Best Roof Underlayment For Asphalt Shingles In 2024

If you’re getting a new asphalt shingle roof or looking to upgrade your old one, you’ve probably heard about roof underlayment—the layer between your roof deck and shingles that acts as a backup defense against moisture. You already know it’s essential, but now the big question is: What’s the best roof underlayment for asphalt shingles in 2024?

With so many options out there, choosing the right underlayment can be overwhelming, especially if you don't know much about the industry. Each one has pros, cons, and specific features tailored to different needs. 

But don’t worry, our team has been installing roofs in Pittsburgh for years, and with our experience, we can guide you through some of the best roof underlayments for asphalt shingles. 

#1 GAF FeltBuster® Synthetic Roofing Felt

If you're looking for a durable, synthetic underlayment that works well with asphalt shingles, GAF FeltBuster is a solid choice. It’s from one of the most trusted names in roofing, GAF, so you know it’s a product built to last.

Material: Synthetic

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to install. 
• The slip-resistant surface makes it safer for roofers during installation.
• More durable than traditional felt, thanks to its non-asphaltic, polypropylene construction which gives it extra durability. 
• The underlayment resists UV degradation for up to 90 days which is more than the industry standard.  

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than basic felt options.
• Not waterproof but water-resistant, so not ideal for extremely wet climates.

Why it’s great: 

GAF FeltBuster is a synthetic underlayment that outperforms traditional felt in terms of durability and tear resistance. It also stays cool in the sun, meaning less wear and tear during installation. This product is also eligible for a limited lifetime warranty if you install them with GAF Lifetime Shingle roofs.

#2 Owens Corning ProArmor® Synthetic Underlayment

Owens Corning is another big name in roofing. The company, known primarily for its world-class roof shingles, also has some of the best synthetic roof underlayments. Their ProArmor® Synthetic Underlayment offers excellent protection for asphalt shingles. It’s a great option for homeowners who live in areas with harsh weather conditions.

Material: Synthetic

Pros:

• Fusion Back Coating Technology™ ensures slip resistance on both surfaces, making it safer during installation.
• May qualify for a 10-year limited warranty.
• Tear-resistant around fasteners, contributing to long-term durability.
• UV-resistant for up to 90 days, adding protection during extended installations.

Cons:

• Because this option is waterproof, it can be more expensive than other underlayments. 

Why it’s great: 

ProArmor is strong, resistant to weathering, and specifically designed for use with asphalt shingles. The roofing underlayment meets all the ASTM standards and is Class A fire-resistant. It provides excellent coverage and peace of mind, especially if you’re in an area where storms can sneak up on you.

#3 Grace Ice & Water Shield®

If you live in a place that experiences freezing temperatures, snow, or ice, Grace Ice & Water Shield is a popular underlayment for extra weatherproofing. It’s specially designed to protect your roof from ice dams and water infiltration.

Material: Rubberized asphalt

Pros:

• Self-sealing around nails and fasteners, offering superior water-tightness.
• This roofing underlayment is made from an embossed surface for improved slip resistance.
• Extremely durable in harsh conditions like snow, ice, and freezing rain.       
• This underlayment has a built-in ripcord for easier installation. 

Cons:

• More expensive than other options.
• It may be a bit heavier and more difficult to install due to its self-adhesive nature.

Why it’s great: 

For areas that get heavy snow or rain, Grace Ice & Water Shield is one of the best choices. Its self-sealing feature makes it an excellent choice for preventing leaks around nails and other roof penetrations. Also, this underlayment is perfectly suitable for other roofing materials such as metal roofs and even slate shingles. 

#4 Tyvec® Protec™ 120 

Tyvek Protec 120 is a solid synthetic underlayment option, known for its ease of installation and safety features. Manufactured by DuPont, it’s designed for asphalt shingles but can also be used with other roofing materials.

Material: Synthetic

Pros:

• Excellent walkability, with a high-traction surface even in wet conditions. 
• Provides a good balance between durability and breathability.
• This underlayment is one of the lightest around. This makes it easier for contractors to install on different types of roofs. 
• UV-resistant for up to 90 days, allowing for flexibility during installation.
• This underlayment comes with an impressive 30-year warranty.  

Cons:

• Lower tear resistance compared to heavier-duty versions like the Protec 160 or 200.

Why it’s great: 

Tyvek Protec 120 is perfect for homeowners who want a high-performance underlayment that combines affordability with safety. Its slip-resistant surface ensures secure footing for roofers, making it a go-to choice for installations in various weather conditions.

#5 IKO Stormtite® Synthetic Underlayment

For a budget-friendly but reliable option, IKO Stormtite is a solid choice. It offers the durability of synthetic materials without breaking the bank, making it ideal for homeowners looking to get the best value.

Material: Synthetic

Pros:

• Cost-effective compared to many synthetic options.
• This shingle underlayment is lightweight and tear-resistant.  
• UV-stable, allowing for exposure during longer installation times.

Cons:

• May not be as durable as premium products under extreme weather conditions.
• The warranty period is lesser than other options (15-year material warranty). 

Why it’s great: 

If you’re working on a budget but still want a high-quality synthetic underlayment, IKO Stormtite offers great value. It’s not as high-performance as pricier options, but it does the job well in most climates.

Why Underlayment Matters for Asphalt Shingles

Here’s why the right underlayment is crucial, even if you’ve chosen highly-rated shingles:

• Added Layer of Protection: Think of underlayment as your roof's second line of defense. If water gets past your shingles due to heavy rains, wind, or damage, a good underlayment can stop it from soaking into your roof deck and causing long-term structural problems.
• Improved Longevity: Pairing high-quality underlayment with your asphalt shingles can extend the life of your roof, reducing the chances of premature leaks or damage.
• Weather Resistance: The best underlayment products offer added protection against extreme weather conditions, like snow, wind, or heat.

Install New Roofing Underlayment Today! 

As you can see, when it comes to asphalt shingle roofs, synthetic roof underlayments are all the rage. However, to get the maximum benefit from all the best roofing underlayments on our list, it is important to hire a professional roofing company. 

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, we ensure top-notch roof replacement from start to finish. Our process involves using the best shingle underlayments to make sure your roof has that necessary protection. Contact us today at (412) 353-5660. 

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