In a nutshell, a leak barrier is a product that works to prevent leaks caused by ice dams and wind-driven rain. An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms on the edge of a roof — preventing snow from draining from the roof when it melts. Wind-driven rain is rain that blows horizontally, which can find its way in-between shingles.
As you might imagine, it’s best to avoid both of these issues, and this is where leak barriers come into play.
WHERE SHOULD LEAK BARRIERS BE INSTALLED?
Here is a list of the most at-risk points of a roof that can benefit from leak barriers:
- Rakes
- Eaves
- Around the chimney
- Valleys, which are the places where two angles of a roofline meet
- Anywhere fasteners are implemented
- The perimeter edges of roofing
- Any low slopes on the roof, because run-off can be more slow in these areas
- In some cases, it might be good to consider placing leak barriers on your entire roof — depending on things like climate and overall roof slope; since Wisconsin winters can be brutal, a more extensive leak barrier might be a good option, so talk with your roofing contractor more about it
At Legacy Exteriors, the most popular roofing brand we install is GAF, and they offer two leak barrier options. Here’s a quick overview of each product, along with the top benefits of each. It’s important to note that, even if your roofing contractor isn’t installing a GAF roof, they should be using one of these products or something of similar quality to ensure your new roofing protects your home as best as possible.
StormGuard® Film-Surfaced Leak Barrier
This leak barrier option offers self-sealing protection that can be applied to any vulnerable areas (like the ones mentioned above) of asphalt and metal roofing. Provides excellent protection against ice dams and wind-driven rain.
FEATURES & BENEFITS
Leak Protection
StormGuard helps keep ice and water out of vulnerable roofing areas.
A Patterned Synthetic Surface
This feature improves “walkability” for roofing contractors in both wet and dry conditions.
Versatility
Made from a high-temperature compound that’s designed for use with a variety of roofing styles, as well as most metal roofs and asphalt roofs.
Warranty
This product is eligible for Lifetime Ltd. Warranty when used on Lifetime Shingle roofs, and it’s an eligible component of GAF residential enhanced warranties. In addition, it’s also covered by up to a 10-year ltd. warranty when used with other approved non-asphaltic roof coverings. Conditions apply.
WeatherWatch®Ice & Water Leak Barrier
A WeatherWatch Mineral-surfaced Leak Barrier works by securing a barrier at the most vulnerable areas of your asphalt roofing. This leak barrier helps prevent leaks due to water back up in gutters, as well as from wind-driven rain and ice dams.
Although WeatherWatch performs the same function as StormGuard, there are some differences — most notable are the warranty, as well as the fact that this product is solely for asphalt roofing.
FEATURES & BENEFITS
Leak Protection
WeatherWatch helps keep water and ice out of the vulnerable areas of asphalt roofing.
GAF’s Traditional Mineral Surface
Only compatible with asphalt shingle roof systems.
Reduce Headaches
Diminishes the risk of interior wall and ceiling staining from leaks.
Warranty
WeatherWatch Mineral-Surfaced Leak Barrier is a key component of GAF’s Lifetime Roofing System — which is eligible for Lifetime Limited Warranty when used with Lifetime Shingle Roofs, and it is an eligible component of GAF residential enhanced warranties.
Get in Touch Anytime …
Whether you’re looking for a complimentary roof inspection, or simply have some questions about your roofing, feel free to contact Legacy Exteriors anytime. We’re always happy to help!
