Ice and Water Shield: A Comprehensive Guide to Protection against Water Damage

Introduction

Water damage can be a costly and time-consuming problem for homeowners. Ice and water shield, a self-adhering membrane, is a simple and effective way to protect your home from this type of damage.

What is Ice and Water Shield?

Ice and water shield is a self-adhering membrane that is applied to the roof deck prior to the installation of shingles. It is made of a rubberized asphalt compound that is designed to seal out water and ice. Ice and water shield is typically installed in areas of the roof that are most vulnerable to water damage, such as valleys, eaves, and around chimneys.

Benefits of Ice and Water Shield

Ice and water shield offers a number of benefits, including:

Protects against water damage
Prevents ice dams
Extends the life of your roof
Easy to install
Affordable

How to Install Ice and Water Shield

Installing ice and water shield is a relatively simple process. First, the roof deck must be cleaned and prepared. Then, the ice and water shield is applied to the roof deck, starting at the eaves and working up the roof. The ice and water shield is overlapped by 6 inches at the seams. Finally, the shingles are installed over the ice and water shield.

Cost of Ice and Water Shield

The cost of ice and water shield varies depending on the size of the roof and the type of ice and water shield used. However, the average cost is between $150 and $300 per square.

Is Ice and Water Shield Worth It?

Ice and water shield is a relatively inexpensive way to protect your home from water damage. It is a simple and effective way to extend the life of your roof and prevent costly repairs.

Interesting Case Studies

Here are a few interesting case studies that demonstrate the benefits of ice and water shield:

In one case, a homeowner in Minnesota installed ice and water shield on his roof before a major snowstorm. The snowstorm caused ice dams to form on the roof, but the ice and water shield prevented the ice from leaking into the home.

In another case, a homeowner in Florida installed ice and water shield on her roof before a hurricane. The hurricane caused high winds and rain, but the ice and water shield prevented the water from leaking into the home.

Conclusion

Ice and water shield is a simple and effective way to protect your home from water damage. It is a relatively inexpensive investment that can save you a lot of money in the long run. If you are considering installing ice and water shield on your roof, be sure to consult with a qualified roofing contractor.