Thinking of an Ice and Water Shield? Get the Inside Info to Pick the Best One

An ice and water shield offers critical protection against roof leaks caused by ice dams or wind-driven rain. If you live in a cold climate prone to heavy snow and ice buildup, an ice and water shield is practically a must-have. Even in warmer regions, it can save thousands on potential water damage repairs. But not all ice and water shields are created equal. As you research options for your roof, here's an in-depth guide on everything you need to know to pick the best product.

What is Ice and Water Shield?

Before we dive into the details, let's start with the basics - what exactly is an ice and water shield? It's a thick, rubberized asphalt membrane that gets installed under your primary roofing material. It contains a special stretchable adhesive on one side that allows it to conform and seal tightly to the roof deck.

Definition and Purpose of Ice and Water Shield

The main purpose of an ice and water shield is to protect vulnerable areas of your roof from water infiltration and leakage. It creates a watertight barrier along the eaves, valleys, and low-slope sections. This prevents melting snow or rain from seeping underneath and causing damage to your roof deck and interior ceilings and walls.

How Does It Prevent Roof Leaks?

Ice and water shield prevents leaks in a few key ways:

• The thick, rubberized asphalt coat is impermeable to water.
• It seals tightly around roofing nails and fasteners.
• The flexibility allows it to conform to the roof shape.
• It overlaps like shingles, so water runs off the surface.

Key Benefits of Using Ice and Water Shield

Installing ice and water shield under your shingles or other roofing provides major benefits:

• Prevents leaks from ice dams and wind-driven rain.
• Protects vulnerable areas like valleys, eaves, and low-slope sections.
• Saves on expensive interior repairs from water damage.
• Extends the life of your roof by protecting the decking.

When Do You Need Ice and Water Shield?

If you live in a region with heavy winter snow and frequent freeze/thaw cycles, ice and water shield should absolutely be part of your roofing plan. But even in warmer climates, it can still provide worthwhile preventative leak protection.

Cold Climates Prone to Ice Dams

In cold regions, ice dams often form along the eaves as snow melts and refreezes. This traps water that can back up under shingles and lead to leaks. Ice and water shield placed along eaves and valleys provides a critical barrier against water backup from ice dams.

Vulnerable Parts of Any Roof

Even without ice dams, certain parts of a roof are more prone to leaks from wind-driven rain. Valleys channel large amounts of water. Eaves are exposed on three sides. Low-slope areas don't drain well. Installing ice and water shield in these spots adds leak protection.

Around Roof Projections and Openings

Areas where the roof surface is disrupted are also vulnerable. Skylights, chimneys, vent pipes and other projections should have ice and water shield installed around them as part of proper flashing.

To Extend Overall Roof Life

By protecting the roof deck from moisture, ice and water shield can extend the life of your roof by up to 50%. This preventative measure saves on costly repairs down the road.

What to Look For in the Best Ice and Water Shield

All ice and water shields serve the same basic purpose. But certain features and material innovations can affect performance. Here are key things to look for:

Self-Adhesive Rubberized Asphalt

The rubberized asphalt coat and adhesive backing is the most important component. It creates a fully waterproof membrane that seals around roofing fasteners.

Flexible for Conforming to Roof Shape

The best ice and water shield brands use flexible polymers in their material that allows it to stretch and mold to the roof deck. This prevents buckling or gaps.

Watertight Around Nails and Fasteners

Quality ice and water shield will maintain a tight seal when pierced by roofing nails or screws. Inferior products may crack or split when penetrated.

Easy Installation with Minimal Wrinkling

Look for brands designed to lay flat and smooth without excessive wrinkling. Deep wrinkles can lead to performance issues. Easier installation also saves time and labor.

Proper Installation Techniques

Even the best ice and water shield can fail if not installed correctly. Follow these tips for optimal performance:

Prepare the Roof Deck Surface

The deck surface must be properly cleaned, dried, and primed. Follow the manufacturer's prep guidelines.

Apply in Valleys, Eaves, Low-Slope Areas First

Focus application in the most vulnerable areas before doing full roof coverage. This conserves material.

Use Rollers for Maximum Adhesion

Use a weighted roller to apply even pressure. This activates the adhesive and creates a tight bond to the roof.

Seal All Seams and Laps Carefully

When overlapping material, carefully seal seams and edges with manufacturer recommended seam tape.

Work Around Obstacles Like Vents

Properly flash and seal ice and water shield around roof protrusions to avoid gaps in protection.

Common Ice and Water Shield Mistakes to Avoid

Like any roofing project, mistakes in ice and water shield installation can lead to problems down the road:

Wrinkles from Improper Application

Wrinkles and buckling create gaps for potential leakage. Take care to apply smoothly.

Leaks at Lapped Seams

Ensure seams have full contact and are sealed with seam tape according to guidelines.

Gaps Around Fasteners

Any gaps around roofing nails or screws can allow water entry. Ensure full sealing around penetrations.

Forgetting Vulnerable Areas

Be sure to cover eaves, valleys, protrusions, etc. Leaks often start in overlooked spots.

Using Wrong Nail Type

Only use recommended nails so you don't cause cracks or splits in the membrane.

Best Ice and Water Shield Brands and Products

With many brands on the market, it can be tricky to compare options. Focus on products with the ideal features:

Top Consumer-Rated Options

Look at reviews and feedback from other homeowners on performance and ease of use.

Contractor Recommended Brands

Roofing contractors have firsthand experience with different products.

Ideal Thickness and Weight

Heavier ice and water shield with thicker membrane typically performs better.

FAQs About Ice and Water Shields

For homeowners exploring ice and water shield options, here are answers to some common questions:

Is it Required by Code?

Building code often mandates ice and water shield in cold climates. It may also be required for certain roof designs even in warm areas.

How Long Does it Last?

Quality ice and water shield can last at least 10 years. Some premium brands now offer warranties of 20 years or more.

Can It Be Left Exposed?

Ice and water shields are designed to be covered by shingles or other roofing. Leaving them exposed can degrade their performance.

Does Color Matter?

While available in different colors, performance is the same. Neutral gray blends with most shingles.

Is a Primer or Adhesive Needed?

Self-adhesive products don't need additional primer or glue. Check manufacturer guidelines for any special prep or bonding requirements.

Installing a quality ice and water shield provides inexpensive insurance against costly roof leaks and water damage. While all major brands offer protection, look for advanced features like durability, strength, flexibility, adhesive effectiveness, and ease of installation when comparing products. And proper placement in vulnerable areas along with careful application is key to getting the full benefits. With the right ice and water shield keeping your roof dry, you can rest easy knowing your home and valuables are safe from the elements.