An ice dam can form on almost any roof after a substantial snowfall. The interior heat of the structure causes snow to melt and later freeze to form an ice dam along the eaves. As more snow melts, water flows down the pit of the roof, back up behind the ice dam, forces its way under the shingles, through the roof deck and into the structure.

Storms can also threaten the integrity of sloped roofs. Strong winds can lift roof coverings, allowing wind-driven rain to easily get underneath and penetrate the unprotected roof decks.

The effects of ice dams or wind-driven rain can range from stained walls and ceilings to seep water damage in multiple rooms. During a single year, these types of events can easily cost thousands of dollars in a family home, condominium, apartment building or commercial structure.

Unless the leakage problem is corrected, damage will continue to result. A water shield made of a membrane composed to waterproofing materials can be applied to the roof deck to correct leak problems and stop new ones from occurring. It can help extend the effective of the roof, since roofs generally first show their age by leaking, either from storm damage or around critical areas such as in valleys, around skylights or near protrusions.

The Grace Ice and Water Shield, for example, is made of an aggressive rubberized asphalt adhesive backed by a layer of high density, cross laminated polyethylene, backed by a foldless release paper that protects its adhesive quality. The membrane bonds tightly to the roof deck.

For more information about creating a self-sealing barrier that neither melting snow nor wind-driven rain can penetrate through or travel beneath, contact W. R. Grace & Co. at www.graceconstruction.com or call toll free 866-333-3726.