Roof ice and water shields play a vital role in any roof system by guarding against water damage resulting from ice dams and weather-related incidents. As stated by Angi’s List, “a simple membrane [of ice and water shield] on your roof deck can save you thousands of dollars.” At Schroeder Roofing, we understand the significance of having the appropriate ice and water barrier roof. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about what are ice and water shields, their importance, and the underlayment options available for you.
A Detailed Look at Ice and Water Barrier Roof
The ice and water shield functions as a water-resistant membrane that protects your roof from potential water damage. Made from a rubberized asphalt material, it firmly adheres to the roof deck, ensuring a secure seal. Professional roofers carefully install this protective layer in areas susceptible to leaks, such as valleys, chimneys, and eaves.
Why is Underlayment Crucial?
Underlayment, like ice and water shield, is important because it offers an extra layer of protection against water damage in roof areas vulnerable to leaks. Ice dams can force water to seep under the shingles and into the attic, causing damage to the roof deck, insulation, and other parts of the roof system. These issues can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and costly repairs.
Ice and water barriers help prevent this damage by providing a watertight seal in roof areas most prone to leaks.
Types of Ice and Water Shield
Various underlayment options are available, each with its unique properties and benefits. The most common types of roof ice and water shields include granular, smooth, and high-temperature.
Granular
Granular underlayment is the thinnest type of water barrier and is installed in your roof’s valleys. Made of a rubberized asphalt material with a granular surface, it helps prevent shingles from slipping. Granular ice and water barrier is the most affordable option, costing around $50 per row of material.
Smooth
Smooth ice and water shields are used on low-sloped roofs. Like the granular type, it is made of a rubberized asphalt material, but it features a smooth surface that allows for better adhesion to the roof deck. Smooth ice and water shield is more expensive than granular ice and water shield, costing around $100 per square foot.
High-Temperature
High-temperature ice and water barrier is made of cotton-like material and is used on metal roofs to prevent the material from expanding, contracting, and damaging the membrane. It is the most expensive type of ice and water shield, costing around $125 per square foot.
Upgrading Your Roof with Ice and Water Shield
If you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall, like most of Colorado, it is important to install specialized underlayment on your roof. You may even be required by law to have it installed in certain jurisdictions.
In addition to installing it in areas of your roof required by code, consider adding ice and water barrier around the edges of your roof to prevent leaks from ice dams. This can be done as part of a roof replacement, and while it will add to the cost of the project, it can save you money in the long run by preventing water damage.
Contact Schroeder Roofing for Your Free Consultation
If you have questions about ice and water shield or need other roofing needs, contact Schroeder Roofing today. With the right type of underlayment installed in the right places, you can protect your roof and home from water damage for years to come.