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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 (Standard Temp)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,192
Installation Ease

Most important from
8 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
10.0
Chosen by1,192
Installation Ease

Most important from
8 reviews

Installation Ease
Ease of installation is self-explanatory; durability is well-proven, and all you need is a razor knife to cut it.
#2

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

Rating
10.0
Material Type
Water Resistance
Installation Ease

Most important from
76 reviews

Material Type
This self-adhesive roofing material has been in place for five years, still looks new, and adheres firmly to the roof and edge flashing.
Water Resistance
Great for sealing roof edges, solving long-term leak issues effectively.
Installation Ease
The product laid down easily, following a straight chalk line and did a good job on a flat, sloping roof.

The MFM Peel & Seal Self Stick Roll Roofing is designed specifically for users looking for an effective underlayment solution for metal roofs. One of its key strengths is its waterproof seal, which is essential for protecting your roof from leaks and moisture. The material is aluminum, ensuring durability, and its thickness of 45 mils offers a solid barrier against the elements. Additionally, this product is easy to install; it sticks to almost any surface without the need for additional adhesives, making it a great option for DIYers. It's particularly beneficial for those with RVs and trailer homes due to its compatibility with low slope and low pitch roofs.

The roll length of 33 feet 6 inches might be limiting for larger projects, meaning multiple rolls could be necessary.

The MFM Peel & Seal is a strong choice for those in need of reliable underlayment for low slope metal roofs, especially for smaller applications or recreational vehicles. However, potential buyers should keep in mind the environmental conditions they are working in and plan their material needs accordingly.

Rating
10.0
Material Type
Water Resistance
Installation Ease

Most important from
76 reviews

Material Type
This self-adhesive roofing material has been in place for five years, still looks new, and adheres firmly to the roof and edge flashing.
Water Resistance
Great for sealing roof edges, solving long-term leak issues effectively.
Installation Ease
The product laid down easily, following a straight chalk line and did a good job on a flat, sloping roof.
#3

Tyvek Protec 160 Roof Underlayment - 4' x 250' - 1 Roll

Rating
9.7
Material Type
Temperature Tolerance
UV Resistance

Most important from
81 reviews

Material Type
Its durability stands out with impressive resistance to tearing and the ability to fasten securely even in windy conditions.
Temperature Tolerance
The material’s fire resistance supports use in fire-prone areas, making it a reliable choice for metal roofs requiring Class A ratings.
UV Resistance
The membrane shrinks slightly under sunlight, which helps it pull flat naturally, although extra fasteners are needed to keep edges secure.
Installation Ease
The underlayment provides a reassuringly safe and stable surface to walk on during installation, enhancing installer confidence.

The Tyvek Protec 160 Roof Underlayment is a reliable option for metal roof installations, known for its strong DuPont quality and durability. It excels in walkability, allowing installers to move around safely on the roof during setup. The material lays flat nicely, helping create a smooth surface underneath metal panels, which can improve the finish.

It also acts as a secondary moisture barrier, protecting the roof deck from water damage during and after installation. One handy feature is that it accepts chalk marks well, making it easier to mark measurements for precise cutting and placement. Installation is generally straightforward, but because it weighs over 30 pounds per roll, handling might require some effort.

This underlayment suits homeowners or contractors looking for a trustworthy, easy-to-work-with moisture barrier under metal roofs, especially in moderate climates where detailed extreme weather specifications are less critical.

Rating
9.7
Material Type
Temperature Tolerance
UV Resistance

Most important from
81 reviews

Material Type
Its durability stands out with impressive resistance to tearing and the ability to fasten securely even in windy conditions.
Temperature Tolerance
The material’s fire resistance supports use in fire-prone areas, making it a reliable choice for metal roofs requiring Class A ratings.
UV Resistance
The membrane shrinks slightly under sunlight, which helps it pull flat naturally, although extra fasteners are needed to keep edges secure.
Installation Ease
The underlayment provides a reassuringly safe and stable surface to walk on during installation, enhancing installer confidence.

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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