Ice & Water Shield

Ice and water shields, or self-adhering roofing underlayment, are critical components of modern roofing systems. It provides extra protection in areas prone to leaks and water damage. Designed to guard against ice dams, wind-driven rain, and heavy snow, this specialized membrane helps protect vulnerable roof areas and prolongs the life of the entire roofing system.

What is Ice & Water Shield?

Ice and water shield is a self-adhesive, rubberized asphalt underlayment that bonds directly to the roof deck. It creates a watertight barrier, preventing water from penetrating the roof in high-risk areas. This underlayment is particularly effective in protecting against ice dams, which can form in colder climates when melting snow refreezes at the roof’s edges, leading to water backup under shingles.

Features of Ice & Water Shield

  1. Self-Adhesive Backing:
    • Bonds directly to the roof deck, ensuring a tight seal and preventing water infiltration.
  2. Waterproof Material:
    • Made from rubberized asphalt, creating a durable, watertight layer.
  3. Temperature Resilience:
    • Remains flexible and effective in both extreme cold and high heat.
  4. Slip-Resistant Surface:
    • Some products feature a textured surface to improve safety during installation.
  5. Tear Resistance:
    • Strong enough to withstand foot traffic and installation stresses.

Benefits of Ice & Water Shield

  1. Prevents Leaks in Vulnerable Areas:
    • Protects valleys, eaves, ridges, and areas around roof penetrations like chimneys, skylights, and vents.
  2. Guards Against Ice Dams:
    • Prevents water infiltration caused by ice dams during freeze-thaw cycles in colder climates.
  3. Enhanced Weather Protection:
    • Acts as a secondary barrier against wind-driven rain, heavy snow, and ice.
  4. Prolongs Roof Longevity:
    • Reduces the risk of water damage, mold, and rot, extending the roof system’s life.
  5. Easy Installation:
    • The self-adhering design simplifies installation, saving time and labor costs.

Where to Install Ice & Water Shield

  1. Roof Valleys:
    • High-risk areas where water naturally flows and accumulates.
  2. Eaves:
    • Protects against ice dams and water backup along roof edges.
  3. Ridges:
    • Additional protection for peaks prone to wind-driven rain.
  4. Around Roof Penetrations:
    • Seals areas around chimneys, skylights, vents, and pipe boots to prevent leaks.
  5. Low-Slope Roofs:
    • Provides extra waterproofing for roofs with pitches prone to water pooling.

Installation Process

  1. Roof Deck Preparation:
    • Ensure the roof deck is clean, dry, and free of debris.
  2. Cut to Fit:
    • Measure and cut the shield to fit the target areas, such as valleys, eaves, or around penetrations.
  3. Peel and Stick:
    • Remove the backing and press the shield firmly onto the roof deck, ensuring smooth application without wrinkles.
  4. Overlap Edges:
    • Overlap sections by at least 2–4 inches to maintain a continuous waterproof barrier.
  5. Integrate with Other Materials:
    • Install additional underlayment or shingles on top of the ice and water shield to complete the roofing system.

Maintenance Tips for Ice & Water Shield

  1. Inspect After Severe Weather:
    • Check for signs of damage or displacement, especially in areas prone to high winds or heavy snowfall.
  2. Ensure Proper Installation:
    • Address areas where the shield may have been improperly adhered or where seams are not correctly overlapped.
  3. Replace When Re-Roofing:
    • Ice and water shields should be replaced during a complete roof replacement to maintain its effectiveness.

Why Use Ice & Water Shield?

Ice and water shields are essential for protecting high-risk areas of the roof that are most susceptible to water damage. Its ability to prevent leaks, safeguard against ice dams, and enhance weatherproofing makes it a valuable addition to any roofing system, particularly in regions with harsh winters or heavy rainfall.

Conclusion

Ice and water shields are a smart investment for anyone looking to protect their roof from water damage and extend its lifespan. By providing a watertight barrier in vulnerable areas, this self-adhering underlayment offers peace of mind, especially in challenging weather conditions. Whether you’re building a new roof or upgrading an existing one, incorporating ice and water shield is a practical and effective way to ensure your roofing system stands the test of time.