What ice barrier means
An ice barrier is a self-adhering rubberized membrane, or doubled underlayment, run up from the eaves. It seals around nails so water backed up by an ice dam cannot get into the house.
Also called ice and water shield, ice and water membrane.
Where it matters on a roofing job
Where the local code calls for it, it is not optional and inspectors check it at the eaves. Many roofers also use it in valleys and around chimneys and skylights. Price it by the roll, and measure how far up the roof it has to go from the wall line.
What the model code says
- Where ice damming is a known problem, an ice barrier is required under asphalt shingles, metal shingles, slate and wood shingles and shakes. (IRC 2021, Chapter 9)
- It runs from the lowest roof edge to at least 24 inches inside the exterior wall line. (IRC 2021, Chapter 9)
Check which code edition your building department enforces for ice barrier before you quote.
What it costs
Jobs that involve ice barrier are priced in the roof replacement cost guide: about $9,350 typical, usually $5,800 to $13,000. The guide shows its sources and what moves the price. The roofing materials calculator prices a job line by line.
Work it out
- Free calculator: Roofing materials calculator
- Cost guide: Roof replacement cost
- Licensing: Roofing license rules by state
- Tools, templates and guides: Free roofing resources
Sources: 2021 International Residential Code, Chapter 9, Roof Assemblies (ICC). Checked October 9, 2026.