Your homeโs roofing system is complex. There are several roofing materials needed to ensure your home is protected from the outside world, including soffit and fascia. Like most other exterior home materials, soffits and fascia deteriorate over time if they are not well-maintained. Replacing old soffit and fascia is typically easier and more affordable in the long run than attempting a repair, which is why itโs important to know the signs of when itโs time for replacement.
What are fascia and soffit?
Fascia boards and soffit meet at the edge of your roof to provide an enclosed space. Together, they work at a 90ยฐ angle. The fascia board attaches the eavestrough to the roof edge and faces outward while the soffit connects to the edge on the underside and attaches to the wall of your home.
What are the purposes of fascia and soffit?
The primary purposes of soffit and fascia are to keep water, debris and pests out of your home, but these materials also give your home a more finished look. Since they protect your roof and your home, theyโre an essential part of your roof system.
Soffit protects the rafters and trusses of your home from water damage so your attic and belongings stay dry year-round. Itโs important to replace soffit as soon as you notice any wear and tear because they stop mold and mildew from growing and compromising the health of those in your home.
Fascia stops water from entering your attic at the roofโs edge and reinforces the structure of your entire roofing system. Fascia also maintains the eavestroughs attached to your home, which helps direct water away from your home and off your roof. If you have a tiled or slate roof, fascia helps keep your tiles or slates aligned as well.
When should you replace soffits and fascia?
Soffit and fascia do not last forever, so repairing or replacing them is inevitable. An ideal time for soffit and fascia replacement is during a new roof installation, roof repair or roof replacement. However, if the wear and tear is severe, you should replace them at the first sight of damage. Here are some common signs that itโs time to replace soffit and fascia:
Cracks and Flaking Paint
Once the paint on your fascia begins to peel, it creates an opening for water. Since most fascia is made of wood, this can also lead to wood rot that can spread into your rafters and trusses. Cracks and flaking paint also compromise the aesthetic look of your home.
Pests
Bugs and rodents can harm your roofing system and overall home structure very quickly. Soffits and fascia are designed to keep pets out of your roof and attic, but if youโre noticing an infestation of bugs or damage from mice and rats, it could be a sign you need fascia or soffit repair or replacement.
Water Buildup
Water causes serious damage when it goes unnoticed. Whether it creates mold or rot, you could be left needing other roofing services or costly repairs. If youโre noticing a buildup of water in your roof void, it could be a sign that your soffit and fascia are letting in leaks.
Lack of Ventilation
Soffit and fascia are designed to provide ventilation to attics and the surrounding areas. If you notice a lack of ventilation throughout your home, your soffit and fascia could be blocked, damaged or missing altogether.
Overdue for soffit and fascia replacement?
At White Oak Construction, we have over four decades of experience handling roofing projects, including soffit and fascia repair and replacement, across the Greater Indianapolis area and beyond. As trusted soffit and fascia contractors, we can fix your roofing system so you have better protection from the elements and boosted curb appeal. Contact us today to get a free estimate!