What Is an Ice and Water Shield?

High-heat ice and water shield have cotton-like fibers that make them the thickest option of the three. This type of ice and water shield is ideal for metal roofs, especially those in areas above the US snowline.
An ice and water shield is a membrane that protects your home from moisture. Although you may not know it, one of the most important parts of your roof is a layer you can’t see: the ice and water shield.
If you live in an area that faces heavy annual snowfall, plan on installing two rows of shield to your roof’s eaves and peaks.
An ice and water shield is integral to protecting your home from the damage caused by water and ice. Even though you can’t see this layer of roofing, it does the hard work of protecting your home from leaks.
The cost of roofing materials varies from region to region, but we can look at national averages to get a good idea of the cost of ice and water shields. Granular shield costs around per 100 square feet. Smooth shield costs around 0 per 100 square feet. High heat shield costs approximately 5 per 100 square feet.

What Is an Ice and Water Shield?

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You are certainly allowed to cover your entire roof in ice and water shield, but it probably isn’t necessary. Instead, let a roofing contractor tell you where ice and water are more likely to “pool” and have the shield installed in those areas.

Do I Need an Ice and Water Shield?

The underlayment and roof finish attach to this decking. While those layers provide some protection, it’s also important to have an ice and water shield in place. Plywood absorbs water, so installing an ice and water shield on top of that plywood layer ensures that your sheathing doesn’t become water-logged.
Many types of ice and water shield come with a lifetime warranty.
If you’re planning to have a new roof installed on your home, talk to your contractor about installing an ice and water barrier at potential risk areas on the roof.

Three Types of Ice and Water Shield

One of the most essential parts of your roofing system is the ice and water shield – here’s what you should know about it.

Granular

Another factor determining if you need an ice and water shield is your roof’s pitch. Roofs with pitches of 2/12, 3/12, and 4/12 should have ice and water shields from one end to the other. Flatter roofs hold more water, making an ice and water shield necessary.

Smooth

Also, consider the climate. Coding laws require homes above the US snowline to have an ice and water shield. The shield must run along the roof’s edge to prevent ice from damming after a heavy snowstorm.

High Heat

A granular ice and water shield has a sandpaper-like finish, much like asphalt shingles. Roofing contractors install this type of shield in roof valleys. Even though granular shields are the thinnest option of the three, they perform well, especially in areas where snowfall isn’t too heavy.

Final Thoughts

The primary purpose of an ice and water shield is to protect your roof’s sheathing. Decking (or sheathing) is the layer of plywood that attaches to the joists in your roof.
Whether you choose a luxurious slate roof or a traditional asphalt shingle roof, the roof’s finish is the only visible part. Your roof has multiple layers, each of which plays a vital role in protecting your belongings, family, and home from the elements.
When professionally installed, these layers come together to form a roof system. Homeowners should understand the various components to keep an eye out for problems that require professional repair and replacement.