Synthetic Underlayment vs. Old-School Felt: Why Modern Roofing Systems Are Superior — And Why Ralphie’s Roofing Is Philadelphia’s Preferred GAF & Owens Corning Installer
When homeowners think about replacing their roof, they usually focus on the shingles. But what truly determines whether your roof lasts 15 years or 30+ years is what’s installed underneath those shingles.
At Ralphie’s Roofing, we build complete roofing systems — not just shingle layers. That means upgrading from outdated felt paper to premium synthetic underlayment, paired with proper ice and water shield protection.
If you live in Philadelphia, Bucks County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, or South Jersey — this difference matters.
Let’s break it down.
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What Is Roof Underlayment?
Underlayment is the protective barrier installed directly over your roof deck before shingles are applied. It acts as a secondary defense against:
• Wind-driven rain
• Ice dam backup
• Snow melt
• Condensation
• Storm damage
If water gets past your shingles, your underlayment is what protects your wood decking and interior ceilings.
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The Problem with Old-School Felt Paper
For decades, asphalt-saturated felt paper was the industry standard. But today, it’s considered outdated technology.
Here’s why:
❌ It Tears Easily
Felt paper rips during installation and can tear in high winds before shingles are even installed.
❌ It Absorbs Water
Once wet, felt wrinkles and buckles. Those wrinkles telegraph through shingles and create uneven surfaces.
❌ It Breaks Down Over Time
Heat from the attic and UV exposure degrade felt much faster than modern materials.
❌ It Does NOT Seal Around Nails
If water backs up from an ice dam, felt does not create a watertight seal around nail penetrations.
In Philadelphia winters — especially on row homes — this can lead to serious leaks.
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The Superiority of Synthetic Underlayment
Modern synthetic underlayment is engineered for strength, durability, and long-term performance.
✅ Stronger & Tear-Resistant
Synthetic materials are significantly stronger than felt and resist ripping in high winds.
✅ Water-Resistant, Not Water-Absorbing
Unlike felt, synthetic underlayment repels water. It won’t wrinkle or break down when exposed to moisture.
✅ Lightweight & Safer
It provides better traction for installers and lays flatter on the roof deck.
✅ Long-Term Durability
It resists heat damage and holds up far longer in Northeast climates.
When installed properly, synthetic underlayment adds an extra layer of protection that felt simply cannot match.
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The Critical Role of Ice & Water Shield
While synthetic underlayment protects the main roof deck, ice and water shield is installed in high-risk areas:
• Eaves
• Valleys
• Around chimneys
• Around skylights
• Around drain boxes
• Low-slope transitions
Ice & water shield is self-adhering and seals around nails, creating a waterproof barrier.
In Philadelphia winters, snow melts and refreezes at the eaves. Without ice and water shield, water backs up under shingles and leaks into your home.
Felt paper cannot stop that.
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Why Shingle Quality Also Matters
Once your underlayment system is properly installed, the next layer of protection is your shingles.
At Ralphie’s Roofing, we specialize in installing architectural stone-coated asphalt shingles from:
• GAF
• Owens Corning
These manufacturers produce some of the most durable and attractive shingles in North America.
GAF Architectural Shingles
Known for advanced adhesive technology and strong wind resistance, GAF shingles are engineered to perform in high-wind and freeze-thaw climates.
Owens Corning Architectural Shingles
With SureNail® technology and bold dimensional color blends, Owens Corning shingles provide strength and exceptional curb appeal.
Both brands significantly outperform old 3-tab shingles in lifespan, wind resistance, and durability.
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Why Ralphie’s Roofing Is the Preferred Contractor
Premium materials are only as good as the contractor installing them.
Here’s what makes Ralphie’s Roofing the trusted choice in Philadelphia and surrounding counties:
1️⃣ Full Roofing System Installation
We don’t cut corners with felt paper. We install:
• Premium synthetic underlayment
• Ice & water shield in all critical areas
• Proper drip edge
• Correct flashing systems
• Manufacturer-approved installation methods
2️⃣ Precision Nailing & Installation
Improper nail placement is a leading cause of shingle blow-offs. Our crews follow exact manufacturer specifications for GAF and Owens Corning systems.
3️⃣ Local Experience with Row Homes & Suburban Properties
Philadelphia roofing requires knowledge of:
• Drain box systems
• Flat-to-pitched transitions
• Tight row home spacing
• Proper water management
We understand how to build roofing systems that handle local weather conditions.
4️⃣ Built on Trust. Backed by Quality.
We are a family-owned roofing company serving Philadelphia, Bucks County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, and South Jersey.
We believe in installing roofs the right way the first time.
The Bottom Line
If you’re investing in:
• Synthetic underlayment
• Proper ice & water shield
• GAF architectural shingles
• Owens Corning architectural shingles
Make sure you choose a contractor who installs the entire roofing system properly.
For superior roofing systems built to withstand Philadelphia weather, contact:
Ralphie’s Roofing
📞 267-408-5402
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www.RalphiesRoofing.com
Free inspections. Free estimates. Premium materials. Professional craftsmanship.
