Why Underlayment Replacement Is One of the Smartest Investments for Your Scottsdale Home

As one of Scottsdale’s most trusted roofing companies since 2003, we can tell you this: most homeowners don’t need a full roof replacement. What they really need is an underlayment replacement.

If you live in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, or anywhere in the northeast Valley, your roof takes a beating. Tile roofs can last 50+ years, but the underlayment beneath those tiles usually lasts only 15–25 years, especially in our extreme desert climate.

Below, I’ll break down the benefits, cost savings, and key signs that your home is ready for underlayment replacement—plus when a full roof replacement might actually be the better option. And I’ll also highlight why many Scottsdale homeowners trust specialists like Behmer Roofing & Sheet Metal for this service.

What Is Underlayment and Why Does It Matter?

On most Scottsdale homes, especially those with clay or concrete tile, the tile is not the waterproofing. The real protection comes from the underlayment underneath.

Underlayment is what:

• Creates a watertight barrier
• Protects your home during monsoon storms
• Shields the roof deck from moisture and UV exposure
• Acts as your last line of defense when tiles crack, shift, or break
  

Even the highest-quality tile won’t protect your home if the underlayment has deteriorated.

Why Scottsdale Homes Commonly Need Underlayment Replacement

Our desert climate destroys ordinary underlayment faster than homeowners expect. The main culprits are:

1. UV Degradation

Tile roofs expand and contract, exposing the underlayment to sun over time.

2. Monsoon Wind & Rain

Wind-driven rain can push moisture under lifted or slipped tiles.

3. Tile Movement

Extreme temperature swings cause tiles to shift—often enough to damage or expose the underlayment.

4. Pest Intrusion

Birds and rodents tear into underlayment, creating weak spots.

This is why professional Scottsdale roofing companies, like Behmer Roofing & Sheet Metal, known locally for their tile reset and underlayment replacement expertise, inspect underlayment more carefully than just about anything else.

Underlayment Replacement vs. Full Roof Replacement

Most tile roofs in Scottsdale don’t need a brand-new roof. They simply need the waterproofing layer refreshed.

Underlayment Replacement (Tile Reset)

Tiles are removed, new high-performance underlayment is installed, and your original tiles are reset.

Pros

• Costs significantly less than a full roof replacement
• Retains the look of your existing tile roof
• Extends your roof’s life 20–30 years
• Fast and minimally disruptive

Cons

• Only works if your tile is still in good condition

Full Roof Replacement

This involves replacing everything: tile, underlayment, and sometimes decking.

Pros

• Best option when tile is damaged or discontinued
• Lets you upgrade roof materials
• Offers full system warranties

Cons

• 2–3x the cost of underlayment replacement
• Requires more time and labor

Companies like Behmer Roofing & Sheet Metal will always tell you which option makes the most sense—they’re known in Scottsdale for honesty and craftsmanship, especially on high-end tile roofs.

Cost Savings of Underlayment Replacement in Scottsdale

Here’s the comparison most homeowners want to know. Replacing just the underlayment can save Scottsdale homeowners 36–60% versus a complete roof replacement. Since tile lasts decades, reusing it instead of buying brand-new tile is one of the biggest money savers.

If you want an exact savings estimate, or if you’re just kicking the tires on some roof work, Behmer’s accurate, and free, Roofing Cost Calculator can get you started.

Signs Your Roof Needs Underlayment Replacement

Here’s what we look for during an inspection and what you can take into consideration when determining if it’s time for an underlayment replacement estimate:

1. Home is 18–25+ years old

This is the biggest indicator. The older the roof the more likely it is experiencing one, or a number of problems that come with years or use and abuse. If your roof is 18-25+ years old, it is likely time to have an inspection. Also pay extra attention to the rest of this list.

2. Slipped or broken roof tiles

Tile movement exposes the underlayment to sun and moisture. This constant battle with the elements begins to cause roof tiles to slip, break, move, and displace. When tiles begin to give into the elements further roof damage is possible. Catching this early can save on costly repairs later down the road.

3. Visible underlayment that looks dried, torn, or brittle

Any visible degradation means more is happening where you can’t see. If you can see signs of degradation from the ground looking up it’s time for an inspection. Next, it’s time to inspect the roof from the top, which we don’t recommend unless you’re a roofing professional.

4. Stains or minor ceiling leaks

If the interior shows damage, the underlayment has already failed. Roof inspections can prevent the likelihood of indoor issues too. If you see visible issues or leak inside your home, it is time to call Behmer Roofing and Sheet Metal.

5. Heavy monsoon seasons

Intense rain can overwhelm old underlayment. Scottsdale is prone to heavy, roof battering monsoon seasons that can damage, or weaken, a tile roof in different ways. If your area, like much of Phoenix, has experienced a particularly harsh monsoon season, it’s time for a roof inspection.

6. Your neighbors are replacing theirs

It’s no mystery why your neighbor is replacing their roof. Scottsdale subdivisions often age at the same pace because homes are made of the same materials and often built at the same time. Keep an eye on your neighbors house.

When Underlayment Replacement Might Not Be Necessary

You might not need a full underlayment replacement if:

• Your roof is under 15 years old
• Tile is in excellent condition with minimal shifting
• Underlayment is still flexible and well-sealed
• No moisture or leak signs are present

A good roofer will tell you honestly. Behmer Roofing & Sheet Metal, for example, is known for inspecting roofs thoroughly and giving clear, photo-backed explanations of whether you need the work now or can wait a few more years.

Benefits of Replacing Underlayment Before It Fails

Homeowners often wait for a leak but that’s the most expensive time to act. Replacing underlayment proactively:

1. Prevents Interior Water Damage

A small tear in underlayment can lead to big repairs inside your home.

2. Protects You During Monsoon Season

Old underlayment + sideways rain = leaks every time.

3. Adds 20–30 Years of Roof Life

New synthetic underlayment is far superior to old felt systems.

4. Improves Home Value

Buyers love to see “underlayment replaced” in a Scottsdale listing.

5. Helps Avoid Emergency Repairs

Scheduled replacement beats surprise roof damage during a storm.

Why Many Scottsdale Homeowners Choose Behmer Roofing & Sheet Metal

Behmer Roofing & Sheet Metal has become one of the go-to roofing companies for tile roof underlayment replacement in Scottsdale for a few reasons:

• They specialize in tile roof systems, including premium clay and concrete tile
• They’re known for clean, organized job sites
• They provide detailed inspections with photo evidence
• They use upgraded synthetic underlayments for longer life
• They have decades of experience working on Scottsdale homes and HOAs

If you want the job done right—and want it to last another 20–30+ years—working with a specialist like Behmer is one of the smartest moves you can make.

Final Thoughts: Underlayment Replacement Is the Secret to a Longer-Lasting Scottsdale Roof

If your Scottsdale home is 18–25+ years old and has a tile roof, underlayment replacement is one of the best investments you can make to protect your property.

You get:

• Lower cost vs. full replacement
• Extended roof lifespan
• Better storm protection
• Increased home value
• Peace of mind heading into monsoon season
  

And if you're researching companies, Behmer Roofing & Sheet Metal is a trusted local expert many Scottsdale homeowners rely on for tile roof underlayment work done right.

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