Roofing Underlayment & Valley Protection
Roofing Underlayment & Valley Protection
A roof is only as strong as what’s underneath it. While shingles or metal panels are the most visible part of your roof, underlayment and valley protection play a critical role in preventing leaks and extending the life of your roofing system.
At Zuniga Metal Roofing, we install synthetic underlayment on all roofs—both metal roofing and shingle roofing—because it offers superior protection compared to traditional felt paper. We also use ice and water shield in valleys and other critical areas for added leak protection.
Why We Use Synthetic Underlayment Instead of Felt
Traditional felt underlayment was once the industry standard, but modern roofing systems demand better performance. That’s why Zuniga Metal Roofing uses synthetic underlayment on every project.
Benefits of Synthetic Underlayment
Synthetic underlayment offers several advantages over felt:
Higher tear resistance during installation
Better water resistance and moisture protection
Improved durability in extreme Texas heat and wind
Lighter weight and more consistent coverage
Does not absorb water or wrinkle like felt
Because of these benefits, synthetic underlayment provides a stronger secondary barrier beneath both metal roofs and shingle roofs.
Synthetic Underlayment for Metal Roofing Systems
Whether you choose R-Panel, PBR Panel, or Standing Seam metal roofing, Zuniga Metal Roofing installs synthetic underlayment across the entire roof deck.
Metal roofing expands and contracts with temperature changes, and synthetic underlayment is designed to handle this movement without tearing or degrading. It also adds an extra layer of protection in the unlikely event water makes it past the metal panels.
Ice & Water Shield in Metal Roof Valleys
Valleys are one of the most vulnerable areas of any roof because they collect and channel large amounts of water. For all metal roofing systems, we go a step further.
Our Metal Roofing Valley Protection Standard
Synthetic underlayment installed over the full roof deck
Ice and water shield installed in all valleys for added protection
Ice and water shield is a self-adhering membrane that seals around fasteners and provides superior resistance to wind-driven rain. This combination offers maximum protection where leaks are most likely to occur.
Underlayment & Valley Options for Shingle Roofs
For asphalt shingle roofing, homeowners have multiple options when it comes to valley protection.
Standard Shingle Roof Protection
Synthetic underlayment installed over the roof deck
Valleys finished with a rolled metal valley or upgraded protection
Rolled Metal Valley (Cost-Effective Option)
A rolled metal valley:
Provides reliable water flow
Is a durable and budget-friendly option
Is commonly used in standard shingle installations
Ice & Water Shield Valley Upgrade
Some homeowners choose to upgrade to ice and water shield in the valleys instead of a rolled metal valley for enhanced leak protection. This option offers:
A fully sealed valley membrane
Added protection against wind-driven rain
Extra peace of mind in high-water-flow areas
Both options perform well when installed correctly, and we explain the pros and cons of each so homeowners can make an informed decision.
Ice & Water Shield at Eaves (City Code Requirements)
In certain city limits and municipalities, building codes may require ice and water shield to be installed along the eaves of the roof in addition to valleys.
Our Process
Zuniga Metal Roofing verifies all local city and municipal codes for each project
We determine where ice and water shield is required
We clearly explain code requirements and available options to the homeowner
This ensures every roof we install meets or exceeds local code while giving customers a clear understanding of why each component is used.
Our Standard for Ultimate Roof Protection
For metal roofing systems (R-Panel, PBR, or Standing Seam):
Synthetic underlayment across the entire roof
Ice and water shield installed in all valleys
Additional ice and water shield at eaves when required by city code
For shingle roofing systems:
Synthetic underlayment across the roof
Choice of rolled metal valleys or ice and water shield valleys
Code-required ice and water shield installed when applicable
Helping You Choose the Best Option for Your Home
Every home is different. Roof design, location, city codes, and budget all play a role in choosing the right underlayment and valley protection.
At Zuniga Metal Roofing, we:
Verify local code requirements
Explain all underlayment and valley options
Help homeowners choose the best solution for long-term protection
Ready to get started?
Contact our expert team today