What to Know About AeroTech15™ and the Future of Breathable Underlayments
The evolution of roofing materials is driven by three priorities: performance, safety, and energy efficiency—and breathable underlayments are a direct result of these goals converging. Among them, AeroTech15™ stands out as one of the most forward-looking options available today. For builders, roofers, and specifiers—especially in humid regions like Florida, Georgia, and the Gulf states—breathable synthetic underlayments are no longer a luxury. They’re a smart, preventive measure to protect structures from the inside out.
At its core, a breathable underlayment is designed to allow vapor to escape from beneath the roof deck while still providing full waterproof protection against external moisture. This dual functionality helps prevent condensation, mold growth, and material degradation—major threats in both humid climates and cold-weather regions with frequent freeze-thaw cycles.
AeroTech15™ is Continental Materials’ answer to this growing need. It’s a mechanically-fastened synthetic underlayment that combines a breathable membrane with the rugged durability required for real-world installation. While some products sacrifice breathability for strength, AeroTech15™ delivers both. It’s UV-resistant, walkable, and meets ASTM D4869 and ASTM D226 standards—offering contractors peace of mind during and after installation.
Who Should Use a Breathable Underlayment Like AeroTech15™?
Start with homes and buildings that use “tight” construction methods—those with extensive insulation, sealed attics, and minimal air leakage. These structures are excellent at retaining conditioned air, but they also trap vapor. Without a pathway for moisture to escape, it can condense beneath the roofing layer and lead to problems. AeroTech15™ functions like a pressure-release valve—quietly but effectively improving indoor air quality and preserving structural integrity.
High-slope roofs in regions like the Southeast and Pacific Northwest are another ideal fit. In these areas, heavy rainfall and high humidity demand fast-drying systems. Builders working on multi-family developments, high-end custom homes, or performance-rated commercial projects gain a clear edge by specifying breathable underlayments from the start.
It’s also worth distinguishing between “breathable” and “permeable.” Not all synthetic underlayments labeled permeable meet the performance standards of AeroTech15™. With a water vapor transmission rate engineered for real-world exposure, this product balances breathability and durability without compromising moisture protection.
Real-World Benefits for Contractors
Contractors using AeroTech15™ consistently report fewer callbacks—especially in complex projects where attic ventilation is limited or moisture levels in the sheathing run high. The added assurance during the drying phase of new construction or post-storm rebuilds is invaluable, especially on fast-paced jobs where getting dried-in quickly is mission-critical.
From a handling standpoint, AeroTech15™ is jobsite-friendly:
- Easy to apply
- Tear-resistant in high winds
- Lays flat with minimal curling or wrinkling
These small features make a big impact on safety and speed during installation.
Nationwide Supply and Support
Continental Materials supplies AeroTech15™ to distributors and contractors across key markets in the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest, with rapid fulfillment through our national distribution network. Whether you’re working in Florida’s hurricane zones or Tennessee’s temperate valleys, you can count on AeroTech15™ to perform under pressure.
As building codes tighten and homeowner expectations increase, breathable underlayments are quickly becoming standard practice. AeroTech15™ puts builders ahead of the curve—delivering code-compliant performance while protecting against long-term structural damage.
Reconsider Your Spec
If you’re bidding on a project in a region where heat, humidity, or heavy snow are factors, it may be time to rethink your underlayment spec. A small change can deliver long-term protection and peace of mind—and AeroTech15™ makes that decision easy.
Visit https://www.continentalmaterials.com to explore our full underlayment line, or call 1-800-247-6637 to speak with a product specialist about the right solution for your next job.