- HEP Roofing
- Ice-and-water Shields

Ice-and-water Shields
Ice-and-water Shields | Roof Replacement | Roofing | Blaine
When the biting Blaine winters send snowmelt sneaking under shingles, HEP’s ice-and-water shield system steps in as an invisible guardian, sealing vulnerable eaves, valleys, and penetrations before moisture ever has a chance to reach the decking. Our certified crews roll out a self-adhering membrane that bonds tight even in frigid temps, then layer high-performance shingles on top—delivering a roof that shrugs off wind-driven rain, hail, and ice dams while still breathing freely. It’s the kind of protection you don’t notice until everyone else’s ceiling stains start showing up.
Whether you’re upgrading a storm-battered home or planning a proactive roof replacement, HEP makes the experience refreshingly simple. We offer on-the-spot drone inspections, clear photo reports, and flexible financing so you can choose the perfect shingle color instead of stressing over paperwork. Schedule a free estimate today and discover why Blaine homeowners trust the HEP Shield to keep their families dry and comfortable season after season.
FAQs
Why are ice-and-water shields especially important for roofs in Blaine?
Blaine’s climate brings heavy snowfall, frequent freeze-thaw cycles, and occasional wind-driven rain. These conditions create ice dams along roof edges, valleys, and around penetrations. Ice-and-water shields form a self-sealing waterproof barrier that stops melted snow or wind-blown rain from backing up under shingles and leaking into your home. Installing them greatly reduces the risk of interior water damage and mold, making them a smart investment for Blaine homeowners.
Where on my roof should ice-and-water shield be installed during a replacement?
Local building codes and best practices for Blaine call for ice-and-water underlayment to extend at least 24 inches inside the warm wall line at all eaves. We also install it in valleys, along rake edges prone to wind uplift, and around roof penetrations such as chimneys, skylights, pipe boots, and dormers. If your roof has a low slope (4:12 or less) or complex geometry, we may recommend covering the entire deck for maximum protection.
Does Minnesota building code require ice-and-water shield in Blaine?
Yes. The Minnesota Residential Code (R905.1.2) mandates an ice barrier that consists of at least two layers of underlayment cemented together or a self-adhering polymer-modified bitumen sheet (ice-and-water shield) extending 24 inches inside the interior wall line of the building. Our crews adhere strictly to this code and often exceed it to provide extra peace of mind.
How long does ice-and-water shield last, and will I need to replace it again?
Quality ice-and-water membranes are designed to last as long as your asphalt shingle roof—typically 20–30 years. They remain flexible and self-sealing through temperature extremes. When it’s time for your next full roof replacement, the old membrane is usually removed with the shingles so the decking can be inspected. At that point a new shield is applied to ensure continued protection.
Will adding ice-and-water shield increase the cost of my roof replacement?
Installing ice-and-water shield does add a small material and labor cost—generally about $50–$120 per 100 square feet (per ‘square’) of coverage, depending on brand and application area. However, the prevention of even a single leak can save thousands in drywall, insulation, and flooring repairs, so most Blaine homeowners find the upfront cost well worth the added security.
Can ice-and-water shield be installed over my existing shingles or roof deck without tearing off the old roof?
For optimal performance, the membrane must bond directly to clean, solid decking. Installing it over old shingles is not recommended and does not meet code. During a full roof replacement, we remove all existing roofing materials down to the deck, replace any damaged sheathing, and then apply the ice-and-water shield. This ensures a watertight seal and maintains your manufacturer’s warranty.