Choosing between synthetic underlayment or ice and water shield underlayment isn’t an easy decision as both can do a good job of protecting your roof from leaks and water damage. However, which one is better for your roofing needs? This article takes a look at both types, so you can make an educated decision that’s best for your budget and your needs.
What Is a Synthetic Underlayment?
Synthetic underlayment is a type of roofing material that roofers place beneath your roofing layer. The underlayment provides insulation for your home as well as protection. While some underlayment is made from paper or wood pulp, synthetic underlayment is from polypropylene or polyethylene.
There are some benefits of using synthetic underlayment. For one, they are durable and more resistant to rotting or tearing compared to organic underlayment. They can also withstand exposure to extreme weather conditions without deteriorating.
Because synthetic underlayment is made out of synthetic material, they are typically water resistant, too. Using synthetic underlayment will help protect your home against leaks and water damage.
Moreover, synthetic underlayment is easy to install. It’s also more flexible when it comes to cutting around different features on your roof. Because of its polyethylene or polypropylene makeup, it’s lightweight as well. This can make it easier to handle during the installation process.
What Is an Ice and Water Shield Underlayment?
An ice and water shield underlayment is a specially designed underlayment to provide additional protection against water. This underlayment is helpful in areas that get heavy rains. Like with synthetic underlayment, there are quite a few advantages to using ice and water shield underlayment.
Ice and water shield underlayment is designed with a self-adhesive backing. This allows you to create a watertight seal when you install it on your roof. The watertight seal prevents water from seeping under.
To create a waterproof structure, the underlayment is made from rubberized asphalt or waterproof materials. Some underlayment companies combine two materials: rubberized asphalt and polyethylene. This helps provide a waterproof barrier during heavy rains or floods.
Ice and water shield underlayment is extremely beneficial if your roof tends to collect ice dams. As the ice melts, the water can seep into your home. With an ice and water shield underlayment, though, you’ll get an effective barrier that prevents water damage and leaks.
Some areas that suffer from heavy rains require ice and water shield underlayment. By installing this kind of underlayment, you’ll be complying with your city or county codes.
Which One Is Better for You?
Choosing a synthetic underlayment or an ice and water shield underlayment will depend on the climate in your area, the type of roof you have, and your budget.
If you live in an area with lots of snow, heavy rains, and regular storms, you may want to consider installing an ice and water shield underlayment. While a synthetic underlayment is water resistant, an ice and water shield underlayment is waterproof.
An ice and water shield underlayment is more expensive than a synthetic underlayment. So, if budget is a major concern for you, then choose a synthetic underlayment.
Check the building codes in your area. Some counties may require that you install an ice and water shield underlayment. If there are no requirements, pick an underlayment that meets your roof’s needs.
When Should You Replace or Upgrade Your Roof Underlayment?
If you’re thinking about upgrading your roof underlayment to a synthetic or ice and water shield one, it’s important to first recognize if it’s time.
Age is the first factor that determines if your underlayment should be replaced. Underlayment typically has a lifespan of roughly 15-20 years. If yours is around that age, it may be a good idea to talk to a roofing company about replacing your underlayment.
Check if there is any visible damage to your underlayment. If you see cracks, tears, or holes, it’s a sign that you should replace it. Underlayment with tears won’t be able to effectively do its job of keeping water out of your home.
If you have some water damage on your ceilings or walls, then your roof underlayment has failed to do its job. In this case, call a roofing company immediately to install new underlayment.
Another time you may want to consider installing new underlayment is if you’re repairing or replacing your roof. It may be a good idea to replace your roof shingles as well as your underlayment.
If your older home doesn’t comply with the local building codes, you may have to replace your underlayment. Your building codes may have changed to take into consideration the severe storms in your area.
About Our Services
When you need to install synthetic or ice and water shield underlayment, Sowell Roofing, Inc. is the company to call. We can reroof your residential or commercial property. We can also provide storm tarping services. When you need roof repair, installation, or maintenance services in Milford, Florida, contact us at Sowell Roofing, Inc. We’re a family-owned business that has been serving the Milford area for years.