Where Does Ice and Water Shield Go on a Roof?
I remember the first time I saw an ice dam on my roof. It was a long, thick ridge of ice that had formed along the edge of the roof, and it was causing water to back up and leak into my attic. I had no idea what to do, so I called a roofing contractor. He told me that I needed to install ice and water shield on my roof.
Ice and water shield is a self-adhering membrane that is installed on the roof deck before the shingles are put on. It is designed to prevent water from leaking into the attic through the seams between the shingles. Ice and water shield is also effective at preventing ice dams from forming.
Ice Dams: What They Are and How to Prevent Them
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms along the edge of a roof. It is caused by warm air from the inside of the house escaping through the roof and melting the snow on the roof. The melted snow then runs down the roof until it reaches the cold eaves, where it freezes and forms an ice dam. Ice dams can cause water to back up and leak into the attic, which can damage the roof, the insulation, and the drywall.
There are a number of things that you can do to prevent ice dams from forming on your roof, including:
- Insulating your attic properly
- Venting your attic properly
- Installing ice and water shield on your roof
Benefits of Ice and Water Shield
There are a number of benefits to installing ice and water shield on your roof, including:
- Prevents leaks from forming in the attic
- Prevents ice dams from forming
- Protects the roof from damage
- Increases the lifespan of the roof
When to Install Ice and Water Shield
Ice and water shield should be installed on the roof deck before the shingles are put on. It is important to install ice and water shield in all areas of the roof that are prone to ice dams, including the eaves, valleys, and around chimneys and skylights.
How to Install Ice and Water Shield
Ice and water shield is a self-adhering membrane that is easy to install. To install ice and water shield, simply peel off the backing and press the membrane onto the roof deck. Be sure to overlap the edges of the membrane by at least 6 inches.
Tips for Installing Ice and Water Shield
Here are a few tips for installing ice and water shield:
- Make sure the roof deck is clean and dry before installing ice and water shield.
- Wear gloves when handling ice and water shield.
- Be careful not to puncture the membrane.
- Overlap the edges of the membrane by at least 6 inches.
- Use a utility knife to trim the membrane around chimneys and skylights.
Conclusion
Ice and water shield is an important part of any roofing system. It can help to prevent leaks, ice dams, and damage to the roof. If you are considering installing a new roof, be sure to ask your contractor about ice and water shield.
Are you interested in learning more about ice and water shield?
FAQ
Q: What is ice and water shield?
A: Ice and water shield is a self-adhering membrane that is installed on the roof deck before the shingles are put on. It is designed to prevent water from leaking into the attic through the seams between the shingles.
Q: What are the benefits of installing ice and water shield?
A: The benefits of installing ice and water shield include preventing leaks from forming in the attic, preventing ice dams from forming, protecting the roof from damage, and increasing the lifespan of the roof.
Q: When should I install ice and water shield?
A: Ice and water shield should be installed on the roof deck before the shingles are put on.
Q: How do I install ice and water shield?
A: To install ice and water shield, simply peel off the backing and press the membrane onto the roof deck. Be sure to overlap the edges of the membrane by at least 6 inches.
