An ice and water shield is necessary for a home’s roofing system, though it usually goes unnoticed. This waterproof membrane sits beneath the shingles, providing an extra protection against moisture, leaks, and water damage.
While invisible once installed, an ice and water shield greatly safeguard a home from the elements. This guide will explore what an ice and water shield is, its benefits, its installation process, and why it’s important for any roofing project.
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Key Takeaways
- An ice and water shield acts as a protective barrier, protecting vulnerable areas on your roof from water damage and leaks.
- An ice and water shield should sit on top of the wood sheathing but under the shingles on your roof.
- These barriers protect your roof from ice and water but can also create a vapor barrier where gasses can't easily escape.
- The cost of an ice and water barrier is $4.72 per square foot on average.
What Is an Ice and Water Shield?
An ice and water shield, or roofing underlayment, is a rubberized membrane installed underneath roof shingles. This protective barrier prevents water infiltration in vulnerable roof areas like eaves, valleys, and around chimneys. This slip-resistant product is a peel and stick roof underlayment and adheres directly to the roof deck, creating a watertight seal that guards against ice dams, wind-driven rain, and other moisture-related issues.
Roofers sometimes install ice and water shields on other vulnerable parts of the roof, such as chimneys, vents, and valleys.
Types of Ice and Water Shields
Ice and water shields come in various types, each designed to meet specific roofing needs and preferences. Selecting the proper type is important for effective protection.
- Smooth Surface Ice and Water Shields: Typically used on low-slope roofs, smooth surface shields offer a sleek and uniform appearance. They are designed for ease of installation and are the go-to choice for straightforward roofing projects where looks are considered equally important as functionality.
- High-Heat Ice and Water Shields: These shields are heat-resistant materials, resembling cotton-like fibers. They are particularly beneficial for metal roofs, where heat absorption and growth pose challenges. By preventing the roof covering from adhering to the metal during temperature fluctuations, high-heat shields help maintain roof integrity over time.
Granular or Sand Surface Ice and Water Shields: Known for being the thinnest among the shield types, granular shields are ideal for roof valleys prone to leaks. Despite their delicate nature, they offer reliable protection where the roof angles direct water flow to concentrated areas, making them indispensable for complex roof designs.
This video from Digital Roofing Innovations explains why many roofs need ice and water shields:
Benefits of Installing an Ice and Water Shield
Installing an ice and water shield offers several advantages, building a foundation for a robust and resilient roofing system.
Protection Against Ice Dams and Water Damage
Ice dams, formed when snow melts and refreezes at the roof’s edge, cause significant water damage. An ice and water shield is a formidable defense, blocking water from penetrating the roof and seeping into the home. This protective layer guarantees that, even in harsh climates, the home’s interior remains dry and safe.
Enhanced Roof Longevity
The presence of an ice and water shield helps prolong the life of a roofing system by minimizing the risks of water-induced deterioration. It acts as a protective layer that maintains the structural integrity of the roof deck, ensuring that it stands the test of time and adverse weather.
Versatility and Adaptability
Ice and water shields are compatible with a broad range of roofing materials, such as asphalt, felt shingles, fiberglass, tile, and metal. This versatility allows you to select your preferred look without compromising protection, making you feel content regardless of material choice.
Read Also: Outstanding Home Warranty Plans for Roofing
How to Install an Ice and Water Shield on a Roof
Knowing the installation process of an ice and water shield equips you with the knowledge to oversee projects effectively or engage with professionals insightfully.
Where to Apply an Ice and Water Shield
Positioning of the ice and water shield is key to its effectiveness. The installation should focus on potential points of vulnerability in the roofing system. It is typically installed above the wood sheathing and beneath the shingles, forming a protective layer over the fascia board.
This application ensures water can’t get between the fascia and the first roof board. It also protects the most exposed parts of the roof.
When to Install an Ice and Water Protector
Timing is important when installing an ice and water shield. It should be the first underlayment applied, placed down before any felt or other roofing materials.
Installers should place the shield under the flashing to direct water away from these areas when working on roofs with complex connections, like chimneys and dormers. This sequencing establishes a continuous barrier that is resistant to water ingress.
Installation Process
Overlap and Finish: Crossing sections by at least 6 inches ensures no gaps are left, which helps the shield resist water. Secure the edges, if needed, with carefully placed roofing nails, though many modern shields come with a self-adhering design that reduces the need for mechanical fasteners. water protector below the flashing to create an effective water barrier.
Surface Preparation: Begin by thoroughly cleaning and drying the roof surface to secure excellent adhesion and longevity of the ice and water shield.
Measuring and Cutting: Carefully measure and cut the shield to right-fit the designated installation areas, considering allowances for overhang and overlap. Precision in this step underpins the success of the installation.
Application: Peel the backing and slowly lay the shield from the lowest part of the roof. This technique facilitates a natural layering that repels water. As the membrane is applied, installers should smooth out air bubbles and wrinkles to maintain integrity and aesthetics.
Watch this video from Cenvar Roofing for a visual tutorial of ice and water shield installation:
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing an Ice and Water Shield
Even with robust materials, improper installation undermines a shield’s effectiveness. Avoid these common installation errors for the best results:
Incorrect Placement
Misplacing the shield by failing to cover important areas like valleys and eaves or not extending far enough up the roof creates vulnerabilities.
Inadequate Surface Preparation
Failure to adequately clean or dry the roof results in weak adhesion, reducing the shield’s protective capabilities.
Insufficient Overlapping
Overlapping sections inadequately lead to unwanted gaps, allowing potential points for water intrusion.
Weather Conditions
Attempting installation in extreme cold or wet conditions compromises adhesive performance, making the shield less effective.
While the temperature can be above 40℉ during rain, working on a wet roof is dangerous, as the rain increases your chances of slipping. Even professional roofers are at risk and have the fifth-highest rate of work-related death in construction, primarily attributed to falls.
So, it’s best to wait for relatively warm and dry weather to apply an ice and water shield — or better yet, leave the job to a professional.
Is an Ice and Water Shield Necessary?
In many parts of the United States, ice and water shields are necessary, with some locales instituting mandatory regulations regarding their use. Regions where winter temperatures generally drop below 25°F usually require these shields to combat the formation of ice dams and subsequent water damage.
If you live in this climate, buying an ice and water shield is a good way to protect your home from bad weather. Learn your local building codes and talk to roofers. This can help you decide if you need it based on the weather, so you can follow them and protect yourself.
Cost Considerations for Ice and Water Shields
When planning for ice and water shield installation, you must consider costs within the broader context of a roofing investment. The price of these shields varies based on several factors, including the specific brand, geographic location, and selected product type. According to Angi, installing an ice and water shield costs about $4—$5.50 per square foot.
Investing wisely in good materials and installation services can save you a lot of money in the long run. This is because you will need to take care of your pool less and avoid paying for repairs because of water damage.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Compatibility with Roofing Materials
Ice and water shields function harmoniously with a variety of roofing materials. This compatibility enhances their attractiveness as a universal solution to water-related roofing issues.
Asphalt Shingles
Among the most common roofing materials in residential construction, asphalt shingles pair well with ice and water shields. The shield is a secondary defense against water penetrating or bypassing the shingles.
Metal Roofing
Due to its reflective properties and significant thermal expansion, metal roofing requires a specialized shield. High-heat ice and water shields are especially compatible with metal, preventing sticking and maintaining roof flexibility.
Tile Roofs
An ice and water shield, which protects the main problem of water damage in roof valleys, is a good choice for tile roofs, which are known for being strong and long-lasting.
Wood Shakes and Slate
These expensive roofing materials benefit from the extra moisture protection that ice and water shields give. This makes them last longer and keeps the wood or stone looking natural.
Before buying an ice and water shield, talk to roof experts to make sure the chosen one works with your specific material. This professional input aids in maximizing effectiveness and longevity under the given climatic conditions.
Potential Drawbacks of Ice and Water Shields
While ice and water shields offer significant reinforcement for roofing systems, they are not without their considerations:
Vapor Barrier Concerns
Installing a shield across the entire roof inadvertently creates a vapor barrier, trapping moisture and gasses between layers. Ensuring proper attic ventilation is necessary to maintain air circulation and prevent condensation or unwanted substances buildup.
Increased Installation Time and Costs
Adding an ice and water shield extends a roofing project’s duration and financial investment. The protective benefits justify the additional time and monetary commitment.
Limited Exposure Time
Many ice and water shields require coverage with shingles or other materials within a limited time, usually not exceeding 30 days. Prolonged exposure reduces the adhesive qualities of the shield, so timely completion of roofing post-installation is imperative.
Final Thoughts About Ice and Water Shields
Ice and water shields are a valuable addition to any roofing system, providing an extra layer of protection against moisture-related damage. They may cost more initially, but they will help the roof last longer. This is because they stop leaks and make the roof last longer.
When considering an ice and water shield, it’s wise to speak with a professional roofer who assesses the specific needs of a home based on its location, climate, and existing roofing structure.
Knowing the benefits, how to install, and possible problems of ice and water shields can help you make smart choices to protect your home and keep your roof safe.
