Most residential exterior contractors in the Waukesha County metro area offer roofing services. Whether it be roof repairs or installing a completely new roofing system, it is probably the most prevalent service offered by most contractors.
Aside from the typical materials such as shingles, felt, and any number of flashing’s, one very common material that may be suggested here in the Midwest is ice and water barrier – otherwise known as ice and water shield. In many instances the common person will ask what its purpose is and if it is really necessary.
The Value of Ice and Water Shield versus the extra Cost
Whether you’re a home or business owner and considering having your roof replaced, one of the vital things you should contemplate investing in is Ice and Water Shield. Typically when the roofing contractor provide a bid, one of the options will be installing ice and water shield — in the very least along all gutter lines on your roof deck. When you see the additional cost you will likely be asking yourself if the value worth the extra price?
The answer to that question is an affirmative YES!
Ice and water shield is not a cheap roofing accessory. Although many would argue the fact of whether its an “accessory” or a “necessity”, the truth is that it all boils down to the pitch of your roof, and whether or not you currently experience ice damming issues? In either case, if you ultimately decide that the investment is worth it, there are some tips that will ensure that you get the most out of your investment.
Probably the most critical part of the ice and water shield installation process is that the edge of the ice and water barrier drape down off the roof decking and over the fascia, or in the least that it drape into the gutter if you are not having your gutters replaced. The critical objective is to create a continuous barrier from either the gutter, or the fascia, up and on to the roof decking for approximately three feet to eliminate all water infiltration into the roofing system. In the event that your not having your gutter replaced and the ice and water shield will be draped down the inside back of the gutter, it will be necessary to install new gutter apron “over” the ice and water shield; sandwiching the ice and water shield between the apron and the gutter back.
This illustration shows where ice can and will migrate up and into the soffit, under the shingles, and ultimately onto the roof if there is not a proper barrier to prevent it. Once water penetrates the roof it will destroy insulation and drywall.
When you talk with a residential roofing contractor don’t hesitate to ask questions.
