Best Tar Paper for Roofing – New England Metal Roof

Tar paper, also known as roofing felt, plays a crucial role as an underlayment beneath shingles or other roofing materials. It provides a secondary layer of protection against moisture, helps seal the roof deck, and offers a slip-resistant surface during installation. With a range of options—from traditional 15- to 40-pound asphalt felt to modern self-adhesive underlayments—choosing the best tar paper depends on climate, roof type, and installation method. This guide covers common types, selection criteria, installation tips, and practical recommendations to help homeowners and contractors maximize roof durability and performance.

What Tar Paper Is And Why It Matters

Tar paper or roofing felt is a heavy, waterproof layer laid directly over the roof deck before the final roofing material is installed. Traditional asphalt-saturated felt comes in varying weights, typically 15, 30, and 40 pounds per 100 square feet, with higher weights offering greater tear resistance and durability. Modern self-adhesive underlayments combine an asphalt-saturated core with an adhesive backing, enabling easier installation and superior seal against moisture. The tar paper serves several functions: it acts as a secondary moisture barrier, provides a weathering layer during construction, and helps regulate deck ventilation. In hot climates or high-wind regions, the right tar paper quality can reduce the risk of leaks and wind-driven moisture intrusion. Emphasizing the moisture resistance, weather resistance, and compatibility with roofing materials ensures a long-lasting roof system.

Types Of Tar Paper And Underlayment Options

Understanding the main categories helps match products to roofing goals:

Traditional asphalt felt (15-40 lb): A time-tested option installed with nails and seam adhesive. Heavier weights (30 lb and 40 lb) offer improved puncture resistance and longer service life under shingles.
4- or 6-mil synthetic underlayment: Lightweight, tear-resistant materials that can outperform traditional felt in some climates, though not technically tar paper; included here for context about common alternatives.
Self-adhesive roofing underlayment: Combines asphalt saturation with an self-adhesive backing, creating a fiberglass or organic mat that bonds to the deck. This option improves waterproofing, reduces the need for mechanical fastening, and is especially valuable under metal roofs or areas with heavy rainfall.
Ice and water shield: A specialized self-adhesive underlayment designed for critical leak-prone zones like eaves and roof-to-wall interfaces. Not a universal replacement for tar paper, but an essential upgrade in certain climates.

For traditional tar paper needs, 30-pound and 40-pound felt remain common choices for asphalt shingle installations, while 15-pound felt is more economical but less durable. Self-adhesive options are increasingly popular for their ease of installation and superior moisture resistance, particularly in exposed or difficult-to-seal locations. When selecting, consider climate, roof pitch, insulation, and local building codes to determine the most suitable underlayment type.

How To Choose The Best Tar Paper For Your Roof

Selecting the right tar paper involves balancing cost, durability, and performance for your specific project. Key considerations:

Climate and weather patterns: Regions with heavy rainfall, snowfall, or high wind rates benefit from heavier-weight felt or self-adhesive underlayments that resist uplift and moisture.
Roof pitch and design: Steeper pitches and complex rooflines may demand more tear resistance and robust sealing at hips, ridges, and valleys.
Roof material compatibility: Asphalt shingles pair well with traditional felt, while metal roofs often require a high-quality self-adhesive underlayment for reliable seals at seams.
Code and warranty considerations: Local codes may specify minimum underlayment requirements; some manufacturers’ warranties require specific underlayment types or installation methods.
Ease of installation : Self-adhesive underlayments reduce installation time and improve seal integrity, particularly for DIY projects or roofs with tight eave spaces.

In practice, many homeowners choose 30- to 40-pound traditional tar paper for asphalt shingles in temperate climates, supplemented with ice-and-water shield in critical zones. For challenging weather, self-adhesive or enhanced underlayment materials offer superior protection without dramatically increasing labor costs.

Don’t Overpay for Roofing Services – Call 877-801-4315 Now to Compare Local Quotes!

Key Features To Look For

Quality tar paper should exhibit certain performance attributes:

Moisture resistance: The primary purpose of tar paper is to keep moisture from penetrating the roof deck. Look for felt with robust asphalt saturation and a uniform surface.
Tear and puncture resistance: Higher weight felt (30 lb, 40 lb) provides better durability under nails and foot traffic during installation.
Wind uplift resistance: Heavier felt or self-adhesive underlayments stay in place during high winds, reducing the risk of leaks at seams.
Adhesive performance (for self-adhesive): Adhesive must form a durable bond with the deck and remain effective in cold or hot temperatures without losing tack.
Compatibility with roofing material: Ensure the underlayment is rated for use beneath your chosen shingles or metal panels, per manufacturer guidelines.

Safety standards, warranty terms, and installation instructions vary by product; consulting the manufacturer’s data sheets helps ensure proper selection and application.

Installation Tips For Tar Paper Underlayment

Correct installation optimizes performance and longevity. Practical tips:

Deck preparation: Ensure the roof deck is clean, dry, and free of protrusions. Dry deck conditions improve adhesion for self-adhesive underlayments.
Overlap and seams: Traditional felt requires proper shingle-side overlaps (typically 2 inches) and weather exposure margins. Self-adhesive underlayment should be staggered to avoid identical joints.
Nail placement: If using traditional felt, drive nails in the pre-punched nail lines and seal nail heads with compatible asphalt cement or sealant to prevent water intrusion.
Wind considerations: In high-wind regions, apply adhesive tabs or fasten every 6 inches along the edges as recommended by the manufacturer to resist uplift.
Critical zones: Apply ice and water shield along eaves, valleys, and roof penetrations to provide extra protection where leaks are most likely.

Following the manufacturer’s installation instructions is essential for achieving the expected performance and maintaining warranty coverage.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Avoid these missteps to maximize tar paper effectiveness:

Skimping on underlayment: Selecting the cheapest option can compromise moisture protection and durability, especially on larger or more exposed roofs.
Incorrect overlap: Too little overlap creates avenues for water intrusion; excessive overlap wastes material and labor time.
Ignoring climate-specific needs: Failing to choose appropriate underlayment for cold or hot conditions can lead to adhesive failure or reduced performance.
Inadequate fasteners for non-self-adhesive options: Using inappropriate nails can cause tearing or lifting at seams during wind events.

Awareness of these pitfalls helps ensure a robust roof assembly that protects against moisture and weather exposure.

Durability, Maintenance, And Longevity Considerations

Tar paper itself is a protective layer that does not yield the same lifespan as shingles or metal roofing. Its effectiveness depends on proper installation and compatible materials. Regular roof inspections—especially after heavy storms—help identify loose seams, punctures, or signs of moisture intrusion beneath the underlayment. In areas with persistent moisture or wildfire risk, pairing tar paper with additional protective measures, such as ice and water shield at eaves and valleys, can extend roof life and reduce maintenance needs. When evaluating long-term cost, consider both the initial underlayment cost and potential savings from fewer leaks and less deck damage over time.