How to Install Ice and Water Shield

Installing self-adhering ice and water shield membrane at eaves, valleys, and penetrations to prevent water infiltration from ice dams and wind-driven rain.

Step-by-Step

1. 1

   Ensure the deck is clean and dry

   Ice and water shield bonds permanently to the deck. The deck must be clean, dry, and free of dust, frost, and debris. Install in temperatures above 40°F — the adhesive does not bond properly in cold weather without warming.

2. 2

   Start at the eave edge

   Position the roll at the eave, aligned with the drip edge top. The membrane should extend over the drip edge and down slightly, but not so far it will be visible after gutters are installed.

3. 3

   Peel and stick in sections

   Peel back 2–3 feet of the release film and press the membrane firmly to the deck. Work one section at a time — do not peel the entire roll before pressing. Once stuck, it cannot be repositioned without tearing.

4. 4

   Roll firm for adhesion

   Use a roller or push hard with your hands across every inch of the membrane. Pay special attention to edges and seams — lifted edges are where water infiltrates.

5. 5

   Extend past interior wall line

   The membrane must extend a minimum of 24 inches past the interior face of the exterior wall. In Climate Zone 6 and above or on low-slope portions, extend to 36–48 inches. Measure from the wall plate to verify.

6. 6

   Install in valleys

   Apply ice and water shield to the full length of every valley, centered on the valley line and extending at least 18 inches on each side. Smooth out all wrinkles — they hold water and stress the membrane.

7. 7

   Wrap penetrations

   Apply cut pieces of ice and water shield around every pipe, skylight curb, and chimney before flashing is installed. Cut the membrane and wrap it up and over the penetration like a boot.

8. 8

   Apply underlayment over the membrane

   Synthetic underlayment or felt is installed over the ice and water shield on the rest of the roof deck. It laps over the top edge of the membrane so water always sheds over each layer below.