- HEP Roofing
- Synthetic Underlayment

Synthetic Underlayment
Synthetic Underlayment | Roof Replacement | Roofing | Fayetteville
Fayetteville’s intense sun, surprise hailstorms, and rolling humidity can chew through ordinary felt in no time, which is why HEP installs advanced synthetic underlayment on every roof replacement we perform. Lightweight yet tear-resistant, this woven polymer layer is 25× stronger than traditional paper, creating a watertight shield that won’t wrinkle, buckle, or trap moisture even after days of UV exposure. The result is a quieter, cooler attic and shingles that sit flatter for longer—exactly what you need when North Carolina weather swings from sizzling to sideways rain in a single afternoon.
Homeowners love that our synthetic underlayment grips like a gym mat, giving crews safer footing and shortening project timelines, while its mildew-proof design locks out the leaks that lead to costly plywood rot. Backed by HEP’s local craftsmanship guarantee and manufacturer warranties up to 50 years, your new roof arrives with the strength and staying power your family deserves. Ready to wrap your home in next-generation protection? Schedule a free inspection today and see why so many Fayetteville neighbors trust HEP when it’s time for a roof replacement.
FAQs
What is synthetic roofing underlayment and why should I choose it over traditional felt for my Fayetteville roof replacement?
Synthetic underlayment is a woven or spun-bonded polypropylene or polyester sheet that is installed between your roof deck and the final roofing material. Compared with 15- or 30-lb asphalt-saturated felt, synthetic underlayment is dramatically lighter (about 25 lbs per 10 squares versus 50–60 lbs), stronger against tearing, resists UV and moisture damage longer, and provides a slip-resistant walking surface for installers. In Fayetteville’s humid climate and frequent summer storms, the enhanced water shedding and durability of synthetic underlayment offer better protection for your home during and after installation.
Is synthetic underlayment suitable for Fayetteville’s weather conditions?
Yes. Fayetteville experiences hot summers, occasional ice events, and heavy rain associated with tropical systems. Quality synthetic underlayments remain stable in temperatures ranging from ‑40 °F to 240 °F, so they will not wrinkle or buckle in extreme heat or cold. They are also engineered to repel water rather than simply absorb it like felt, reducing the risk of deck rot or mold growth in our humid environment. Many products can remain exposed to UV for 90 days or more, giving contractors added flexibility if weather delays occur during your roof replacement.
How long will synthetic underlayment last beneath my new roof?
When installed correctly, premium synthetic underlayment can last 25–50 years—essentially the service life of most architectural asphalt shingles and many metal roofing systems. It resists drying, cracking, and degradation far longer than felt, which can become brittle in as little as 5–10 years. Because it retains its integrity, synthetic underlayment continues to provide a secondary water barrier for decades, helping your roof system perform better over the long haul.
Can synthetic underlayment be installed over my existing roof deck during replacement?
Absolutely. During a roof replacement, we first remove your old shingles and inspect the decking for rot, loose nails, or delamination. Once any damaged sheathing is repaired or replaced, we fasten the synthetic underlayment directly to the cleaned deck with cap nails or staples, ensuring manufacturer-specified overlap and fastening patterns. Because synthetic sheets are wider and lighter than felt, installation is faster and produces fewer seams, reducing leak points.
Will using synthetic underlayment affect my roofing warranty or homeowners insurance?
Most major shingle and metal roofing manufacturers now list synthetic underlayment as an approved or preferred substrate. In many cases, using a manufacturer-branded synthetic underlayment is required to obtain an upgraded system warranty of 25 years or more. From an insurance standpoint, synthetic underlayment is viewed favorably because it provides better temporary protection if shingles are ever damaged in a storm. Always keep your purchase receipt and installation photos; some insurers offer small discounts for documented, enhanced roof systems.
How much additional cost should I expect for synthetic underlayment on a Fayetteville roof replacement?
Synthetic underlayment typically adds $0.08–$0.20 per square foot compared with basic felt, or roughly $200–$500 on an average 2,000 sq ft roof. However, the faster installation can offset some labor costs, and the extended lifespan, improved moisture protection, and potential warranty upgrades usually make it a cost-effective investment. We provide free, written estimates that break down material and labor so you can see exactly how synthetic underlayment fits into your overall roofing budget.