Roof Anatomy
What is Ice and Water Shield?
Roofing Glossary · Roof Anatomy
Definition
A self-adhering, waterproof membrane installed on the roof deck in vulnerable areas — typically the first three feet from the eave, in valleys, around penetrations, and at all low-slope sections. It seals around nails to prevent water from backing up under shingles due to ice dam formation or wind-driven rain. Required by code in most cold-climate states including New England, New York, and Pennsylvania.
Related Roofing Terms
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UnderlaymentA water-resistant or waterproof barrier material installed directly over the roof decking and beneat...
→Ice DamA ridge of ice that forms at the eave of a roof when heat from the interior melts snow on the warmer...
→EaveThe lower edge of a roof that overhangs beyond the exterior wall of a building. Eaves direct rainwat...
→ValleyThe internal angle formed where two sloping roof sections meet, creating a V-shaped channel that dir...
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