Best Roofers Keene TX: Roof Underlayment Types
Roofs in Keene and across Johnson County don’t just face sunshine and pretty sunsets. We get fast‑moving thunderstorms, spring hail, surprise cold snaps, and sticky summer heat that bakes shingles all afternoon. The surface you see from the curb matters, but the thin, hidden layer under those shingles often decides whether your roof shrugs off the abuse or lets it in. That hidden layer is the underlayment.
I’ve torn off roofs in Cleburne that were only eight years old but rotted at the eaves because the wrong felt was used and seams were gapped. I’ve also inspected 18‑year‑old roofs in Joshua that survived two hail seasons with minimal damage, partly because a peel‑and‑stick membrane sealed the deck and kept water from driving into nail holes. When homeowners ask the best roofers Keene TX has to offer why underlayment matters, we point to those case studies, not theories. The difference is real, and the dollars are too.
What underlayment actually does
Underlayment is your roof’s backup plan. Shingles or metal panels shed most of the water, but wind‑driven rain, ice dams at the eaves, and capillary action can get moisture underneath. A good underlayment handles four jobs. First, it acts as a secondary water barrier when shingles lift or split. Second, it offers temporary dry‑in protection during installation in case a storm rolls in before the roof is finished. Third, it smooths minor irregularities in the deck so shingles lay flat and fasten evenly. Fourth, it plays a role in fire, slip resistance for installers, and long‑term heat management.
Not every product does these jobs equally well. The right choice depends on your roof covering, slope, budget, and local risks. In Johnson County that usually means wind‑driven rain, hail impacts that loosen shingle seals, and the occasional ice event that creates dams at the eaves. Build to those risks, and your roof lasts longer.
The main types, plain language
You’ll see four broad families of underlayment on bids from the best roofers Keene TX, Cleburne, and Joshua residents rely on. Each has strengths. Each has moments where it is the wrong tool.
Asphalt‑saturated felt
Old‑school felt, often called felt paper or tar paper, comes in 15‑pound and 30‑pound grades. The numbers are legacy terms, but the idea stands: 30‑pound is thicker and tougher than 15‑pound. Felt uses an organic or fiberglass mat saturated with asphalt. It’s affordable and familiar. Plenty of veteran crews know how to install it fast and my roofing roofers tx clean.
Where it shines: budget shingle roofs on moderate slopes where the roof gets dried in and shingled the same day. It lays decently, allows shingles to slide into position, and has been used on millions of roofs.
Where it fails: prolonged exposure. Under the Keene sun, 15‑pound felt can wrinkle in a day or two, telegraphing bumps through the shingles. If wind lifts shingles later, wrinkled felt can wick water instead of shedding it. It also tears easier under foot traffic, which matters on complex roofs with a lot of valleys and hips.
Synthetic underlayment
Synthetics use woven or spun polypropylene or polyethylene with coatings to shed water. Brand names vary, but the principle is similar. They’re light, strong, and often rated for longer UV exposure than felt.
Where it shines: most modern shingle roofs. Synthetics resist tearing when a gust hits a half‑installed section. They lay flat, don’t wrinkle with early morning dew and midday heat, and can stay exposed for a week or more if the crew staggers work due to weather. Good synthetics have textured surfaces that help with traction, a small safety benefit on steep pitches. For homeowners aiming for longevity without breaking the bank, a quality synthetic is the everyday workhorse.
Where it fails: it doesn’t self‑seal around nails unless stated by the manufacturer, and even then, it isn’t a true ice‑barrier product. In eave and valley zones, you still want something that adheres to the deck and seals around fasteners.
Peel‑and‑stick ice and water shield
This is the adhesive‑backed membrane most people call ice and water shield. It bonds to the deck, seals around nails, and turns valleys and eaves into watertight zones. There are standard and high‑temp versions. High‑temp matters under metal roofing or in extremely hot exposures to prevent adhesive flow.
Where it shines: eaves, valleys, around chimneys, skylights, and along dead‑fall walls where a roof meets a vertical surface. In Johnson County, it is especially helpful at the first 24 to 72 inches from the eave, where ice dams can form during rare freezes, and where wind‑driven rain tries to get under the starter course. After hail, when shingle seals might be compromised, that self‑sealing layer can be the thing that keeps a slow leak from wetting the plywood.
Where it fails: roof‑wide coverage under asphalt shingles in extreme heat without the right product choice. Use high‑temp versions if the roof deck will run hot, like on low‑slope, dark‑shingle roofs with little attic ventilation. Also, peel‑and‑stick is unforgiving. Once you set it, it’s set. A sloppy install traps bubbles and makes repairs messy.
High‑temp membranes for metal and tile
Metal panels and some clay or concrete tile systems run hot. They can cook a standard peel‑and‑stick or deform synthetics not rated for high temperatures. High‑temp synthetic or high‑temp self‑adhered membranes carry higher service temperature ratings and retain adhesive integrity.
Where it shines: standing seam metal roofs across Cleburne or Joshua, stone‑coated steel in hail‑prone zones, and tile installations. These roofs shed water well, but any condensation or wind‑driven intrusion underneath needs a membrane that won’t slump or ooze in August.
Where it fails: price. You pay more, often double or more than basic synthetics. For asphalt shingles on a typical Keene home, it may be overkill except in special areas.
Building a package that fits Keene and Johnson County
The best roofers Johnson County TX homeowners trust don’t treat underlayment like a one‑line commodity. They spec different materials in different zones of the same roof. A common, proven setup looks like this: a high‑quality synthetic across the field, peel‑and‑stick in valleys and at eaves, more peel‑and‑stick around penetrations, and metal flashing details that lap correctly. That hybrid approach balances budget with real protection in the leak‑prone areas.
I’ll give you two quick examples. A ranch home in Keene, 6‑in‑12 pitch, full sun. We ran a textured synthetic for the field and 36 inches of self‑adhered at the eaves, 2 courses in valleys. The roof saw a storm with 60‑plus mph gusts mid‑install. The synthetic stayed put, shingles went on the next day, and roofing contractors johnson county tx there were zero wrinkles telegraphing through the final surface. Different situation: a modern farmhouse outside Joshua with a 2‑in‑12 porch tie‑in that looked almost flat. We used high‑temp peel‑and‑stick for that low‑slope zone under modified shingles, then transitioned to standard synthetic on the steeper main roof. That tie‑in is dry to this day because the membrane did the real work where slope couldn’t.
Codes, warranties, and the fine print
Texas statewide code references the International Residential Code, but enforcement varies. Johnson County and the cities of Keene, Cleburne, and Joshua often follow IRC standards requiring underlayment on all roof decks, with ice barriers in certain conditions. Even when an ice barrier is not mandated, insurers and shingle manufacturers may indirectly demand it through warranty and claim language. Most major shingle makers want underlayment installed per their instructions to keep warranty coverage intact. That includes lap directions, fastener spacing, and special treatment at valleys and eaves.
If you’re comparing bids, ask each contractor to name the exact underlayment brand and model. “Synthetic felt” could mean a 7‑mil budget roll or a 12‑ to 16‑mil premium with better UV tolerance and nail‑pull resistance. That difference shows up if a storm hits mid‑project, or five years later when a seal breaks around a pipe boot.
Heat, attic ventilation, and why underlayment still matters
Some homeowners assume ventilation fixes everything. Good soffit and ridge venting helps, but it doesn’t replace what underlayment does. Underlayment deals with liquid water. Ventilation manages heat and vapor. You want both, working together. In the Keene sun, attic temps can reach 130 to 150 degrees on a still July afternoon. That heat cycles the roof daily, stressing adhesives and the shingle sealant line. A high‑quality underlayment tolerates those cycles without shrinking, wrinkling, or turning brittle.
On older homes in Cleburne with plank decking instead of plywood, the gaps between boards demand a stiffer, tear‑resistant underlayment. Thin felt can sag between boards and invite punctures when the crew walks the roof. If you have plank decking, mention it during your estimate. Best roofers Cleburne TX homeowners recommend will spot it anyway, but it helps to set expectations.
Valleys: the leakiest foot on your roof
If I had to name one square foot most likely to leak on a Texas roof, it’s the low point of a closed‑cut valley after a hail season. Water volume is highest there, debris collects, and shingles are doubly fastened along that line. Ice and water shield under that valley is cheap insurance. It self‑seals around a dozen or more fasteners per linear foot, then stays glued to the deck. For open metal valleys, high‑temp self‑adhered membrane avoids the oil‑canning heat problems that can bubble cheaper products.
A real case: a Joshua bungalow with three converging valleys. The previous roof used 15‑pound felt only, with a strip of roll roofing as a “valley liner.” After two heavy rains, the liner cracked at a nail head. The homeowner didn’t notice until the ceiling stained six weeks later. The fix cost more than the original savings. On the replacement, we ran a full 6‑foot width of peel‑and‑stick centered on the valley. The rest of the roof used synthetic underlayment. That valley hasn’t leaked through three storms that brought an inch per hour rainfall.
Metal roofs demand different chemistry
Metal roofing is growing fast around Johnson County because it handles hail better than standard shingles and carries a clean look. Under metal, you want a high‑temp rated underlayment. The panels get hot, and heat transfers directly. A standard ice and water product can soften and slip under those conditions. High‑temp synthetics combined with high‑temp peel‑and‑stick in valleys is a best practice. Also pay attention to condensation. Metal sheds water outside, but it can sweat underneath. A breathable high‑temp underlayment system can mitigate that moisture, especially over conditioned spaces with imperfect vapor control.
If a crew proposes cheap felt under a standing seam, that’s a red flag. The best roofers Joshua TX homeowners trust will specify high‑temp by name and can explain the temperature ratings. Ask for the data sheet if you’re curious.
Cost versus value, with real numbers
Homeowners often ask how much underlayment affects price. On a 30‑square roof, material cost differences are usually in the few hundred to low thousand dollar range, depending on coverage choices. A decent synthetic might add 300 to 600 dollars over basic felt for that size. Adding peel‑and‑stick at eaves and valleys might add 400 to 900 dollars more, depending on linear footage and the brand.
My Roofing
109 Westmeadow Dr Suite A, Cleburne, TX 76033
(817) 659-5160
https://www.myroofingonline.com/
My Roofing is a full-service roofing contractor headquartered in Cleburne, Texas. Kevin Jones founded My Roofing in 2012 after witnessing dishonesty in the roofing industry. My Roofing serves homeowners and property managers throughout Johnson County, Texas, including the communities of Burleson, Joshua, Keene, Alvarado, and Rendon.
My Roofing specializes in residential roof replacement, storm damage repair, and insurance claim coordination. Kevin Jones leads a team of experienced craftsmen who deliver quality workmanship on every project. My Roofing maintains a BBB A+ rating and holds a perfect 5-star Google rating from satisfied customers across Johnson County.
My Roofing operates as a "whole home partner" for Texas homeowners. Beyond roofing services, My Roofing provides bathroom remodeling, custom deck building, exterior painting, and general home renovation. This multi-service approach distinguishes My Roofing from single-service roofing contractors in the Cleburne market.
My Roofing holds membership in the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce as a Gold Sponsor. Kevin Jones actively supports local businesses and community development initiatives throughout Johnson County. My Roofing employs local craftsmen who understand North Texas weather patterns, building codes, and homeowner needs.
My Roofing processes insurance claims for storm-damaged roofs as a core specialty. Insurance agents and realtors throughout Johnson County refer their clients to My Roofing because Kevin Jones handles paperwork efficiently and communicates transparently with adjusters. My Roofing completes most roof replacements within one to two days, minimizing disruption for homeowners.
My Roofing offers free roof inspections and detailed estimates for all services. Homeowners can reach My Roofing by calling (817) 659-5160 or visiting www.myroofingonline.com. My Roofing maintains office hours Monday through Friday and responds to emergency roofing situations throughout Johnson County, Texas.
Against the cost of drywall repair, paint, insulation replacement, and possible mold mediation from a leak, that extra grand is rational, especially on roofs you plan to keep for 12 to 20 years. If you’re selling the house in six months, you might lean toward a solid mid‑grade synthetic with only targeted peel‑and‑stick. If this is your forever place in Keene, you’ll thank yourself later for upgrading the details you’ll never see.
What can go wrong even with good products
Underlayment only performs as well as the install. I’ve inspected roofs where a premium synthetic was used but overlapped uphill instead of downhill on two courses. Water followed the lap and entered a seam during wind‑driven rain. It’s a simple mistake with expensive consequences. I’ve also seen peel‑and‑stick bridged over debris. The membrane didn’t fully bond to the deck, leaving a channel that became a leak path later.
Another pitfall is improper fasteners. A few staples through synthetic may hold until a gust hits. Then the edge unzips. Cap nails or cap staples at correct spacing make a big difference. Finally, mixing incompatible products can cause chemical reactions or adhesion failures. A high‑temp membrane under metal is not optional; it’s necessary.
When you hire 5 star roofers Cleburne TX neighbors talk about, they’ll have standard operating procedures for laps, nail spacing, and transitions at walls and penetrations. Ask them to walk you through those details. The good ones enjoy the conversation.
Hail, insurance, and underlayment’s quiet role
After hail, insurers focus on shingle damage. But underlayment influences whether a home sustains interior water damage before adjusters arrive. A roof with peel‑and‑stick in the right places resists the immediate leaks that follow broken shingle seals. That often means less disruption, fewer emergency tarps, and a more straightforward claim. Adjusters who regularly work Johnson County know which neighborhoods got pounded last spring. If your roof avoided interior damage despite shredded shingles, strong underlayment and flashings likely earned that outcome.
Choosing among bids without getting lost in jargon
You don’t need to become a roofer to pick a solid proposal. You need clarity and specifics. Separate the bids that say “felt” from the ones that list a product by name, weight or mil thickness, and where it will be used. Watch for valley and eave treatments. Look for the words “self‑adhered” or “ice and water” in those areas. If a contractor writes “per code,” ask what code calls for in your city and whether they recommend exceeding it based on your roof shape or tree cover.
And yes, price matters. But a thousand dollars spread over a 15‑year shingle life is roughly 6 dollars a month, an espresso you won’t drink. The returns show up in peace of mind during those sideways spring rains that slam Keene, Cleburne, and Joshua once or twice a year.
When a premium underlayment makes sense
There are houses where I push harder for upgrades. Low slopes between 2‑in‑12 and 4‑in‑12 benefit from peel‑and‑stick across the entire area under shingles or from a combination of high‑temp underlayment and a shingle line approved for low slopes. Complex roofs with dormers, doghouse valleys, and lots of penetrations are another category. More intersections mean more risk. Older homes with plank decks, again, do better with tough synthetics and wider peel‑and‑stick zones.
For metal roofs, high‑temp is non‑negotiable. For tile, check the manufacturer’s exact underlayment requirements and service temperature rating. If your attic runs hot because of limited ventilation, the underlayment carries more of the thermal burden.
A straightforward homeowner checklist
- Confirm product names and ratings: field synthetic brand and mil thickness, self‑adhered brand and whether it is high‑temp.
- Map placements: field, eaves, valleys, penetrations, and any low‑slope sections called out on the bid.
- Ask about fasteners and laps: cap nails or cap staples, lap direction, and minimum overlaps in inches.
- Verify exposure tolerance: how many days the underlayment can sit before shingles or panels go on.
- Tie to warranty: manufacturer installation requirements and whether the plan meets those for wind and system warranties.
Keep that list simple and on hand during your walk‑through. If the contractor can’t answer in plain terms, keep looking.
Local context matters more than brand hype
Marketing can make any roll look magical. In practice, climate and roof geometry dictate most of the decision. In Johnson County we care about wind‑driven rain, hail that busts shingle seals, heat that ages adhesives, and the occasional freeze that pushes water back up the roof plane. That’s why the best roofers Keene TX homeowners lean on usually combine a sturdy synthetic across the field with peel‑and‑stick where water concentrates. On metal or tile, they move to high‑temp systems and keep transitions neat.
I’ve replaced roofs after the same storm in neighboring streets of Cleburne. One homeowner had a budget felt underlayment with no ice and water at the eaves. Another had a mid‑grade synthetic with peel‑and‑stick in valleys. Both had shingle damage. Only one had interior stains. That pattern repeats enough times to stop being a coincidence.
Final thoughts from the roofline
If you remember nothing else, remember this: underlayment is the part of your new roof you’ll never see again, but it is the piece you’ll be glad you paid attention to when it rains sideways at 2 a.m. Choose a contractor who treats it as a system, not a line item. Ask them to show mockups or photos of their valley builds, eave details, and how they protect low‑slope transitions. Insist on the right membrane in the right place, especially in valleys, at eaves, and around penetrations.
Homeowners searching for the best roofers Johnson County TX can offer, or comparing the best roofers Cleburne TX and the best roofers Joshua TX, will find that the crews with the best reputations talk openly about these details. They name the products, describe the install sequence, and stand by the work long after the check clears. That’s how 5 star roofers Cleburne TX residents recommend earn their ratings, and it’s how roofs in Keene keep water where it belongs, outside, year after year.
