Substitute for Roofing Paper

Synthetic

• Regular roofing paper is made from asphalt. Synthetic alternatives have emerged that offer a number of benefits. Synthetic roofing underlayments are usually based on either polypropylene or polyethylene plastics. The benefits of these products include their light weight and durability. Synthetic products have also been shown to be more weather resistant than traditional roofing paper. The downside of these products is that they are slightly more costly, and if installed incorrectly, such as with staples, they will not function well.

Combination Products

• Some products combine fiber products with synthetics. Manufacturers do this for very specific purposes, such as controlling moisture. This type of underlay is used for metal roofing, for example. The bottom layer allows moisture to breathe through to the second layer, which drains it away, preventing the moisture from sitting against the metal where it could lead to rusting.

Self-Adhering Products

• Traditional roofing felt needs to be attached to the roof using roofing nails or staples. Other products adhere directly to the roof. Self-adhering products usually have a backing paper, like a large sticker, that needs to be removed to start the product sticking to the roof. Self-adhering products have top surfaces that include synthetic products or products made from natural asphalt fibers that more closely resemble regular roofing paper.

Foam

• Flat roofs need a different type of roof. However, this doesn't mean just resorting to liquid built-up roofs. Instead, use a foam product that screws down to the roof decking. This foam is used in combination with products, such as rubber roofing, attached to the underlay with glue instead of nails or screws.