Ice and Water Shield

Standard (SBS-Modified Bitumen):

• Self-adhering - Peel-and-stick application to clean, dry deck
• Rubberized asphalt - Seals around nail penetrations
• Split release film - Center-split backing for easier application
• Granule surfaced - Some products have granule surface for UV protection during construction
• Common brands - Grace Ice & Water Shield, GAF WeatherWatch, CertainTeed WinterGuard

High-Temperature Products:

• For metal roofing - Withstand higher temperatures under metal panels
• Enhanced adhesion - Better performance in hot climates
• Specialty applications - Under tile, slate, or metal where temperatures exceed standard product limits

Composite/Synthetic:

• Non-bitumen based - Some newer products use different compounds
• Wider temperature range - Application and performance across temperature extremes
• May have different installation requirements

Visual Identification:

• Color - Typically black, gray, or tan depending on brand and type
• Surface - Smooth, granulated, or film-covered
• Thickness - Usually 40-60 mil (thicker than synthetic underlayment)
• Edge pattern - May have printed guidelines for overlap

Where It Should Be Installed:

• Eaves - From edge to 24" minimum past interior wall line
• Valleys - Full valley coverage, minimum 36" wide
• Penetrations - Around chimneys, vents, skylights
• Low slopes - Areas below 4:12 pitch
• Rake edges - Along sloped edges in severe climates
• Roof-to-wall intersections - Up the wall behind step flashing

When You Can Verify Installation:

• During construction - Before shingles are installed
• During reroof - When old roofing is removed
• Attic inspection - Sometimes visible from below in unfinished attics
• Permit records - May be documented in roofing permits
• Contractor documentation - Installation photos from roofing contractor

At Eaves Without Protection:

• Ice dam formation leads to interior water damage
• Repeat damage with every significant snow event
• Damage to insulation, drywall, framing behind eave walls
• Mold growth in affected wall and ceiling cavities

In Valleys Without Protection:

• Concentrated water flow finds any gap or penetration
• Leaks may appear far from actual entry point
• Damage to framing, decking, and interior finishes

At Penetrations Without Protection:

• Water entry around pipe boots, vents, chimneys
• Difficult to trace leaks back to source
• Chronic moisture problems in surrounding materials

Targeted Addition (Not Recommended):

• Remove shingles in affected areas
• Install ice and water shield on exposed deck
• Reinstall or replace shingles
• Risk: Integrating new membrane with existing creates potential failure points
• Cost: Often approaches partial reroof cost for little benefit

For Ice Dam Issues:

• Improve attic insulation and ventilation (reduces ice dam formation)
• Install heat cables at eaves (reduces ice dam severity)
• Ensure gutters are clean and functional
• Manage snow accumulation
• Address root cause rather than symptom

For Valley Leaks:

• Ensure proper shingle installation and valley flashing
• Add or replace metal valley flashing
• Apply appropriate sealants at critical points
• Consider closed-cut valley to open valley conversion

Cost Considerations:

• Ice and water shield material: $100-200 per roll (varies by brand)
• Installation: Typically included in base reroof cost
• Adding to existing roof: Labor cost makes it impractical
• Full reroof: Best opportunity to ensure proper protection

Specification Requirements:

• Specify ice and water shield at all code-required locations
• Consider extending beyond minimums in severe climates:
• - Full eave coverage 36"+ past exterior wall
• - Full valley coverage up to ridge
• - 24" surrounding all penetrations
• - Along all rake edges
• - At all roof-to-wall intersections

Material Selection:

• Choose products appropriate for the roof type (standard vs. high-temperature)
• Verify compatibility with decking material
• Check manufacturer's exposure limits if roof won't be completed quickly
• Consider granule-surfaced products if UV exposure is likely during construction

Installation Verification:

• Request photos of ice and water shield installation before shingle application
• Verify coverage extent matches specifications
• Check that proper overlap is maintained
• Document installation for future reference

Documentation to Request:

• Photos showing membrane installed at eaves, valleys, and penetrations
• Product data sheet for the specific membrane used
• Warranty information for the underlayment system
• Installation date to track exposure time

Verification Methods:

• Ask for original construction or reroof documentation
• Check building permits for material specifications
• Inspect from attic if visible (may be stapled through from above)
• When replacing isolated areas, check for presence

If Uncertain:

• Improve attic ventilation and insulation to reduce ice dam risk
• Install heat cables as secondary protection
• Plan for proper installation at next reroof
• Budget for comprehensive replacement if problems occur