It's time for us to replace the roof on our raised ranch. We live in snow country, and the roofer is talking about putting 8inches of "ice and snow guard" around the edges of the roof. He explained this is a layer of extra strenght tar paper to prevent ice and storm damage. Do I need this? The shigles apparently go over it.

They plan to use GAF Timberline 30yr shingles. Is this a good brand? There is a 40yr and an ULTRA "lifetime" shingle from GAF Timberline that I was told could double the price. Any thoughts?

PS... The previous owners must have used a cheap shingle, as they claimed it was "new" 8yrs ago when we bought the house. How time flies!

Thanks for your replies!

 

I think your roofer meant 8' of Ice & Water Shield. It comes in 3' rolls and has a 3 1/2 \' sidelap, so 3 courses gives about 8' of coverage. Code minimums are probably 24" inside the warm wall (interior drywall) in your area. If you have a big eave overhang, youuse more Ice & Water Shield to reach this point. Your roofer most likely knows the right amount to use for your house in your area.
Jim