If ice and water shield underlayment fits your needs, you need to decide which one is best for you. Our two major choices are our HydroShield Self-Adhering Ice and Water Shield Underlayment or CertainTeed's Grace Vycor Ice & Water Shield Roof Underlayment.
To help you choose which underlayment is best for you, we have compiled a comparison of the two.
Note: This comparison refers to the standard versions, not the HT (High Temperature) underlayments.
Installation: Which Ice & Water Shield Is Easier to Apply?
Both underlayments are self-adhering. They both adhere to the surface without the use of fasteners. The ice and water shield for roofing provides excellent watertight protection. The Grace underlayment offers a more aggressive grip than HydroShield. If you attempt to remove it, it can damage the surface. Fortunately, you can install it over the old GCP underlayment.
The HydroShield Ice and Water Shield can be peeled up or repositioned during installation. They both feature a split back liner that peels off after laying out. Grace uses a dual-release liner with RIPCORD®, a built-in string that lets you peel one side at a time for precision placement.
Material Composition: What Are Grace and HydroShield Made Of?
Grace uses a 100% rubberized asphalt adhesive bonded to a durable, cross-laminated polyethylene film. It also features a slip-resistant surface to provide additional safety for applicators.
HydroShield underlayment is composed of an asphalt fiberglass-reinforced membrane to deliver thermal stability for superior execution. A sand-based surface provides excellent tear resistance and can be used for all-season performances.
HydroShield Ice and Water Shield underlayment measures approximately 57 millimeters in thickness, while Grace is around 40 millimeters. Thickness alone does not determine product quality, but it can influence durability, performance, puncture resistance, and how well the underlayment stands up to extreme weather conditions. A thicker membrane offers added strength, while a thinner profile can provide easier handling during installation.
UV Exposure Limits: How Long Can Each Underlayment Be Exposed?
The UV exposure limit is the number of days the underlayment can face exposure to the sun before the final roofing material is installed. The Grace Ice and Water Shield can face exposure for a maximum of 90 days, whereas HydroShield has a UV exposure limit of 60 days.
A longer UV rating can provide added scheduling flexibility for contractors, particularly on complex projects or in cases where weather delays occur. However, exceeding the recommended limit for any product may lead to degradation, impacting adhesion and long-term performance. For this reason, the best practice is to install roofing materials as soon as possible after the underlayment is applied.
Temperature Tolerance: Which Underlayment Handles Extreme Conditions Better?
The Ice and Water Shield underlayment from HydroShield can be stored in temperatures up to 104 ℉. Its service temperature ranges from -40℉ to 200℉. The Grace Vycor Ice & Water Shield has a standard service temperature range of -20℉ to 200℉. It is also recommended to be installed when the air, roof deck, and membrane are at temperatures of 40℉. It can be stored in dry conditions between 40℉ and 90℉.
Price Comparison: Is Grace Worth the Premium Over HydroShield?
Because the product has a long track record of reliability from a widely known brand, Grace offers their product for a premium price ranging from $129 to $280, depending on the roll size. This higher cost reflects its long-standing reputation in the industry and proven track record of reliability.
HydroShield, on the other hand, is a more budget-friendly option, typically priced between $66 and $110. At nearly half the cost of Grace, it offers a more economical solution for projects where affordability is a priority.
At Home Improvement Supply, these products are often available at even more affordable prices during seasonal promotions. By subscribing to our promotional emails, you'll be the first to know about special offers and discounts, helping you save money on your upcoming projects.
Warranty Coverage: What Protection Do You Get with Grace vs. HydroShield?
CertainTeed covers its Grace Self-Adhering Ice and Water Shield Roof Underlayment with its SureStart Warranty. They will cover the reasonable cost to repair or replace, at their option, any waterproofing underlayment material proven to be defective during the first five (5) years following installation. After 5 years, they will pay a percentage based on the remaining months in the 25-year (or 50-year, if the roofing warranty applies). Hydroshield is protected by the Henry warranty, which means we will replace at no charge any product proven to have a material defect within 12 months of purchase.
Choosing between Grace and HydroShield Ice & Water Shield underlayments comes down to your priorities, whether that's long-term durability, ease of installation, UV exposure tolerance, or budget. Grace Vycor offers unmatched adhesion strength, a trusted reputation, and extended exposure time, making it ideal for projects requiring maximum protection and reliability. On the other hand, HydroShield delivers a cost-effective, installer-friendly solution with flexible application and solid performance. Both underlayments serve a critical role in protecting your roof from moisture damage, so selecting the right one ensures your investment stands strong against the elements for years to come.