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10 Best Underlayment For Metal Roof 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,341
Material Type
Water Resistance
Installation Ease

Most important from
10 reviews

Material Type
Delivers excellent quality that meets professional standards.
Water Resistance
Adheres strongly to OSB sheathing, providing reliable waterproof protection in critical areas like valleys.
Installation Ease
Installation is straightforward and fast, requiring just a razor knife and ideally a helper for best results.

The ZIP System Peel and Stick Underlayment is designed to protect metal roofs from water damage, especially in vulnerable spots like eaves and valleys where ice dams and wind-driven rain are common. It’s made with a rubberized asphalt material that creates a strong, waterproof seal around nails, which helps prevent leaks effectively. The product is quite thin at 0.04 inches, making it lightweight and easy to handle during installation, and its slip-resistant surface adds safety while working on the roof.

It can withstand temperatures up to 260°F, which is helpful if you live in a hot climate or if the roof surface gets very warm. While UV resistance isn’t specifically mentioned, underlayments like this are typically covered by the metal roofing itself, so long sun exposure is usually not a big concern. The self-adhesive backing makes it quicker to install compared to traditional felt paper, saving time and effort.

One possible downside is that it may be heavier than some alternatives at 51 pounds due to its dense material, though this weight also suggests durability. This underlayment meets building codes for ice and water barriers, giving extra confidence in its reliability. If you want an easy-to-apply, waterproof layer to add protection under your metal roof, this product offers solid performance with a focus on durability and temperature tolerance.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,341
Material Type
Water Resistance
Installation Ease

Most important from
10 reviews

Material Type
Delivers excellent quality that meets professional standards.
Water Resistance
Adheres strongly to OSB sheathing, providing reliable waterproof protection in critical areas like valleys.
Installation Ease
Installation is straightforward and fast, requiring just a razor knife and ideally a helper for best results.
#2

Grace Self Adhering Ice and Water Shield Roof Underlayment HT (G77511)

Rating
10.0
Material Type
Water Resistance
Installation Ease

Most important from
10 reviews

Material Type
The underlayment delivers solid durability and maintains a tight seal under stress.
Water Resistance
The product forms a strong, waterproof seal that adheres firmly to wood sheathing.
Installation Ease
Installation is straightforward thanks to the adhesive backing, making it easy to apply without extra fasteners.

The Grace Self Adhering Ice and Water Shield Roof Underlayment HT is designed to protect roofs, including metal ones, from water damage and harsh weather. It’s made from a rubberized asphalt material with a tough polyethylene film that sticks firmly to surfaces, helping it seal tightly around nails or fasteners. This self-adhesive feature means installation is relatively straightforward, without needing extra adhesives or fasteners. The underlayment is 40 mils thick, which offers solid protection and durability.

It can tolerate high temperatures, making it suitable for use under metal roofs that can get hot under the sun. Additionally, it resists UV exposure for up to 120 days, so it won’t degrade quickly if left uncovered during installation or delays. The slip-resistant surface also adds safety for installers working on inclined roofs. One thing to keep in mind is the roll weight—over 50 pounds per roll—so handling might be a bit heavy for some users.

While it offers good water resistance and sealing around fasteners, the product is primarily designed for ice and water protection rather than as a complete vapor barrier, which might be important depending on your climate. With a strong tensile strength membrane, it holds up well under stress, supporting long-term roof integrity. This product is a solid choice for homeowners or contractors looking for a reliable, high-temperature underlayment with enhanced adhesion and protection beneath metal roofing.

Rating
10.0
Material Type
Water Resistance
Installation Ease

Most important from
10 reviews

Material Type
The underlayment delivers solid durability and maintains a tight seal under stress.
Water Resistance
The product forms a strong, waterproof seal that adheres firmly to wood sheathing.
Installation Ease
Installation is straightforward thanks to the adhesive backing, making it easy to apply without extra fasteners.
#3

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

Rating
8.8
Installation Ease

Most important from
10 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
8.8
Installation Ease

Most important from
10 reviews

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

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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