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Ice and Water Shield

The self-adhering waterproof membrane installed beneath shingles at the roof’s most vulnerable areas — one of the most important components in any Colorado roof system and a consistently missed code upgrade item in insurance estimates on older homes.

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What Ice and Water Shield Is

Ice and water shield is a self-adhering waterproof membrane installed directly over the roof decking before shingles are applied.

Unlike standard underlayment, which is mechanically fastened and relies on overlapping seams, ice and water shield bonds directly to the deck and creates a continuous waterproof barrier.

It protects against:

  • Ice dam water backup
  • Wind-driven rain infiltration
  • Water intrusion at valleys and penetrations

In Colorado’s climate, it is one of the most important roof system components.

How Ice and Water Shield Works

Full Adhesion

The membrane bonds directly to the roof deck, eliminating gaps where water can enter under pressure.

Self-Sealing Fasteners

The material seals around nails and fasteners, preventing water intrusion through penetration points.

This combination allows it to stop water even when it is forced uphill beneath shingles — something standard underlayment cannot do.

Where It Is Installed

  • Eaves — primary protection against ice dam backup
  • Valleys — high-volume water flow areas
  • Penetrations — around chimneys, skylights, and vents
  • Rake edges — in high-wind conditions
  • Low-slope sections — where drainage is slower

It is not typically installed across the entire roof — only at vulnerable areas.

Colorado Code Requirements

Colorado Springs (PPRBD / 2021 IRC)

  • Required at eaves for properties above 7,000 ft
  • Must extend 24 inches inside the interior wall line
  • Required in valleys regardless of elevation
  • Required at certain penetrations

Pueblo (PRBD / 2009 IBC)

Requirements may differ — verify with local jurisdiction.

Below 7,000 Feet

Not always required — but still best practice in Colorado’s climate.

Why It Is Missed in Insurance Estimates

  • Older roofs did not include it
  • Adjusters fail to verify elevation
  • Combined into generic underlayment line items
  • Coverage area calculated incorrectly

This makes it one of the most common supplement opportunities.

Ice and Water Shield in the Insurance Estimate

A complete estimate should include separate line items for:

  • Eave coverage (correct depth calculation)
  • Valley coverage (linear measurement)
  • Penetration protection
  • Standard underlayment for remaining areas

If your estimate shows only one underlayment line item, it likely underprices this component.

Code Upgrade Coverage Argument

When required by code, ice and water shield qualifies under Code Upgrade Coverage and Law and Ordinance Coverage.

The argument is straightforward:

  • The existing roof did not include it
  • Current code requires it
  • The new roof must meet current code
  • The cost is therefore covered

This is one of the most defensible upgrade items in Colorado roof claims.

Common Questions

Should ice and water shield be in valleys?

Yes — it is standard practice and often required.

How do I know if I have it?

It may be visible from the attic or confirmed during inspection.

Is it more expensive than underlayment?

Yes — typically 3–5× more, which is why proper estimate pricing matters.

Can I add it if not required by code?

Yes — but it may be an out-of-pocket upgrade.

How Claim Advocacy Helps

  • Elevation verification — determining code applicability
  • Coverage calculation — ensuring correct installation areas
  • Existing roof analysis — documenting absence
  • Code citation — supporting upgrade inclusion
  • Pricing validation — correcting underpriced estimates

Ice and water shield is one of the most important — and most commonly under-scoped — components in a Colorado roof replacement. Verifying its inclusion and correct pricing can significantly impact your final insurance settlement and long-term roof performance.

📞 (719) 210-8699
📧 gerald@winik.io

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