When planning a roof replacement or installing a new roof in West Palm Beach, Florida, one crucial question often overlooked until it’s too late is: What is the best underlayment for a new roof? This unsung hero lies beneath your shingles or tiles, acting as the final line of defense against moisture, heat, and even wind-driven rain. In the tropical climate of Palm Beach County, where the sun blazes and hurricane season is no joke, choosing the right roofing underlayment is not just a preference—it’s a necessity.

Why Roofing Underlayment Matters in South Florida
The underlayment is the waterproof or water-resistant barrier installed directly onto the roof deck before shingles, tiles, or metal roofing are laid. In South Florida, where daily sun exposure, heavy rainfall, and high humidity are the norm, underlayment must offer:
- Heat resistance
- Moisture protection
- Wind uplift resilience
- Compatibility with local roofing systems, like clay tile and metal roofs
Star Roofing highlights that failing to select the appropriate roofing underlayment can lead to premature roof failure, mold growth, and interior water damage—especially during hurricane season in West Palm Beach.
Types of Roofing Underlayment: Pros and Cons
1. Felt (Asphalt-Saturated) Underlayment
Also known as tar paper, this traditional choice has been used for decades.
Pros:
- Cost-effective
- Readily available
- Compatible with many roofing materials
Cons:
- Not as durable under Florida’s heat
- Tends to wrinkle or degrade over time
- Offers limited waterproofing in extreme weather
Use Case in West Palm Beach: Better suited for budget-conscious projects or homes not directly exposed to ocean winds or salt air.
2. Synthetic Underlayment
Made from polypropylene or polyethylene, synthetic underlayment is fast becoming the go-to in high-performance roofing systems.
Pros:
- Lightweight yet tear-resistant
- Superior UV and heat resistance
- Safer walkability for roofers
- Excellent moisture and mold resistance
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than felt
- Quality can vary between manufacturers
Best For: West Palm Beach homes, especially those with asphalt shingles or metal roofing systems. It offers superior protection against the moisture-heavy tropical climate and sudden downpours common in Florida’s hurricane belt.
3. Peel-and-Stick (Self-Adhering) Underlayment
These underlayments come with adhesive backing and form a tight seal around nail penetrations—ideal for wind-driven rain.
Pros:
- Fully waterproof
- Adds an additional weatherproof layer
- Adheres tightly to the roof deck
Cons:
- More costly
- Requires careful installation
- Not suitable for all roofing systems (e.g., some clay tile systems)
Local Advantage: Especially valuable in West Palm Beach neighborhoods like El Cid, Flamingo Park, and Southend, where many homes feature steep-slope roofs or face direct exposure to Atlantic storms.
What Is the Best Underlayment for a New Roof in West Palm Beach?
Here’s the short answer: synthetic underlayment with a self-adhering membrane in vulnerable areas (e.g., eaves, valleys, and roof penetrations).
Why This Combo Works:
- Synthetic underlayment performs well under the intense UV radiation and high humidity typical in Palm Beach County.
- Peel-and-stick membranes provide watertight seals where leaks are most likely during wind-driven rain or hurricanes.
Roofing Code Compliance:
Florida has some of the strictest roofing codes in the nation—especially in Wind-Borne Debris Regions like West Palm Beach. A dual-layer system using synthetic underlayment and self-adhering membrane often meets or exceeds these codes.
Roof Type and Underlayment: A Localized Look
Depending on your roofing material, underlayment needs vary:
For Asphalt Shingles
- Recommended: Synthetic underlayment with high-temperature resistance
- Why: Shingles absorb heat, and poor-quality underlayment can degrade over time
For Tile Roofs (Common in Coastal Homes)
- Recommended: Peel-and-stick underlayment plus a slip sheet
- Why: Tiles are heavy and can cause friction; slip sheets help prevent wear
For Metal Roofing
- Recommended: High-temp synthetic underlayment
- Why: Metal transfers heat quickly, and this combo prevents degradation
Tip: Homes in Lake Worth, Palm Beach Gardens, and Westgate should consider peel-and-stick options for added hurricane protection.
Local Roofing Considerations in West Palm Beach, FL
Your underlayment choice should align with:
- South Florida Building Code (SFBC)
- Insurance requirements (e.g., Citizens Property Insurance often asks about peel-and-stick coverage)
- Energy efficiency needs—reflective materials can reduce attic temperatures by up to 30°F
Working with a licensed roofing contractor in West Palm Beach ensures compliance with local ordinances and code.
Cost of Roofing Underlayment in Palm Beach County
Expect the following price ranges (as of 2025):
- Felt Underlayment: $0.20–$0.50 per sq. ft.
- Synthetic Underlayment: $0.40–$0.90 per sq. ft.
- Peel-and-Stick Membranes: $0.90–$1.50 per sq. ft.
Installation labor, roof pitch, and accessibility in areas like Downtown West Palm Beach or The Acreage can impact final pricing.
Final Verdict: Choose Smart, Roof Long
When asking “What is the best underlayment for a new roof?” in West Palm Beach, Florida, the best answer is a synthetic base layer paired with strategic peel-and-stick protection. This combo gives you a high-performance, code-compliant roof that stands up to everything from torrential rain to relentless sun—and looks great doing it.
💬 Pro Tip: Always get multiple quotes from local roofing experts familiar with the unique microclimates and building codes in Palm Beach County.
Call to Action
🏠 Planning a roof replacement in West Palm Beach? Don’t settle for generic advice. Contact a certified roofing contractor today to evaluate your options for premium underlayment that protects your home from the top down—literally.