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10 Best Underlayment For Metal Roof 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9  score

FT Synthetics Platinum HT Butyl Self Adhering Underlayment (Pallet of 36)

Material Type: 100% butyl
Thickness: 41 mils
Water Resistance: watertight laps
Installation Ease: self-adhering

Chosen by 1403 this week

SIPA 100 GSM Synthetic Waterproof Roof Underlayment 48” x 250' (10)

Material Type: non woven PP laminated with PE
Thickness: 100 GSM
Water Resistance: Waterproof
UV Resistance: up to 60 days

Tyvek Protec 120 Roof Underlayment 4' x 250' - 1 Roll

Material Type: Tyvek
Thickness: 6.3 Inches
Water Resistance: Excellent
UV Resistance: Excellent
Installation Ease: Safer and easier

ArmorLay 25 Synthetic Roof Underlayment 4' x 250'

Material Type: polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Water Resistance: Water resistant; protective, not fully waterproof
UV Resistance: Resists UV exposure for 60 days
Installation Ease: Slip-resistant bottom; heavy roll needs two

MFM Peel & Seal Self Stick Roll Roofing (1, 36in. Gray)

Material Type: Aluminum
Thickness: 45 mils
Water Resistance: waterproof seal
Installation Ease: easy to install

Grace Construction 222287 Products 36-in x 36-ft 100-sq ft Rubber Roof Underlayment

Material Type: rubberized asphalt
Thickness: 40 mils
Water Resistance: excellent
UV Resistance: 120 days
Installation Ease: ripcord split release, slip-resistant

Titanium PSU30 Peel & Stick Roof Underlayment

Thickness: 45 Mils
Water Resistance: Waterproof
Temperature Tolerance: -40°F to 240°F
UV Resistance: 6 months
Installation Ease: SURE-FOOT slip-resistant tech

ZIP System Peel and Stick Underlayment | Waterproof Ice and Water Barrier Roof Underlayment (Standard Temp)

Material Type: high-performance rubberized asphalt
Thickness: 0.04 inches
Water Resistance: enhancing water resistance
Temperature Tolerance: 260 degrees Fahrenheit
Installation Ease: easy to install

SIPA 100 GSM Synthetic Waterproof Roof Underlayment 48” x 250' (1)

Material Type: non woven PP with PE
Water Resistance: water resistant
UV Resistance: up to 60 days
Installation Ease: easy to install
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

FT Synthetics Platinum HT Butyl Self Adhering Underlayment (Pallet of 36)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,403
Temperature Tolerance
Installation Ease

Most important from
18 reviews

Temperature Tolerance
Excellent protection until the metal roof is installed, even in 45° weather.
Installation Ease
This underlayment goes down easily and sticks well even in cool weather.

The FT Synthetics Platinum HT Butyl Self Adhering Underlayment stands out as a solid choice for those looking to install or upgrade a metal roof. One of its key strengths is the 100% butyl composition, which ensures a strong bond to plywood or OSB roof decks. This self-adhering feature makes installation easier, especially for DIY enthusiasts or contractors. With a thickness of 41 mils, it provides robust protection and durability. Additionally, it is compatible with low slope roofing materials such as EPDM and TPO, which is a plus for varied projects.

Water resistance is another highlight; the underlayment offers watertight laps, effectively preventing leaks and ensuring longevity in various weather conditions. Its temperature tolerance and UV resistance make it suitable for diverse climates, enhancing its utility across regions.

While it performs well, there are some factors to consider. The coverage per roll is 200 square feet, which may require purchasing multiple rolls for larger roofs, potentially increasing costs. Its weight at 40 lbs per roll can also be cumbersome and may require additional handling considerations during installation. This product is ideal for homeowners or professionals seeking reliable underlayment for metal roofs, particularly where low slope options are involved. However, those with larger projects should plan for extra rolls and consider the installation weight.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,403
Temperature Tolerance
Installation Ease

Most important from
18 reviews

Temperature Tolerance
Excellent protection until the metal roof is installed, even in 45° weather.
Installation Ease
This underlayment goes down easily and sticks well even in cool weather.
#2

SIPA 100 GSM Synthetic Waterproof Roof Underlayment 48” x 250' (10)

Rating
9.8
Material Type
Water Resistance
Installation Ease

Most important from
108 reviews

Material Type
The underlayment is remarkably tough and maintains a flat, smooth surface even after prolonged exposure to the elements.
Water Resistance
The product consistently provides reliable waterproof protection, performing well over multiple years without degradation.
Installation Ease
Its lightweight nature compared to older materials makes it easier to handle and install on the roof.

The SIPA 100 GSM Synthetic Waterproof Roof Underlayment is designed for both residential and commercial roofs, including metal roofing applications. It uses a non-woven polypropylene material laminated with polyethylene, which makes it waterproof and durable. Its 100 GSM thickness provides a solid barrier without being too bulky, balancing protection and ease of handling. One of its strong points is its excellent water resistance, ensuring your roof stays dry under harsh weather conditions. It also offers UV resistance for up to 60 days, which is helpful during installation before the final roofing goes on.

The material is stable and won’t buckle, warp, or crack, which means it maintains a smooth surface beneath shingles or metal sheets. Installation should be straightforward for most users since it comes in a large 48-inch wide roll that covers 1,000 square feet, minimizing the number of seams and overlaps. The product meets key industry standards (ASTM D4869, ASTM D226) and has relevant approvals, reflecting its reliability.

Weighing 80 pounds per 10-roll package, it might be somewhat heavy to handle alone, which could make installation more challenging for some. For those seeking a dependable, waterproof underlayment with good UV protection and sturdy material suitable for metal or asphalt roofs, this product is a strong choice. It is advisable to plan ahead for its weight and size during installation.

Rating
9.8
Material Type
Water Resistance
Installation Ease

Most important from
108 reviews

Material Type
The underlayment is remarkably tough and maintains a flat, smooth surface even after prolonged exposure to the elements.
Water Resistance
The product consistently provides reliable waterproof protection, performing well over multiple years without degradation.
Installation Ease
Its lightweight nature compared to older materials makes it easier to handle and install on the roof.
#3

Tyvek Protec 120 Roof Underlayment 4' x 250' - 1 Roll

Rating
9.5
Installation Ease

Most important from
157 reviews

Installation Ease
Easy to install and offers great value, with quality that stands out.

The Tyvek Protec 120 Roof Underlayment is a well-regarded option for those looking to install or repair metal roofs, as well as other roofing types like asphalt and cedar shingles. One of its standout features is its trusted quality from DuPont Tyvek, which brings durability and reliability to your roofing project. With a decent thickness of 6.3 inches, it provides a solid barrier against moisture, which is crucial for preventing leaks and damage over time. Additionally, the underlayment boasts excellent water resistance and UV protection, vital for roofs exposed to harsh weather conditions and sunlight.

Another strength is its unique embossed pattern designed to improve traction and grip, making installation safer and easier for users working on roofs. This feature can be particularly beneficial for DIY enthusiasts who may not have professional experience with roofing.

This product has a lot going for it, though there are some considerations to keep in mind. Its weight at 24.6 pounds might make it somewhat cumbersome for single-person handling, particularly during installation. The Tyvek Protec 120 serves as a solid choice for underlayment in metal roofing projects, particularly for those valuing durability and ease of installation. Just be mindful of its weight during handling.

Rating
9.5
Installation Ease

Most important from
157 reviews

Installation Ease
Easy to install and offers great value, with quality that stands out.

Buying Guide for the Best Underlayment For Metal Roof

Choosing the right underlayment for your metal roof is crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your roofing system. Underlayment acts as a protective barrier between the metal roof and the roof deck, providing additional protection against moisture, heat, and other environmental factors. Understanding the key specifications and how they relate to your specific needs will help you make an informed decision.
Material TypeThe material type of the underlayment is important because it determines the durability, water resistance, and overall performance of the underlayment. Common materials include asphalt-saturated felt, synthetic underlayment, and rubberized asphalt. Asphalt-saturated felt is traditional and cost-effective but less durable. Synthetic underlayment is lightweight, tear-resistant, and offers superior water resistance. Rubberized asphalt provides excellent waterproofing and is self-sealing around nails. Choose the material based on the climate and specific needs of your roof.
ThicknessThickness of the underlayment affects its durability and protective qualities. Thicker underlayments generally offer better protection against moisture and physical damage. Underlayments typically range from 15 to 45 mils in thickness. For areas with heavy rainfall or snow, a thicker underlayment is advisable. For milder climates, a thinner underlayment may suffice. Consider the environmental conditions and the level of protection you need when selecting the thickness.
Water ResistanceWater resistance is a critical spec because it determines how well the underlayment can prevent water from penetrating the roof deck. High water resistance is essential in areas prone to heavy rain or snow. Underlayments are rated for their water resistance, with some being fully waterproof and others being water-resistant. Fully waterproof underlayments are ideal for areas with extreme weather conditions, while water-resistant options may be suitable for less severe climates. Assess the typical weather patterns in your area to determine the necessary level of water resistance.
Temperature ToleranceTemperature tolerance indicates the range of temperatures the underlayment can withstand without degrading. This is important for ensuring the underlayment performs well in both hot and cold climates. Underlayments with higher temperature tolerance are better suited for areas with extreme temperature fluctuations. Look for underlayments that can handle the highest and lowest temperatures expected in your region to ensure long-term performance.
UV ResistanceUV resistance is important because it determines how well the underlayment can withstand exposure to sunlight before the metal roof is installed. Prolonged UV exposure can degrade the underlayment, reducing its effectiveness. Underlayments with high UV resistance can be exposed to sunlight for longer periods without damage. If there is a possibility of delayed installation of the metal roof, choose an underlayment with good UV resistance to ensure it remains intact and effective.
Installation EaseEase of installation affects the time and effort required to properly install the underlayment. Some underlayments are designed to be easier to handle and install, with features like peel-and-stick application or pre-marked nailing guides. If you are planning a DIY installation or want to reduce labor costs, look for underlayments that are user-friendly and come with clear installation instructions. Consider your installation capabilities and the complexity of the underlayment when making your choice.

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