Invest in your roof’s protection

By Orca Roofing & Exteriors. 

Learn how an ice and water shield can protect you and your home, both physically and fiscally. 

A roof is more than shingles and a wooden roof deck, it’s a complex system that is your home’s first and strongest defense against the elements. This system must be well-maintained and designed in order to keep your home structurally sound and the people who live there safe and comfortable. One tool that you can use to reinforce your roof is an ice and water shield. The experts here at Orca Roofing & Exteriors want to help you understand why this is such a vital area to protect and how investing in it today can save you time, money and stress in the future.  

The role of ice and water shield in your roof’s defense 

In the intricate world of construction, where every layer of a roofing system plays a crucial role, the ice and water shield stands out as a silent guardian against the elements. Far beyond visible shingles, roofs comprise a complex system of layers and components working harmoniously to create a shield for your home.  

The ice and water shield is a fully adhered roof underlayment, a waterproof membrane usually crafted with polymer-modified bitumen. This layer excels in warding off the threats of ice and water, preventing potential damage to the vulnerable areas beneath your roof. By expertly sealing the gaps and edges, it becomes your first line of defense, ensuring water stays where it belongs and does not infiltrate beneath shingles or compromise the integrity of your roof decking.  

Where ice and water shield work best 

Ensuring your roof’s resilience involves strategic placement of the ice and water shield, focusing on vulnerable areas prone to water damage. These critical zones include eaves, vents, stacks, rakes, roof valleys and sections where pipes and chimneys breach the roof and require additional protection beneath their flashing as part of a defense plan.  

Low-slope roofs, for example, are susceptible to snow and ice accumulation and benefit significantly from applying an ice and water shield to prevent potential leaks. In regions like the Pacific Northwest, where unpredictable weather patterns unleash storms, rains, snow and winds, the need for this safeguard becomes even more pronounced. 

While covering the entire roof with ice and water shield is a prudent choice, it’s crucial to balance this with a well-designed ventilation system, steering clear of vapor barriers and condensation pitfalls. Learn more about proper ventilation systems here.   

Why ice and water shield is a wise investment 

“Why should I install an ice and water shield?” – It’s a question worth delving into, especially if you reside in a rainy or snowy region like the Pacific Northwest.  

When water sneaks beneath your home’s shingles without a moisture barrier, you’re left vulnerable to a deluge of leaks. Here’s where the ice and water shield steps in as a guardian. It creates an impenetrable barrier, preventing water from finding its way under your shingles and leaving vulnerable areas exposed.  

Picture this: ice dams form during temperature fluctuations, creating a dam that holds melted water and pushes it beneath shingles. Enter the waterproof barrier, steadfastly adhere to your house, impervious to wind, ice or rain-induced movement. This formidable shield redirects water to your gutters, sparing your home from potential leaks. By investing in ice and water shields, you’re not just protecting your home. You’re safeguarding your wallet from the costly repairs that water damage could incur.  

Exploring types of ice and water shields 

Not all ice and water shields are the same. Three main types dominate the market: Granular or Sand Surface water shields, Smooth Surface water shields and high-heat water shields.  

• A granular surface is common on steeper roofs for enhanced traction and it is usually preferred as an option for shingle roofs. 
• Smooth surface is thicker and sturdier, ideal for safeguarding low-slope roofs. 
• High heat, often called “High Temp” or HT, is suitable for metal roofs. These are used on 100% of the roof deck due to increased heat.  

Choosing the right ice and water shield is a process that should be tailored to the specific needs of your project and home and depends on specific project requirements.  

Investing in protection: The crucial role of ice and water shield in your roofing system 

The question of whether an ice and water shield is a vital component of your roofing system bears significant weight. While it may be one of the more expensive elements, it strategically covers areas prone to high probabilities of leaks, making it a critical investment rather than an optional expense. Regrettably, it often becomes the top corner cut by those looking to trim costs, yet its cost per square foot aligns with that of shingles.  

At Orca Roofing & Exteriors, we view the installation of ice and water shields not as an additional cost but as an investment. Its presence acts as a formidable barrier, saving you money from potential and often costly repairs while extending your roof’s lifespan.  

On some occasions, individuals may attempt to sidestep its installation, but, when embarking on a new roof project, especially in regions like the Eastside of Washington with substantial rain and snowfall, we highly recommend its incorporation. Think of it not just as a protective layer but as a shield that pays dividends in safeguarding your home and preserving your peace of mind.  

Original article source: Orca Roofing & Exteriors