When it comes to roofing in Florida, the right underlayment isn’t just an accessory—it’s a critical component that determines how well a roof stands up to the state’s unique weather challenges. With frequent storms, intense humidity, and relentless sunshine, roofing materials in Florida face some of the harshest conditions in the country. As one industry source puts it, “Roof underlayment is the last line of defense that protects a home from serious damage if a roof covering is blown off or damaged in a storm” (atlasroofing.com).
Florida’s UV Index often ranges between 6 and 10, especially in cities like Miami and Tampa, accelerating the breakdown of roofing materials exposed to the sun (southwestorlandobulletin.com).
For contractors, builders, and homeowners alike, understanding the differences between synthetic, felt, and peel-and-stick underlayments is essential to making the right choice for both protection and compliance. Explore our roofing materials directory to view options designed specifically for Florida’s climate.
What Underlayment Does and Why Florida Crews Care
Beneath every finished roof in Florida lies an underlayment system designed to block water, protect against wind-driven rain, and act as a moisture barrier when the outer roofing material is compromised. In a state where hurricanes and heavy rains are frequent, underlayment is not just a formality—it’s a vital safeguard.
The right underlayment can mean the difference between a minor fix and major water damage after a storm.
Florida roofs must also withstand extreme UV exposure; with average UV Index levels commonly between 6 and 10, underlayment materials are constantly at risk of accelerated wear (southwestorlandobulletin.com). Florida codes are designed for conditions where roofs may need to withstand wind speeds that exceed 150 mph.
That’s why choosing a compliant, high-quality product is so important. For more on contractor-focused support and options, see our roofing supply in Florida page.
Synthetic Underlayment: Where It Fits and What Sets It Apart
Synthetic underlayment has rapidly become the preferred choice for many Florida roofing professionals, offering a combination of durability, light weight, and superior moisture resistance. Unlike traditional felt, synthetic products are made from advanced polymers such as polypropylene or polyethylene, which are engineered to withstand the state’s unique climate.
Here’s how synthetic underlayment Florida stands out:
- Durability and Longevity: Synthetics resist heat, humidity, and UV exposure far better than felt, with many rated for 25 to 50 years of service (pitchroofing.com).
- Mold and Water Resistance: These materials repel water, resist mold growth, and maintain their integrity in humid conditions. Synthetic underlayments are also naturally mold-resistant and often exceed the moisture protection criteria set by the Florida Building Code.
- Ease of Installation: Synthetic rolls are lighter and wider, making installation quicker and reducing labor costs.
- Cost Effective Over Time: While the upfront cost may be higher (typically $0.30–$1.15 per square foot in Florida), the longer lifespan and reduced maintenance can lead to significant savings (pitchroofing.com).
“A synthetic roof underlayment has unbeatable weather resistance. This is important, because when hurricane-force winds tear off your shingles, your underlayment is the last line of defense,” notes Heather Ware, a Florida roofing specialist (pitchroofing.com).
If you’re looking for the best in class, browse our roofing materials for synthetic options built for Florida’s demands.
Felt Underlayment: Where It Still Fits
Is felt underlayment outdated? It’s a question many Florida contractors and homeowners ask as modern alternatives become more popular.
While felt has been a roofing staple for decades, it’s increasingly being replaced by synthetic underlayments in Florida due to performance limitations. Felt is more prone to absorbing moisture, wrinkling, and deteriorating quickly under the state’s high UV and humidity. Florida Building Code updates now recommend or require synthetic materials for many applications, recognizing their superior performance (triangleroofingusa.com).
Still, felt underlayment may have a place in certain budget-sensitive projects or where local codes allow. However, for most new roofs in Florida, the trend is clear: synthetic underlayments are now the standard. Choosing felt may limit eligibility for some insurance discounts and can risk failing inspections if not used according to updated code.
To explore both traditional and modern underlayment options, visit our roofing materials directory.
Peel-and-Stick Underlayment: The Gold Standard for Florida Storms?
For ultimate protection against Florida’s toughest weather, peel-and-stick underlayment is fast becoming the gold standard. This self-adhering material bonds directly to the roof deck, forming a seamless waterproof barrier—crucial when shingles are damaged or torn away during a hurricane.
| Feature / Factor | Peel-and-Stick Underlayment | Synthetic Underlayment | Felt Underlayment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water Resistance | Excellent (fully adhered) | Very good | Moderate |
| Wind Uplift Protection | Superior | Good | Low |
| Florida Code Compliance | Preferred/required in HVHZ | Meets/exceeds | Limited/declining |
| Typical Applications | Valleys, eaves, full roof | Full roof, all systems | Limited, budget installs |
| Insurance Incentives | Often qualifies for discount | Sometimes | Rare |
| Cost | Highest upfront | Mid-range | Lowest upfront |
Installing a peel-and-stick underlayment can also help Florida homeowners qualify for insurance discounts, thanks to state statutes mandating credits for windstorm mitigation features like secondary water resistance barriers (paulbangeroofing.com). These underlayments are often required in High-Velocity Hurricane Zones like Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
“Peel and stick underlayment is quickly becoming the gold standard for roofing protection in the Sunshine State,” notes Florida Roofing & Gutters.
For more on peel-and-stick and other advanced underlayment systems, explore our roofing materials page.
What to Stage with Underlayment So Installs Don’t Stall
Proper staging of your roofing materials is just as crucial as choosing the right underlayment. Here’s a step-by-step approach to keep your Florida roofing job on track:
- Order Compatible Fasteners and Sealants: Confirm that all fasteners and sealants are compatible with your chosen underlayment and roof system.
- Label and Protect Materials: Store rolls in a shaded, dry area and label them for each roof section.
- Plan for Proper Overlap and Sealing: Check manufacturer and Florida Building Code guidelines for overlap and sealing requirements. Don’t forget to include adequate roof ventilation pieces, which are crucial for prolonging underlayment and roof system life.
- Schedule Delivery for Weather Windows: Use Florida’s narrow dry periods to your advantage by scheduling delivery and installation efficiently. Schedule delivery directly from our services team.
- Pro Tip: Skipping a secondary water barrier can dramatically increase the risk of water intrusion during storms, especially if shingles are damaged—leading to expensive interior repairs (paulbangeroofing.com).
For more on planning your jobs, learn about our roofing material delivery options.
Quick Ordering Checklist: Florida Underlayment Edition
Before you order, use this checklist to ensure your underlayment project meets Florida’s standards and is ready for anything the weather brings:
- Confirm the material is compliant with the latest Florida Building Code.
- Choose synthetic or peel-and-stick for maximum protection and insurance benefits.
- Stage companion items: fasteners, sealants, and secondary barriers.
- Document your installation for warranty and insurance purposes. Keep all product labels and code compliance certificates on file to streamline future inspections.
- Schedule delivery and installation to avoid unnecessary sun exposure.
Non-compliance with Florida Building Code requirements for underlayment can result in inspection failures and increase your roof’s vulnerability to storm damage (triangleroofingusa.com).
For a full list of available options, browse our roofing materials directory.
FAQ
What’s the best underlayment choice for Florida roofs?
For most Florida roofs, synthetic underlayment is the go-to for full-roof coverage, while peel-and-stick is often preferred or required in high-risk areas like eaves, valleys, and HVHZ zones.
When should I use peel-and-stick underlayment instead of synthetic?
Use peel-and-stick when you need maximum water protection and wind-driven rain resistance, especially in Miami-Dade and Broward HVHZ areas or where secondary water resistance is required.
Is felt underlayment still acceptable in Florida?
Sometimes, but it’s used less often because it absorbs moisture and breaks down faster under Florida heat and humidity, and it may not align with newer code expectations for many applications.
Does underlayment choice affect inspections or insurance in Florida?
Yes, because Florida code compliance and documented wind-mitigation features (like secondary water resistance) can impact inspection outcomes and may help with insurance credits depending on jurisdiction and installation.
References
- Atlas Roofing. (n.d.). UV Protection with Summit 180 Underlayment. https://www.atlasroofing.com/asphalt-life/uv-protection-with-summit-180-underlayment
- Southwest Orlando Bulletin. (n.d.). How Florida Weather Impacts Your Roof and Driveway Maintenance. https://www.southwestorlandobulletin.com/how-florida-weather-impacts-your-roof-and-driveway-maintenance/
- Triangle Roofing USA. (n.d.). Underlayment Options in Florida for a New Roof. https://www.triangleroofingusa.com/post/underlayment-options-in-florida-for-a-new-roof
- Pitch Roofing. (n.d.). Synthetic Roof Underlayment Pros & Cons in Florida. https://pitchroofing.com/roofing/synthetic-roof-underlayment/
- Paul Bange Roofing. (n.d.). Peel & Stick Preparation Video. https://www.paulbangeroofing.com/blog/peel-stick-preparation-video/
- Florida Roofing & Gutters. (n.d.). Peel and Stick Roof Underlayment Florida. https://floridaroofingandgutters.com/blog/peel-and-stick-roof-underlayment-florida/
