Roof underlayment offers a very important role to protect a home. It serves a crucial part to help prolong the life of a roofing system. Homeowners must realize that this should not be underestimated. When it comes to roof underlayments, one of the top brands is Titanium but there are other alternatives that homeowners can also look into for roof protection.
Best Alternatives to Titanium Roof Underlayment
The following are the best options for roof underlayment needs.
Tyvek Protec 120 Roof Underlayment
DuPont offers the Tyvek Protec 120 Roof Underlayment. It has been engineered specifically as a synthetic roof underlayment that has superior walkability features. The majority of roofing contractors approve and even recommend this brand. It is an ideal underlayment for slopes 2:12 or higher. It also works compatible with a wide array of roofing materials.
This roof underlayment is lightweight but can handle 65mph wind gusts. That’s just straight facts on how durable this brand is. Due to its four-layer construction, the Tyvek Protec 120 roof underlayment can keep the wind out. The material composition of this brand can outlast strong winds. Its tear resistance is impressive as well.
The walkability feature of this brand is incredible as roof installers or anyone walking on top of the house can get sound footing even during damp instances. Installation of the whole roofing system is no easy task but this brand helps the entire process faster and more favorable to everyone. Its slip-resistant coating offers a good grip on the roof itself.
The strength of the Tyvec Protec 120 is due to its woven polypropylene. It also comes with a water barrier layer. Grooves are placed on top and protect the actual work environment from water and dirt so that a safe roofing surface is created.
Pros of Tyvec Protec 120 Roof Underlayment
Better walkability
Enhanced wind resistance
Solid grip
Compatibility with lots of roofing materials
ArmorLay 25 Synthetic Roof Underlayment
The ArmorLay 25 synthetic roof underlayment is light and weighs less than 25 pounds for each roll that can cover 1,000 square feet. It can offer better protection compared to traditional felt. In terms of installation, the ArmorLay 25 product can be installed much easier when compared to rubber felt. It also showcases a stronger and durable quality compared to normal felt.
One roll of the ArmorLay 25 synthetic roof underlayment can provide five times the coverage of typical felt underlayment. It can be utilized on steep slope roofs, composite roof shingles, and metal roofs.
The performance of this roof underlayment brand meets ASTM D4869 and ASTM D226 standards. That just means that homeowners would not have to worry in terms of this brand’s quality.
For walkability reasons, this product has textured fabric applied on top of its surface. This allows for improved walkability, especially on steep slopes. It can assist roof installers to work on a home’s roofing system with an easier and safer process of installation. The ArmorLay 25 synthetic roof underlayment works as a building wrap. It will cover the rooftop from water and prevent moisture damage as well.
Pros of ArmorLay 25 Synthetic Roof Underlayment
Lighter and Stronger Compared to Felt
Bigger coverage
Improved walkability
Firestone RubberGard 60-Mil EPDM Roofing
The Firestone RubberGard is made out of high-performing synthetic rubber compound. It is one of the premier roofing underlayment options in the market and also offers the EPD membrane incredible durability and great resistance against UV radiation and other elemental damage.
This product is one of the toughest roof underlayment options in the market today. It comes with a 60mm thick layer. The benefit of having that thick feature is that it would be quieter when heavy rains pour down. Another advantage is that it can help the roof to cool even during hot and sunny days. In addition to the mentioned benefits, it also provides an incredibly tough underlayment. Due to its tough features, it cannot be easily torn apart. This product also offers premier waterproof protection.
ProsFirestone RubberGard 60-Mil EPDM Roofing
Incredible durability
Impressive waterproofing characteristics
Excellent value
MFM Wind & Water Seal Underlayment
The MFM Wind & Water Seal underlayment is one of the most popular products when it comes to roofing system protection. It’s a rubberized asphalt that could be utilized under different roofing materials. This underlayment is self-adhering with very high adhesion. Due to its high adhesion, the installation of this underlayment is easy. It also helps eliminate any space that water might move around. Homeowners can even install it over other roof protectors to serve as secondary waterproofing underlayment.
One roll of MFM Wind & Water Seal underlayment weighs 52 pounds. It is 40 mils thick as well. It comes with a non-slip polymer film that helps with walkability. This underlayment has good thermal qualities. Its adhesive has rubberized asphalt and that helps withstand high temperatures.
If a surface is properly cleaned, the MFM Wind & Water Seal can be used on plywood, masonry, OSB, rigid vinyl, foam installation, house-wrap, among others. Since it is typically utilized as a vapor barrier, homeowners must take the time to have proper ventilation first before applying this.
Pros of MFM Wind & Water Seal Underlayment
Impressive protection against wind and rain
Self-sealing
Easy application
Grace Ice & Water Shield Roofing Underlayment
Another excellent alternative to Titatinum roof underlayment is the Grace Ice & Water Shield roofing underlayment. It is one of the premier options if homeowners aim to get protected more against wind, rain, and snow then this is the perfect roof underlayment. This is a self-adhered membrane that comes with high durability and high quality. Each roll is sized 225 sq. ft. For roofs with leaking problems, this is a great permanent solution.
Due to its composition, the membrane can form a watertight seal even around nails, caps, and fasteners. It can also be used on eaves to prevent leaks that might be from ice dams.
Pros of Grace Ice & Water Shield Roofing Underlayment
Best for preventing leaks
Versatility of materials
Bonds tightly to the roof deck
Effective Options for Roof Underlayment
Titanium roof underlayment is one of the premier products in the market today but for homeowners who seek alternatives, the five mentioned above are the most recommended ones. They have been proven and tested over time and homeowners have attested to their effectiveness against extreme weather conditions. The important matter is that a home should be protected with utmost importance against heat, moisture, and water leakages. Smart homeowners choose these 5 excellent alternatives to Titanium roof underlayment because of their proven results. Whether for new roof construction or a re-roofing project, it is essential to consider the long-term effect of any roof underlayment product. Never forget the warranty that comes with it as well.
