A roofing system is built of several layers and each of these layers should work together effectively for your roof to protect your home from the weather outside. The general roofing system is built in the following way: the supportive framing, roof deck, underlayment, and roofing material. While this standard construction procedure works well most of the time, there are some cases when your roof needs additional protection.
This is where an ice and water shield comes in. It is a specialized protective layer that provides crucial additional defense in vulnerable areas.
As a homeowner in Wisconsin, knowing the importance of an ice and water shield can be beneficial to your home. That’s where we hope to help — with a blog post dedicated to this exact roofing component.
What Is An Ice and Water Shield?

An ice and water shield is a self-adhering, waterproof underlayment that is installed beneath your shingles or other roofing materials. It’s specifically designed to protect vulnerable areas of your roof from water infiltration caused by ice dams, wind-driven rain, and melting snow — problems we know all too well in Wisconsin.
This durable material is coated on one side with an adhesive that makes it stick directly to the roof deck, forming a seal that’s watertight. Unlike traditional roofing felt, ice and water shields actively prevent water from seeping through the roofing material, even when shingles are compromised.
Types of Ice and Water Shield
Not all ice and water shields are created the same. Depending on your roof and its specific needs, there are a few variations of water and ice shields to consider.
Standard Ice and Water Shield:
This is the most commonly used type and is ideal for most homes, offering solid protection in key areas like eaves and valleys. It features a rubberized asphalt composition that creates a watertight seal and effectively blocks ice dams from forming.
High-Temperature Ice and Water Shield:
If your home has a metal roof, or it’s located in an area prone to higher heat fluctuations, this type is designed to withstand those conditions without breaking down. These ice and water shields are specially formulated with advanced polymers that maintain their protective properties even when exposed to temperatures up to 260°F.
Granular Surface Shield:
This roll of an ice and water shield is used to cover spots where the underlayment might be exposed temporarily or permanently. For this reason, this type offers additional durability and resistance. The granular surface provides enhanced slip resistance during installation and better UV protection, making it an excellent choice for longer periods of exposure.
How Ice and Water Shields Works
An ice and water shield isn’t just another layer of the roofing system — it’s an active defense system.
Adhesion for Superior Protection
The shield adheres directly to the wooden deck of your roof, creating a barrier that water can’t penetrate. Unlike traditional underlayment, it seals around nails and staples, blocking even the smallest entry points for water.
Battling Ice Dams
Wisconsin winters are notorious for ice dams, which are ridges of ice that form along your roof’s edge and trap melting snow. Without an ice and water shield, this trapped water can seep under shingles and into your home, causing expensive damage. The shield prevents that by stopping water in its tracks.
Where Are Ice And Water Shields Installed?
Unlike an underlayment, an ice and water shield is not installed on the entire roof deck. Instead, it is strategically placed along vulnerable areas of your roof. Certain areas of your roof are naturally more prone to leaks, and that’s where this shield truly shines.
Here are some areas where you should consider installing ice and water shields.
- Valleys: Where two roof slopes meet, creating a natural channel for water. Installing an ice and water shield along valleys is crucial as these areas can collect up to 80% of the roof’s water runoff during heavy storms, making them highly susceptible to leaks.
- Eaves: The edges of your roof, where ice dams are most likely to form. During winter months, these areas are particularly vulnerable as warm air from your attic can cause snow to melt and refreeze at the roof’s edge, potentially forcing water under your shingles.
- Around Chimneys and Skylights: These penetrations create weak points that need extra care.
Climate Considerations
In Wisconsin’s cold climate, an ice and water shield is not just recommended — it’s essential. Homes in regions with frequent freeze-thaw cycles or high rates of snowfall are especially vulnerable to leaks without this protective layer.
Why Is Having An Ice and Water Shield Important?
Living in Wisconsin means dealing with extreme weather conditions, and your roof is often the first line of defense. Adding an ice and water shield ensures your home stays protected, even when Mother Nature is testing its limits.
Prevent Expensive Repairs
Water damage isn’t just inconvenient — it’s expensive. A small leak caused by an ice dam or heavy rain can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and ruined interiors. An ice and water shield acts as a safeguard, stopping water before it becomes a problem.
Extend Roof Lifespan
Roofs are an investment, and you want yours to last as long as possible. By adding this layer of protection, you reduce the amount of wear and tear your roof deck receives, ultimately extending the life of your shingles and other roofing materials.
Peace of Mind in Harsh Conditions
There’s nothing worse than worrying about your roof when a winter storm rolls through. Ice and water shields provide homeowners with the peace of mind that comes with knowing their roof is equipped to handle whatever Wisconsin’s weather throws at it.
Protect Against Ice Dams
One of the biggest challenges Wisconsin homeowners face is the formation of ice dams. These occur when warm air from your home causes snow on the roof to melt and refreeze at the eaves, creating a ridge of ice. As the ice builds up, it traps melting snow behind it, forcing water to back up under shingles. This can cause leaks and damage to insulation.
Ice and water shields are specifically designed to counteract these risks. Installed along eaves and roof edges, it acts as a barrier, stopping water from backing up under the shingles and reaching the roof deck.
How Much Do Ice And Water Shields Cost?
The cost of ice and water shields will vary depending on the type and brand of shield you buy, along with the size of your roof. On average, the material can range in price from around $60 to $200 per roll, with each roll covering approximately 200 square feet.
Factors influencing the total cost include:
- Roof Size: Larger roofs will require more material, increasing the cost.
- Type of Shield: Granular surface or high temp ice and water shields may cost more than standard options, especially if you are going for a premier brand.
- Labor Costs: Professional installation typically adds to the overall expense, ranging from $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot, depending on your location and roof complexity.
Which Is The Best Ice and Water Shield For Your Roof?
Selecting the right brand of ice and water shield ensures optimal performance and durability, especially in Wisconsin’s extreme climate. Here are some trusted brands widely recognized in the roofing industry:
- Grace Ice & Water Shield®: Known for superior adhesion and flexibility
- GAF WeatherWatch®: Offers reliable protection with added fiberglass reinforcement
- IKO® GoldShield: A high-performance option for added durability and resistance
Replace Your Roof With The Expert Roofers In Wisconsin
Ice and water shields are one of the most important components of a roofing system. It acts as an invisible hero, protecting your home from leaks, ice dams, and water damage. From the valleys to the eaves of your roof, this underlayment is a small investment that pays off big when the weather gets rough.
If you are replacing your roofing system, ensure that you install a high-quality ice and water shield. At Prestige Roofing LLC, we have a team of roofing experts with years of experience in roof replacement. Allow us to install an ice and water shield from the country’s leading manufacturers. Contact us today at (920) 791-0414 to learn more.