In the Sunshine State, your roof takes a beating. Blazing heat, heavy rains, and hurricane-force winds are all part of life here. One of the most important (but often overlooked) elements of your roof’s defense system is the underlayment. Tucked beneath the surface, this protective layer plays a key role in your roof’s longevity—and it’s required by Florida law. If you’re planning roof work in areas like Ocala or Lady Lake, understanding underlayment rules isn’t just smart—it’s necessary.
What Makes Underlayment So Important in Florida?
Florida homes face more moisture and wind pressure than most parts of the country. Roofing underlayment acts as a backup barrier if the outer layer fails. It guards against water intrusion from wind-driven rain, protects the decking during installation, and supports better overall performance during Florida’s storm season.
Underlayment also helps regulate heat, making your home more energy-efficient and reducing the risk of mold or wood rot caused by trapped moisture.
What Kind of Underlayment is Right for You?
Not all underlayment materials are created equal. Florida’s climate demands products that can withstand high humidity and strong UV rays. Here are the most common options:
Asphalt-Saturated Felt
Often called felt paper, this traditional option is affordable and effective. It’s made from organic or fiberglass mat saturated with asphalt. While not as durable as modern choices, it’s still used in budget-conscious roofing projects.
Synthetic Underlayment
This high-performance option is engineered to resist moisture, tear damage, and UV exposure. Made from woven or spun polymers, it’s lightweight yet strong—ideal for Florida’s demanding conditions.
Peel-and-Stick Membranes
These self-adhering layers bond directly to the roof deck. Because of their watertight seal and resilience under high-wind conditions, they’re popular in hurricane-prone zones like Ocala and Lady Lake.
Florida Building Code: What It Says About Underlayment
The Florida Building Code is one of the toughest in the U.S., and roofing projects must meet specific underlayment guidelines. Here’s what homeowners and contractors need to keep in mind:
- Roof Slope Regulations: Roofs with a slope between 2:12 and 4:12 must have two layers of underlayment. Steeper roofs (above 4:12) typically require just one, depending on material and fastening methods.
- Fastening and Attachment: Underlayment must be nailed or stapled using corrosion-resistant fasteners, placed according to specific spacing and overlap rules.
- Wind Resistance Ratings: All underlayment used in Florida must meet ASTM standards and show performance under uplift pressure. Some areas also require compliance with Miami-Dade or TAS test standards.
- High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ): While Ocala isn’t in an HVHZ, the same high standards are still beneficial. Self-adhered membranes and double-layer systems can offer added protection for peace of mind.
Underlayment Needs Vary by Roofing Type
The top layer of your roof influences what goes underneath. Here’s a breakdown:
- Asphalt Shingles: Paired with felt or synthetic underlayment. Synthetic offers better heat and moisture resistance.
- Metal Roofs: These expand and contract, so underlayment must be heat-resistant. Synthetic or peel-and-stick types are usually best.
- Tile Roofs: Heavier and more prone to letting in water around edges, tile roofs benefit from multi-layer underlayment systems or waterproof membranes.
Inspections Are Part of the Process
Before any roofing job is complete, the underlayment must pass a building inspection. Inspectors look at fastener spacing, overlap consistency, edge sealing, and whether the materials used meet Florida’s requirements. Skipping or failing this step means delays and potentially redoing parts of your project.
Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make
Florida roofing projects can go south fast if underlayment is done poorly. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Using the wrong type of underlayment for your roof pitch or material
- Cutting corners on overlap or skipping sealing areas around edges
- Failing to fasten underlayment according to code
- Ignoring the effects of wind uplift in coastal or open areas
Getting the underlayment right from the beginning helps avoid bigger issues like leaks, rot, or structural damage.
Will Your Roof Pass Insurance and Warranty Claims?
Insurance companies in Florida are paying close attention to how roofs are built. If your underlayment isn’t code-compliant, claims for damage may be denied. Manufacturers also require proper installation for their warranties to remain valid. Having a properly installed underlayment could be the key to getting repairs covered after a storm.
Why It Pays to Work with Rooftek
We know the codes. We know the weather. And we know the pressure Florida homeowners face when it comes to roofing. Rooftek is based in Ocala and has helped countless residents in nearby towns like Lady Lake upgrade their roofs with confidence.
Our approach begins with a full roof inspection. If repairs are needed, we handle them with precision. If your roof needs to be replaced, we’ll explain your best options without pushing unnecessary upgrades. We use high-performance materials, install them with care, and follow Florida’s strict building codes every step of the way.
Let’s Build Something That Lasts
Great roofing starts with a solid foundation. Underlayment might be hidden beneath the surface, but its importance can’t be overstated. From blocking moisture to holding up against storm winds, this layer plays a major role in keeping your home secure.
At Rooftek, we install roofs that are built to last—starting with the underlayment. We’re based at 217 SE 1st Ave Suite 200, Ocala, FL 34471 and serve homes across the region. Our number is (352) 364-9330, and we’re here to help when you need roofing solutions that meet Florida’s high standards.
Searching for a roofing contractor near you? We’re the team that homeowners in Lady Lake and Ocala trust when they want durability, transparency, and results they can count on. Let’s protect what matters most—starting from the bottom up.
Rooftek Orlando
2201 Lucien Way #400, Maitland, FL 32751
(352) 364 – 9330