Is ice and water shield really necessary on Minnesota roofs?
Yes—Minnesota building code requires ice and water shield on residential roofs, especially to prevent damage from ice dams and wind-driven rain. But not all shields are created equal—and some installations cut corners.
Some Roofers Say You Need It. Others Say It’s Upselling. Who’s right?
At Wright at Home Roofing & Exteriors, we take a smarter approach: we use premium materials and honest installation practices to make sure your roof is protected for the long haul—not just checking boxes for compliance or patching up a hail-damaged roof.
In Minnesota, there’s no debate—ice and water shield is required by building code. But what most homeowners don’t realize is that the product quality, installation method, and re-roofing process all matter just as much as meeting the bare minimum code requirements.
What Is Ice and Water Shield, Really?
Ice and water shield is a self-adhering membrane installed under your shingles. It creates a watertight barrier in some of the most leak-prone areas of your roof, including:
- Roof eaves (where ice dams form)
- Valleys (where two roof slopes meet)
- Around chimneys, skylights, and vents
This shield prevents wind-driven rain and ice dam meltwater from seeping through your roof deck. Unlike regular underlayment, it self-seals around nails to stop leaks before they start.
Is It Really Required?
In Minnesota, the answer is simple: yes.
State building code mandates ice and water shield in certain roof zones on every residential roof. If your roofer says it’s optional or pitches it as an “upgrade,” it’s time to find someone who knows the law.
But here’s where things get more complex—especially on re-roofing jobs.
What Homeowners Don’t Know About Re-Roofing
When undergoing a roof replacement, the original ice and water shield is almost always fused to the wood decking. Removing it would require replacing the wood itself.
Minnesota building code (Section R908.3) allows roofers to install one additional layer of ice and water shield over the existing layer. But no more than that.
As Wright at Home Roofing & Exteriors President Addison Kaasa explains:
“If this is your second roof replacement, we can go over the old layer. But if it’s your third and there are already two layers stuck down, we either need to try removing it—which is nearly impossible—or cut out and replace the underlying decking so we can install a new single layer.”
Why does this matter? Because some roofers may simply slap a third layer on top without telling you, leaving you out of code and with unsightly bumps where the materials stack up.
And unfortunately, most cities don’t inspect for this. As Addison puts it:
“We could easily make the decision to put a third layer over the top, and the homeowner would be none the wiser. That’s why it’s so important to work with a contractor you trust.”
Cheap Product vs. Quality Shield—What’s the Difference?
Not all ice and water shield products are equal—some seal better, last longer, and perform more reliably in Minnesota’s climate.
Cheaper brands may fail to seal properly around nails or deteriorate faster. Worse, they may be chemically incompatible with your other roofing components—causing breakdown, staining, or material failure.
That’s why Wright at Home Roofing & Exteriors uses manufacturer-matched products, like CertainTeed WinterGuard® and Grace Vycor™ Ice & Water Shield®. These premium shields provide superior adhesion, durability, and chemical compatibility.
As Addison explains:
“The best advice I can give is to use the manufacturer’s recommended material. Stay away from the cheap, generic brands. The higher quality ones are self-sealing and built to last.”
So, Is Ice & Water Shield a Must-Have?
In Minnesota? Yes. By code and by common sense.
But the details matter:
- Use the right product for your roof system
- Ensure proper installation (especially during re-roofing)
- Work with a contractor who follows both the letter—and the spirit—of the code
Want to Be Sure Your Roof Is Built The Wright Way?
Our estimates include compliant ice & water shield, premium materials, and an honest explanation of what’s needed for your Minneapolis home. No shortcuts. No surprises.
Schedule Your Free Inspection Today
Frequently Asked Questions About Ice and Water Shield
Q: Is ice and water shield required in Minnesota?
A: Yes. Minnesota building code requires ice and water shield on residential roofs, particularly at eaves, valleys, and around penetrations. It helps prevent leaks caused by ice dams and wind-driven rain.
Q: Where should ice and water shield be installed on a roof?
A: It should be installed along the eaves, in roof valleys, and around features like chimneys, vents, and skylights—any area prone to leaks.
Q: Can you install new ice and water shield over an old layer?
A: Yes, but only one additional layer is allowed per Minnesota code. More than two layers could put you out of compliance.
Q: What’s the best ice and water shield for Minnesota homes?
A: Premium brands like CertainTeed WinterGuard® and Grace Vycor™ are trusted for strong adhesion and long-term durability in extreme weather.
