Understanding Roofing Underlays and Why ProArmor® Takes the Lead

You’ve probably heard about covering, sheathing, flashing, and other elements that make up a roof system a dozen times before. But what both contractors and consumers often fail to pay heed to is underlayment. Well, they shouldn’t. Just because it is an extra part of that complex structure does not make it of no significance. Underlayment protects your deck from water penetration, thereby preventing attic leaks and mold growth. Isn’t that important? We think it really is.

Simply put, underlayment is an added line of defense against the elements. To better understand what it serves as, think of your roof system as a sandwich, in which the first slice of bread is its deck while the second one stands for shingles. Underlayment is installed right in between, providing additional protection against leakage and structural damages.

Although applying it onto the deck is not a must, roof underlayment is necessary for low-slope building coverings. The thing is that the risk of leaks with these roofs is higher than with steep-slope ones because rainwater drains too slowly. However, it’s not uncommon to install underlayment even on steep slopes for better insulation.

Which type of underlayment protects your property most effectively?

With all the advancements in modern roofing technologies, 3 types of underlayment are considered most popular these days. Here’s a closer look at each of them:

Felt underlayment. It is a traditional and least expensive type known as #15 or #30 (depending on the thickness option). As its name implies, it is made from asphalt-saturated felt that may be reinforced with fiberglass. What you must know is that this underlayment does provide some water resistance, yet it’s not waterproof.
Rubberized asphalt membrane. Made from rubber-like materials, this type is one of the best in terms of sealing properties and the easiness of roof underlayment installation. It is flexible, non-skid, and designed to stand up to UV rays. Its heat resistance qualities are second-to-none, too.
Synthetic underlayment. If you’re in the market for a waterproof barrier that is light, yet as durable as brick, you now know what to go for. The membranes of this type rely on polypropylene or polyethylene to ensure effective insulation, and they are the longest-lasting solutions. Of all them, ProArmor® synthetic underlayment is definitely one that stands out.

What’s so special about Owens Corning ProArmor® underlayment?

As a company that has been found in Fortune 500 every year since the list has started running, Owens Corning is adept at developing revolutionary products. It’s one of the few globally recognized roof underlayment manufacturers, and it has recently come up with another game-changer in its range. Designed to be used underneath asphalt shingles, Owens Corning ProArmor® deservedly outperforms traditional roof barriers. They call it ‘total protection’, and for a good reason.

ProArmor® is a top-performance synthetic option that encompasses advanced sealing, defensive, and breathable properties. Neither #15 felt nor conventional rubberized asphalt membranes can hold a candle to this barrier. It offers improved moisture and wear-and-tear resistance while complementing the integrity of the whole roof system.

Owens Corning ProArmor® synthetic roof underlayment also boasts outstanding safety features. Backed by Fusion Back Coating Technology™, it creates stable walking conditions and reduces the risk of falls. Although it is available in easy-to-apply rolls, its anti-slip surface makes it even safer for you to install this underlayment.

So, if you’re still settling for #15 felt and wondering why those leaks occur, consider having it replaced with ProArmor®. Owens Corning offers a 10-year limited warranty for this underlayment, and Home Run Improvement will be happy to install it for you. Just give us a call and enjoy the remarkable transformation of your roof system!

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Case Study: Youngblood Deck

January 14, 2026

The Challenge The homeowners wanted to remove an aging deck and replace it with a larger, upgraded outdoor living space. Their vision included a custom deck design with a dedicated wall for mounting a TV, as well as a brand-new patio installed in front of the deck to create a functional entertaining area. They needed a contractor who could manage both elements clearly, communicate well, and deliver high-end results without surprises. The Solution Home Run Improvement began with an on-site consultation led by Michael, who worked closely with the homeowners to understand their goals and explore design options. To ensure the patio was executed at the highest level, Henry, a trusted patio partner, joined the planning process to walk through materials, layout, and construction details. The team proposed creative enhancements, provided a transparent and detailed estimate, and outlined a clear project timeline from the start. As additional features were added during construction, all cost changes were communicated immediately, keeping expectations aligned at every step. Premium materials were selected to ensure long-term performance and visual impact, including TimberTech decking and Unilock stone for the patio. The Process Daily on-time arrival and consistent progress Ongoing check-ins to confirm design details and homeowner satisfaction Clear communication on timeline and budget adjustments Skilled craftsmanship across decking, structural work, and hardscaping The project stayed on schedule, and the final cost matched the agreed-upon estimate exactly. The Results The completed deck and patio exceeded expectations. The expanded deck created a perfect space for entertaining, complete with a TV-ready wall, while the new patio added flow to the outdoor area. The homeowners were left with a high-quality outdoor living space built to last. Client Outcome The homeowners praised Home Run Improvement for exceptional professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail, noting the quality of materials, the consistency of communication, and the craftsmanship throughout the project. They highly recommend Home Run Improvement and were thrilled with the final result.