When hailstones batter rooftops, they don’t just dent shingles—they can compromise an entire roofing system. One of the most overlooked components in hail damage repairs is the roofing underlayment, the hidden layer that shields your home from leaks and moisture. Understanding how synthetic and felt underlayments differ can help homeowners make better decisions when assessing storm damage, filing insurance claims, and choosing quality repairs that last.
This guide breaks down how to identify hail damage, what immediate steps to take after a storm, and how to confidently navigate insurance and repair decisions—focusing specifically on choosing the right underlayment for your roofing restoration.
Choosing the Right Roofing Underlayment After Hail
After a hailstorm, the visible dents, granule loss, and cracked shingles are often the first signs of trouble. But beneath the surface, hail can also compromise the integrity of your underlayment—especially if the roofing system is older or the impact was severe. Homeowners should start by visually inspecting their roof from the ground or through photographs, looking for displaced shingles, exposed wood sheathing, or curling edges that could indicate hidden moisture intrusion. If safe, a roofing contractor can take detailed photos or use drones to capture close-up images for documentation and insurance purposes.
Once hail damage is confirmed, the next step involves contacting your insurance company and arranging for an inspection by an adjuster. During this process, the underlayment plays a critical role in determining whether a full roof replacement is necessary. Adjusters typically check for soft spots and water penetration under shingles, as these signs indicate that the underlayment has lost its protective function. A well-documented inspection report—with diagrams and photos—greatly improves your chances of approval for a complete replacement rather than partial repairs.
When planning repairs, the choice between synthetic and felt underlayment should align with climate, roof pitch, and long-term durability goals. In areas prone to hail, a more resilient underlayment may prevent secondary damage if another storm hits before shingles are replaced. Homeowners should also consider ventilation, local building codes, and warranty compatibility, as these can influence both cost and repair timelines. On average, completing the roof replacement after approval can take two to four weeks depending on weather and contractor availability.
Comparing Synthetic and Felt Options for Repairs
Felt underlayment, also known as tar paper, has long been the traditional option in roofing systems. Made from organic or fiberglass mats saturated with asphalt, it offers decent protection at a relatively low cost. However, its durability can decline after exposure to moisture or UV light, which is a key factor following hail damage. If shingles are dislodged, felt underlayment can absorb water and wrinkle, potentially causing uneven shingle alignment during repairs. Many adjusters view compromised felt as a leading reason to approve a full tear-off rather than patchwork repairs.
On the other hand, synthetic underlayment—made from polyethylene or polypropylene—is more resistant to tearing and moisture, making it a preferred choice for modern reroofing projects. It’s lighter, easier to install, and can remain exposed longer without damage while waiting for shingle replacement. During insurance evaluations, synthetic materials may be recommended as an upgrade, especially for homes in regions frequently hit by hail and strong wind. While it may cost slightly more upfront, its longevity and resistance to mold or deterioration often provide better long-term protection.
In most hail damage repairs, roofers will recommend replacing any damaged portion of the underlayment as part of a full system rebuild. If upgrading from felt to synthetic, homeowners should confirm that their insurance claim includes both material type and labor adjustments. It’s also wise to request a detailed roofing estimate that outlines manufacturer specifications, product warranties, and the installation timeline. By understanding how both materials perform under extreme weather, you can confidently choose an underlayment that not only restores your roof but also strengthens it against future storms.
A hailstorm can leave behind more damage than meets the eye, making the right underlayment choice essential to a roof’s long-term performance. Whether you lean toward the affordability of traditional felt or the advanced protection of synthetic materials, your decision should rest on durability, code compliance, and your region’s climate conditions.
By documenting damage properly, communicating clearly with your insurer, and partnering with a qualified roofing contractor, you can streamline the claim process and ensure a strong, well-sealed repair. In the end, understanding the role of your roofing underlayment doesn’t just help you recover from hail damage—it helps you build a more resilient home for years to come.