What is Grace Ice and Water Shield?
What it is
The product is a sheet of rubberized asphalt adhesive bonded to a polyethylene film, with a release liner on the back. It sticks to the roof deck, seals around nails driven through it, and protects against water from ice dams and wind-driven rain. Its name became the generic term, so many people say ice and water shield for any brand of self-adhered membrane.
Who makes it now
The Grace line passed through GCP Applied Technologies, which was acquired by Saint-Gobain, and the products are now marketed alongside CertainTeed, a Saint-Gobain company. You will still see the Grace name on the rolls.
The two main versions
- Standard: for use under shingles and other coverings that do not run especially hot.
- HT (high temperature): for metal roofs and other hot applications, where a standard membrane could soften.
How it compares with other membranes
Most shingle manufacturers make their own leak barriers, and their enhanced system warranties often count only their own brand as a qualifying accessory. That does not make one membrane better in the valley, but it can matter for warranty coverage. Look for ASTM D1970 compliance, the right temperature rating, the exposure limit and the surface type, then match the product to the roof system. More in roofing warranties explained and ice and water shield in Georgia.