more resistant to tears than other types of underlayment.
Traditional asphalt felt underlayment has a lifespan of 15–25 years. While asphalt-saturated felt, modern synthetic and rubberized underlayments are far more long-lasting and waterproof. These second “type” of underlayments will usually last 25 to 35 years.
What is the longest lasting roof membrane? ›EPDM, or Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, is known as the longest-lasting flat roof material. It's designed to withstand the most extreme weather conditions that a flat roof can face, and this durability can help it last at least 30 to 50 years.
What is the best roof underlayment for solar panels? ›Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt is the most common type of shingle used on housing and is also the best roof for solar panels. These shingles are made from a fiberglass or cellulose type of mat that is very flexible and durable, making it the perfect material for solar panels.
In general, there are three types of roofing underlayment: felt, self-adhered, and synthetic.
What is the best thickness for underlayment? ›Underlayment. Underneath the top flooring layer is often (though not always) an underlayment. It comprises padding materials and is typically about 1/4 to 1/2 inch in thickness. The purpose of the underlayment is to provide a sturdy yet comfortable layer for your outer flooring to sit on.
What is the most durable roof waterproofing? ›PVC membrane is one of the most frequently used waterproofing products for roofs. It is both water and vapor permeable and can be reinforced to offer extra durability. It is also very easy to install and has a long lifespan.
What is the most durable roof covering? ›The most durable types of roofing are slate and clay tiles but they're more expensive than materials like metal or wood. Functional roofing alternatives like green roofs and solar shingles are among the most expensive types. Replacing an old roof is one of the best and most profitable ways to invest in a home.
What is the most durable roofing sheet? ›Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one of the most popular types of plastic used in construction and is commonly used for roofing sheets. PVC is known for its durability, resistance to weather and chemicals, and low maintenance costs.
What is the longest lasting roof material? ›
Concrete, clay, and slate tiles have an average lifespan of 100 or more years. They are without a doubt the materials that last the longest but are also, bar none, some of the most expensive. Slate roofs are often called the “forever roof” because they can last seemingly forever.
Which underlayment would be the best choice directly beneath a metal roof? ›30# felt underlayment (or two layers of 15# felt) are recommended for metal roof panels. Felt is an all-over roofing accessory made of a natural (wood cellulose, natural fibers, etc.) or synthetic (polyester or fiberglass) base that is then saturated in asphalt to make it water-resistant.
Which is better felt or synthetic underlayment? ›With that in mind, synthetic underlayment is more durable than felt underlayment. Felt underlayment is much more prone to rip from high winds and during the installation process. Synthetic underlayment also holds nails better and repels water instead of absorbing it.
How often should roof underlayment be replaced? ›In most cases, traditional felt underlayment is rated to last between 12 and 20 years. In other words, in a little over a decade, the underlayment beneath your roof's surface may start to deteriorate. The roof will become more prone to leaks as this added layer of protection breaks down.
Which is better peel and stick or synthetic underlayment? ›Peel and stick is significantly more efficient in minimizing the risk of water infiltration and damage. Depending on where you live, the building code might require you to install peel and stick underlayment specifically.
How many layers of roof underlayment do I need? ›Overlapping 19 inches will ensure that the underlayment is at least two layers thick all over the roof. So, underlayment on low-slope roofs should overlap 19 inches. Remember that underlayment on steep-slope roofs should overlap 2 inches.
How many rolls of underlayment do I need for a roof? ›Underlayment usually comes in rolls of 4 squares each. So, covering 240 squares would require 60 rolls of underlayment. No underlayment is needed if you are applying shingles directly over an existing asphalt roof.
What is a better underlayment? ›The best materials for floor underlayments include foam, cork, and polyethylene (thermoplastic). If you're looking to add softness while absorbing sound and preventing mold and mildew, cork might be your best bet. 4 If your main goal is to add a moisture barrier, polyethylene might be a better choice.
What is the highest R value underlayment? ›With an R-value of 4.1, DRICORE Insul-Armor provides one of the highest R-values in the market, meaning maximum warmth and comfort for your family.
What is the new technology for roof waterproofing? ›Nanotechnology in Waterproofing
One of the most well-known applications of nanotechnology in modern life is the use of ceramic coating for waterproofing. Water, oil, dirt, and other dry particles are repelled by nanocoating, which are surface layers that are hydrophobic (water repellent) and oleophobic (oil repellent).
What is the best roof material for heavy rain? ›
- Asphalt. Asphalt shingles, better known as 3-tab or architectural, are popular in many parts of the country. ...
- Metal. ...
- Wood. ...
- Concrete/Clay. ...
- Slate. ...
- Best: Composite Roofing Tiles. ...
- Brava Is the Leader in Synthetic Composite Roof Tiles.
Silicone. Silicone is considered the best waterproofing material, so it's ideal for use on EPDM or flat roofs. It also protects well against UV rays and fading from sun exposure. However, it's among the most expensive roof sealaer options, so it's generally not suitable for sealing large leaks or treating entire roofs.
What is the cheapest longest lasting roof? ›Asphalt shingles! These are some of the lowest-cost materials on the market for roofing. Asphalt shingles are very common and great for budget-conscious homeowners. Their lifespan is shorter than other roofing materials with warranties of 15-30 years (about half as long as metal roofs).
What color roof lasts the longest? ›Lighter colored shingles might be better for longevity than dark colored shingles because of the way they react to light and heat.
What is the average life of a roof? ›The average lifespan of a roof usually ranges between 25 to 50 years. However, a roof's life expectancy ultimately depends on the quality, durability and type of material chosen.
What type of roofing is best? ›Slate is the most durable and longest-lasting roofing material, with a life expectancy of more than 150 years. The next most durable material is clay, which has a lifespan of about 100 years.
What is the most expensive roofing material? ›The most expensive type of roofing material is slate.
For comparison, you can actually expect to pay at least 4 times more for a slate roof than you would for the most commonly used asphalt roof. Be aware, if your home can't handle the weight of a slate roof the way it is, you'll have to retrofit it.
What Type of Roof Is the Strongest? A metal hip roof offers the most durability of any common roofing design. Because hip roofs have an inward slope, they're ideal for regions that are prone to strong wind and frequent snow.
What is the sturdiest roof? ›If you're looking for the strongest type of roof, you're looking for a DECRA metal roof. Since 1957, DECRA Metal Roofing has set the industry standard for durability and longevity.
Which type of roof has a longer life? ›Roofing material that lasts the longest are concrete, clay or slate tiles. These materials significantly outperform other natural products like wood shakes or any manufactured roofing materials including asphalt shingles and metal roofing. Although these materials have a good lifespan, they are not as durable.
What is the best material for a new roof? ›
Asphalt Roofing Shingles
Relatively lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install, asphalt shingles are the best choice for most houses. They come in sheets that are layered on a roof to give the illusion of more expensive single shingles, such as cedar and slate, that are installed one shingle at a time.
Underlayment is installed much like the shingles themselves. We overlap the edges to make sure every inch of the roof is covered. But it's not enough to stand up for a whole winter. So, yes – roofing underlayment can get wet.
What is the traditional underlayment for a roof? ›The classic type of roof underlayment is known as asphalt-saturated felt. It's similar to tar paper, except that instead of tar, the waterproofing ingredient is asphalt.
What is the most commonly used underlayment for asphalt shingles? ›In an asphalt shingle roof, either valley underlayment or valley flashing is used.
Can you put underlayment over old roof underlayment? ›So long as it's the only layer of underlayment present on the roof, it's safe to peel off as much as you can without doing damage—then place new underlayment over top of what remains.
Is Tiger Paw underlayment better than felt? ›GAF TigerPaw Underlayment
TigerPaw is up to 600% stronger than #30 asphalt felt, and while it isn't completely waterproof, it is highly water-resistant. TigerPaw's main disadvantage lies in its water resistance—other products can be made completely waterproof if need be—and in its weight.
Proper selection and installation of underlayment are important because they can affect how your laminate flooring feels and how it wears over time. The type of underlayment chosen should be based on the environment, the type of floor chosen, and your own personal needs for space.
What type of underlayment should I use? ›While there are a number of good options in the market, cork and foam are the usual favorites for a laminate floor underlay. Depending on your lifestyle, you may appreciate cork for its thickness and sound absorption; foam, on the other hand, is an excellent, cost-efficient material that works as a moisture barrier.
What do roofers use instead of felt? ›Tar paper and roofing felt are somewhat similar in that they both shed water. It's a generic term and sometimes used synonymously with roofing felt because they are used the same way. Tar paper is less wind and sun resistant than other underlayment systems.
Is 15 or 30 underlayment better for roofing? ›If your roof does not have a steep pitch, you can use #15. This weight of felt is a good economic choice if you have a standard roof. But if your roof has a steep pitch, #30 is a better option because it is thicker and tears less during installation. With #30 you get a thicker layer of underlayment and protection.
Can synthetic underlayment get rained on? ›
Underlayment is installed much like the shingles themselves. We overlap the edges to make sure every inch of the roof is covered. But it's not enough to stand up for a whole winter. So, yes – roofing underlayment can get wet.
What underlayment has the highest R value? ›With an R-value of 4.1, DRICORE Insul-Armor provides one of the highest R-values in the market, meaning maximum warmth and comfort for your family.
What is a good sound rating for underlayment? ›The higher the number, the higher the resistance – the better. To meet International Building Code – both IIC and STC need to meet the minimum of 50 to pass. Many larger luxury condo associations and municipalities are now looking at the higher 50's and lower 60's range.
Is thicker underlayment better? ›Many DIYers may believe that a thick underlayment will create a more cushioned feel. While this may be the case with carpeting, using a too-thick underlayment material is a mistake with laminate floors. A thick underlayment allows the flooring to flex too much, causing the seams between the boards to separate.
Should I use thin or thick underlay? ›10mm will provide comfort underfoot and stop noises, whereas 11mm and 12mm will provide a much more luxurious feel underfoot, offer warmth and reduce sounds from underneath more than the 10mm options. It is always best to go for thicker if you live in a cold home or are intended on investing in a premium carpet.
What is the easiest underlayment? ›Foam: This material is one of the easiest and most affordable types of underlayment to install. Foam underlayment provides a high level of sound insulation, making it a great option for limiting hollow noises.
How long does peel and stick last on a roof? ›Roofing systems made with SA membranes are extremely durable and can stand up to a variety of weather conditions. Even with basic maintenance, SA membranes can last at least 20 to 30 years, and they are easy to repair should any problems occur.
How long does synthetic roof underlayment last? ›Newer synthetic or rubberized asphalt underlayments are much more durable than asphalt felt and offer better protection against water. These underlayments can last 25 years or more with inspections.
Is synthetic underlayment good for roofing? ›Synthetic roof underlayment is extremely durable.
It typically doesn't tear and is suitable for extended UV and moisture exposure in some cases, which is especially helpful if there's a bit of lead time before your roof covering is installed.