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10 Best Underlayment For Metal Roof 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,382
Material Type
Water Resistance
Installation Ease

Most important from
104 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
9.7
Chosen by1,382
Material Type
Water Resistance
Installation Ease

Most important from
104 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.
#2

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

Rating
9.4
Installation Ease

Most important from
7 reviews

Installation Ease
Ease of installation is self-explanatory; durability is well-proven, and all you need is a razor knife to cut it.

The ZIP System Peel and Stick Underlayment is designed to offer robust protection against leaks and water damage, making it suitable for areas prone to ice dams or heavy rain, such as eaves and valleys. The material used is a high-performance rubberized asphalt, which is known for its durability and ability to seal around nails, enhancing its water resistance.

With a slip-resistant surface, this underlayment is relatively easy to install, even for those with less experience in roofing projects. Its maximum service temperature of 260 degrees Fahrenheit ensures that it can withstand high temperatures without degrading, adding to its reliability over time.

Its bulky size (66.7 x 1 x 0.04 inches) and weight (51 pounds) might make it difficult to handle for some users. Those with moderate to heavy roofing needs, especially in climates with significant ice or rain, will likely benefit the most from this underlayment.

Rating
9.4
Installation Ease

Most important from
7 reviews

Installation Ease
Ease of installation is self-explanatory; durability is well-proven, and all you need is a razor knife to cut it.
#3

Titanium PSU30 Peel & Stick Roof Underlayment

Rating
9.2
Material Type
Temperature Tolerance
UV Resistance

Most important from
25 reviews

Material Type
This underlayment is incredibly tough and outperforms traditional tar paper.
Temperature Tolerance
The adhesive is remarkably strong, ensuring it sticks firmly even in high temperatures.
UV Resistance
It can be left exposed without shingles for a while, thanks to its durability and UV resistance.
Installation Ease
It offers excellent traction, making it safer to walk on during installation.

The Titanium PSU30 Peel & Stick Roof Underlayment is designed for durability and performance, especially suited for metal roofs. Made by INTERWRAP, it features a watertight asphalt lap system, ensuring strong water resistance, which is crucial in keeping your roof protected from leaks. Its thickness of 45 mils adds to its robustness and effectiveness in providing a solid layer of protection. One standout feature is its all-temperature performance, functioning well in extreme temperatures from -40°F to 240°F. This makes it versatile for various climates.

Additionally, it offers UV resistance for up to 6 months, which is beneficial if the underlayment is exposed to sunlight before the roof installation is complete. The SURE-FOOT slip-resistant technology makes installation safer and easier, which is a significant advantage for those doing the work themselves or concerned about job site safety. However, at 48 pounds per roll, it might be somewhat heavy to handle during installation. The dimensions of each roll are 72 feet long and 36 inches wide, covering a substantial area of 2 square feet per roll.

While it ranks #75 in Flooring Underlayments, it might not be the top choice for everyone, especially if lighter or more budget-friendly options are preferred. If you need a reliable and robust underlayment for a metal roof, this product appears to meet those needs effectively.

Rating
9.2
Material Type
Temperature Tolerance
UV Resistance

Most important from
25 reviews

Material Type
This underlayment is incredibly tough and outperforms traditional tar paper.
Temperature Tolerance
The adhesive is remarkably strong, ensuring it sticks firmly even in high temperatures.
UV Resistance
It can be left exposed without shingles for a while, thanks to its durability and UV resistance.
Installation Ease
It offers excellent traction, making it safer to walk on during installation.

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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