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How much roof underlayment do I need?

Uses the same house size and pitch as the shingle calculator. Get rolls of synthetic underlayment or felt.

Synthetic (10 square rolls)

3 rolls

Or #15 felt (4 square rolls)6 rolls
Or #30 felt (2 square rolls)11 rolls
Roof area with waste2,046 sq ft

Estimated material cost

Synthetic

3 x $$90.00 per roll

$270

Estimated total$270

Typical store prices before tax and delivery. Change any price to match your store.

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How to measure

Use the same measurements as the shingle calculator: house length, width, overhang, and roof pitch.

Tips from the field

  • Use ice and water shield along eaves and in valleys, especially on low-slope roofs.
  • Overlap rows the amount printed on the underlayment, usually 4 to 6 inches.

What you'll need

Synthetic underlaymentIce and water shieldCap nailsDrip edge

Common questions

Is synthetic underlayment better than felt?

Synthetic is lighter, stronger, and lasts longer if exposed before shingling. Felt is cheaper.

Where does ice and water shield go?

Along the eaves, in valleys, and around chimneys, skylights, and other roof penetrations.

How much does underlayment overlap?

Follow the marks printed on the roll, usually 4 to 6 inches on the sides and ends.

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