A home could not be considered as completely protected without a properly incorporated roofing system. A complete roofing system entails an effective roof underlayment. It is a critical part of a home that some people might not know much about. Most people only know about the roof being the protective covering of the house from different weather conditions but many are unaware of the importance of the roof underlayment. It serves as the barrier to keep the home free from water and moisture damage.
When it comes to brands of roof underlayment, one of the most popular ones is the GAF roof underlayment. It has been widely revered for its effective results and proven protection. However, homeowners who seek alternatives to this brand should not worry because there are 5 excellent products to choose from. With performance and efficiency, these alternatives to GAF roof underlayment are worth considering.
GAF Roof Underlayment Alternatives
Tyvek Protec 160 Roof Underlayment
DuPont has created the Tyvek Protec brand as one of the most widely used roof underlayments. The Tyvek Protec 160 roof underlayment is one of the best alternatives because it has UV protection that could last for six months. That is equal to 180 days of an exposed roof. It weighs 31 pounds per roll and has a thickness of 14.9 mils. The Tyvek Protec 160 is 4 feet wide and 250 feet long. This product is guaranteed durable.
For homeowners who live in areas that are prone to hurricanes, this is one roof underlayment worth considering. It works well when it comes to hurricane roof patching. Its installation is easy and will not require a lot of people to get the job done.
The Tyvek Protec 160 is almost the same as the Tyvek Protec 120 when it comes to features though it offers some performance upgrades. It also offers similar industry-leading walkability. This can be installed under different roofing materials like asphalt shingles, cedar, and metal roof cladding. The Tyvek Protec 160 has great traction and that makes it ideal for roofs with steep slopes.
In terms of performance, it is impressive because it has a four-layer construction. The slip-resistant coating from this product is one of its most desirable qualities. It works as an effective moisture barrier, especially during roof installation.
Owens Corning ProArmor
The Owens Corning brand has been a well-known company in terms of building products. Homeowners who expect GAF roof underlayment quality won’t be disappointed with Owens Corning ProArmor roof underlayment. It is a great brand that offers durable and reliable underlayment. ProArmor is a proven synthetic felt underlayment that provides great water resistance despite being a thin and light product.
The surface of the Owens Corning ProArmor is slip-resistant and comes with button caps. Roofers will have an easier time upon installation because it would be safer to operate while walking across. Owens Corning ProArmor is one of the most recommended options in terms of synthetic roof underlayment. Homeowners should carefully consider this product when choosing among alternatives to GAF roof underlayment.
Epilay Underlayments
Another excellent alternative to GAF roof underlayment is the Epilay brand. It offers a line of synthetic underlayment products perfect to serve a variety of needs. There is a Protectite line with four grades that range from Plasfelt to Protectite Platinum. All of these underlayments were designed to provide effective water resistance. They are highly tear-resistant as well.
Roof installers will also appreciate these products because they are easy to handle and install. Another impressive feature of the Epilay brand is that they feature up to 12 months of UV resistance. This means that this product can withstand exposure for a long time.
Tyvek Protec 120 Roof Underlayment
Another product that could serve as an excellent alternative to GAF roof underlayment is the Tyvek Protec 120. Yes, another Tyvek on this list. Well, that is how good the brand is. This product offers a fully weatherproof underlayment. It serves as an effective advantage especially in places that experience severe weather conditions. Roof installers love using this roof underlayment because it has a textured surface that makes walking across easier for them.
The Tyvek Protec 120 roof underlayment is also a light product and that helps roofers in terms of hauling. Going up ladders won’t be as difficult with heavier underlayment options.
Firestone RubberGard FSRG10X15-60 Roof Underlayment
Homeowners who aim to acquire an excellent alternative to GAF roof underlayment should highly consider the Firestone brand. The Firestone RubberGard roof underlayment is one of the most popular underlayments in the market today. The brand has been known to be reliable and highly durable even in locations with severe weather conditions. It is manufactured using a synthetic rubber compound and offers superior UV resistance. This product can also withstand low temperatures. Roof installers recommend this product because of its safety and ease of installation.
This Firestone RubberGard Roof underlayment is one of the toughest underlayment options in the market today. This product comes with a 60mm thick layer. The advantage of having that thickness is that it would be more silent when heavy rains start to pour down the home’s roof. Another benefit is that it can assist the roof to cool even during summer and hot days. In addition, the Firestone RubberGard roof underlayment also offers an incredibly tough underlayment. With its tough features, this product cannot be easily torn apart. It also provides top-notch waterproof protection.
Premier Roof Underlayment Options
Without question, GAF roof underlayment is one of the best options in the market today. However, homeowners who tend to look for alternative roof underlayment products can refer to the mentioned brands above. These 5 excellent alternatives to GAF roof underlayment have been proven and tested by homeowners and roof installers. The smart homeowners won’t just choose any roof underlayment product without analyzing the features, warranty, and effectiveness of other options. It would be intelligent to take the time before deciding because roof underlayment is one of the most essential parts of a home.
