Understanding Ice & Water Shield in Roof Replacement

Ice and Water Shield is a crucial component in roof replacement that plays an essential role in protecting your home from water damage. This self-adhering, waterproofing material is installed under the roofing to create a secondary barrier against ice dams and wind-driven rain.

The Ice and Water Shield is typically used on vulnerable areas of the roof where water tends to collect or flow. These include valleys, eaves, rake edges, around chimneys, skylights, and other roof penetrations. Its purpose is to prevent moisture from seeping into the house if it gets beneath shingles or other roofing materials.

This protective shield works by sealing around nails that are driven through it. When shingles are nailed onto the shield, a tight seal forms at each penetration point that prevents water from getting through those holes into your home’s interior spaces. The adhesive backing allows it to stick directly to the roof deck which makes for a superior bond compared with traditional felt underlayment.

A key benefit of using an Ice & Water Shield during roof replacement is its ability to protect against ice dams – ridges of ice that form at the edge of roofs during winter months. Ice dams can cause serious damage as they Red Dirt Construction prevent melting snow from draining off your roof properly; instead forcing water back up under your shingles where it can eventually leak into your home causing structural damage and mold growth.

Another advantage of using this material in roofing projects lies in its resistance against wind-driven rain – another common source of leaks in homes. Unlike traditional felt paper underlayments which can tear easily when exposed to high winds or heavy rains, an Ice & Water Shield remains intact due to its rubberized asphalt layer providing superior protection against these weather conditions.

While installing an Ice & Water Shield may increase costs slightly during a roof replacement project due to its higher cost compared with conventional tar paper underlayment; homeowners should consider this as a valuable investment towards long-term protection for their homes. The added expense could potentially save you from costly repairs in the future caused by water damage.

In conclusion, an Ice & Water Shield is a vital component in roof replacement that provides superior protection against water penetration compared to traditional underlayment materials. Its self-adhering and sealing properties make it particularly effective in safeguarding vulnerable areas of your roof from potential leaks caused by ice dams or wind-driven rain. While it may add to the initial cost of your roofing project, the long-term benefits and peace of mind it offers make it a worthwhile investment for any homeowner.

Red Dirt Construction
51 S River Rd Suite B, Eagar, Arizona 85925
928-862-5869