What is Ice and Water Shield on Your Roof?
As a homeowner, it’s essential to understand the components that protect your Memphis roof from the elements, especially in colder climates where ice and snow can cause significant damage. One such component is the ice and water shield, a protective underlayment designed to prevent leaks and water damage. In this blog, we will delve into the world of ice and water shields, explaining what they are, how they work, and why they are a crucial element in safeguarding your roof.
What is an Ice and Water Shield?
An ice and water shield is a self-adhering, rubberized asphalt membrane applied to your decking and under your shingles on your roof. This specialized underlayment creates a watertight barrier, protecting your roof deck and home’s interior from leaks caused by ice dams, wind-driven rain, and other water-related issues.
How Does an Ice and Water Shield Work?
The ice and water shield works by sealing around nails, fasteners, and other penetration points, preventing water from seeping through and causing damage. Its self-adhesive nature allows it to bond directly to the roof deck, ensuring a continuous, watertight seal. In cold climates, it is particularly effective at preventing damage caused by ice dams, which occur when snow melts and refreezes at the edge of the roof, forcing water to back up under the shingles.
Where Should Ice and Water Shield be Installed?
While local building codes may vary, it is generally recommended to install an ice and water shield along the eaves, valleys, and rakes of the roof, as well as around any roof penetrations such as vents, chimneys, and skylights. These areas are more susceptible to water infiltration and leaks, making the added protection of an ice and water shield especially important.
Ice and Water Shield vs. Traditional Felt Underlayment
While traditional felt underlayment has been used for many years as a protective barrier beneath roofing materials, it does not offer the same level of protection as an ice and water shield. Unlike felt, which can tear and is prone to water absorption, the ice and water shield’s rubberized asphalt composition creates a much more durable and effective watertight seal. While it is often more expensive than felt, the ice and water shield’s superior performance and longevity make it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.
The Importance of Proper Installation
To fully benefit from the protection offered by an ice and water shield, proper installation is crucial. This means working with a qualified roofing contractor who has experience installing ice and water shields and adhering to local building codes and manufacturer guidelines. Improper installation can lead to compromised performance and a reduced lifespan for your roofing system.
Our Ice and Water Shield: WeatherMaster® Ice & Water 200 Underlayment
At Restoration Roofing, we take pride in using only the highest-quality materials to protect your home, which is why we choose Atlas Roofing’s WeatherMaster Ice & Water 200 Underlayment for our installations.
This top-of-the-line ice and water shield is a self-adhering, SBS-modified bitumen underlayment, designed to withstand even the most challenging weather conditions. With a durable, slip-resistant polyethylene surface, WeatherMaster Ice & Water 200 ensures maximum protection against leaks and water damage.
Its unique, flexible design allows for easy installation, while its ability to self-seal around nails and fasteners guarantees a watertight seal for your roof.
Check out the WeatherMaster Ice and Water 200 Benefits:
- UV Protected Surface – 45 Day Exposure
- High-Temperature Stability – 240°F
- Self-Adhesive Backing Seals Directly to the Deck
- Dual Modified Asphalt Provides Superior Granule Adhesion
- Aggressive Bond at Low Temperatures
- SBS-Modified Asphalt Coating Helps Seal Around Nails for a Watertight Result
- Fiberglass Mat Is Stronger and Provides Better Tear Resistance Than Saturated Felt Underlayment
- Atlas Signature Select® Roofing System Eligible
By choosing Restoration Roofing and the WeatherMaster Ice & Water 200 Underlayment, you can have confidence in the superior protection and longevity of your roofing system. Learn more about this exceptional product at https://www.atlasroofing.com/products/roof-underlayment/roof-underlayment-peel-and-stick/weathermaster-ice-and-water-200-underlayment.
Work With Restoration Roofing
An ice and water shield is an essential component of a well-protected roof, especially in regions with harsh winter weather. By understanding its function and importance, homeowners can make informed decisions about their roofing systems and safeguard their homes from potential water damage. Remember to consult with a professional roofing contractor to ensure your roofing materials are correctly installed and providing your roof with the protection it needs.
As the best roofing company in Memphis, we pride ourselves on our commitment to providing top-notch service to all of our customers. We use only the highest quality materials and have a team of highly trained and experienced professionals who are dedicated to getting the job done right the first time.
Give us a call at 901-854-3402 or fill out our Contact Us form and we will reach out to you with our next available inspection. Make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips on finding the best roofing contractor for you.
