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What is Ice and Water Shield? | Foster Roofing

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Ice and water shield is installed on many roofs in the NWA and River Valley areas due to the mild weather conditions we receive. Ice and water shield is a waterproof roof underlayment membrane. The back surface of the membrane is adhesive and will bond to the roof decking to form a watertight seal around the nail penetrations when shingles are applied. These features greatly reduce the possibility of leaks occurring when ice or storms force water underneath the shingles. Keeping the area dry is the best and easiest way to avoid water damage during mild weather conditions.

Ice and water shield is used to effectively resist water penetration in areas around vents, chimneys, skylights, and valleys- where water tends to collect and flow. It can keep water from seeping under your roof and doing damage to your roof, attic, and sometimes the interior of your home. Ice and water shield is required at the install of your roof per many local city codes.

The Arkansas Roofing Code documentation states that in areas where there has been a history of ice forming along the eaves, an ice and water shield that consists of at least two layers shall be used in lieu of standard underlayment and extend from the lowest edges of all roof surfaces.

Low-sloped roofs- between 2/12 and 4/12- are at a higher risk and should be protected with ice and water shield. Significant snow will collect more on lower sloped roofs than those with higher sloped roofs. Lower slopes also allow ice dams to develop higher up the roof. Ice and water shield will protect your roofing materials below the shingles from water penetration that can occur from these conditions.

Ventilation, chimneys, dormers, skylights, and other roofing features can benefit greatly from ice and water shield protection. In areas with vent stacks and chimneys, the shingles and/or flashing do not completely overlap. When ice and water shield is installed, it is important to consider proper attic ventilation. Dormers and skylights penetrate the roof decking, which can cause the decking to become more vulnerable to weather-related conditions.

When ice and water shield is installed on your home, Foster Roofing includes city code documentation for more information regarding ice and water shield installation. Foster Roofing believes ice and water shield is one of the most effective ways to protect your roof and your home. Ice and water shield protects against ultra-high temperatures, wind-driven rain, ice dams, and backed-up water. Ice and water shield provides dual barrier protection, does not dry up and crack, stops leaks around flashing areas, and seals around nails.

If you need your roof repaired, assessed, or replaced, contact Foster Roofing- your local reputable roofing contractor. Contact us today to have our expert representatives conduct a full roof assessment and provide a FREE ESTIMATE.

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS:                                                                 RIVER VALLEY:

3357 Wagon Wheel Road                                                                      5600 South 66th Street

Springdale, Arkansas 72762                                                                 Fort Smith, Arkansas 72903

479-751-2300                                                                                          479-308-0413

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