WHAT ARE SOFFITS?

There is often overhang from the roof which creates a section of material that is not connected to the house. The undersides of this roofing overhang are known as soffits which literally means “something fixed underneath.”

The soffits of the home are quite important and work to maintain the outside and inside health of the structure. Here are some of the following functions of soffits:

 

  • Ventilation. Heat rises, and when the sun is beating down on your home, much of that sweltering air gathers in the attic. The soffits, if well constructed, are perforated and help with facilitating air circulation.
  • Pest control. Because of perforation, small pests such as spiders and wasps like to nest up in the soffits and venture into the attic. However, a well-crafted soffit can work to prevent this and keep those creepy crawlers and wasps nests away from your home.
  • Damage prevention. Soffits help keep moisture out of this crucial area and work to prevent mold, wood rot and other problems.
  • Aesthetics. Of course, since soffits are on the exterior of the structure to be seen by all, they should be appealing to the eye. There are a lot of ways to make your soffits stand out and dimension to your home.

 

WHAT IS FASCIA?

Fascia is not the underside of the overhanging roof, but the part all around the outside. It is the part flush with the rain gutters and used to create a barrier between the edge of the roof and the outside. Similar to the soffits, fascia works to prevent damage to the roof and also is important to the aesthetics of the exterior.

WHAT ARE THE MATERIALS USED?

With regards to soffit and fascia materials, there are many to choose from. Some of the most common are:

  • Steel. Steel certainly lends strength, but can often heat up and produce shine. Depending on the need, steel may be a good option.
  • Fibre Cement. Fibre cement is a composite material that is made up of sand, cement and cellulose fibers. It is often used in roofing for its durability.
  • Wood. Wooden soffits or fascia boards can add aesthetic flair to the outside of your home. Depending on how they are treated, they can be slightly more susceptible to wear than some other materials.
  • Vinyl. Vinyl is composed of two simple building blocks: chlorine, based on common salt, and ethylene, from crude oil. Both are combined to form one of the most versatile and strong plastics used today.
  • Aluminum. Aluminum, like steel, provides strength and durability, though it is significantly more lightweight.
  • UPVC. Polyvinyl chloride is the world’s third-most widely produced synthetic plastic polymer. The U before UPVC simply stands for un-plasticized.

All materials have their strengths, and if you are considering new soffits or fascia, talk to a home exterior remodel expert.

WHEN IS IT TIME FOR REPAIR?

Many people don’t often think about these crucial components of the home, and necessary repair or replacement is neglected. If you are experiencing any of the following, it may be time for a full soffit and fascia repair:

  • Cracks and flaking paint
  • Evidence of pests
  • Suspected Asbestos
  • Water in the roof void
  • Lack of ventilation

When it comes to the exterior of your home, especially the soffits and fascia, it is important to choose quality materials and seek professional installation. Home repairs stemming from damaged or worn soffits and fascia can quickly arise and get out of hand. At Burbach exteriors, we are experts in all things home exterior, especially soffits and fascia. We are here to offer our expertise, and you can contact us with any questions.