The Importance of Soffit & Fascia
Soffits and fascia boards are just as important as the windows, doors, and sidings of a home. Located on the exterior of a house, their primary role is to provide protection to the interior and to give a smooth appearance to the roofing system.
In order to improve the functionality of soffits and fascias, it is extremely important to have them properly installed and maintained.
Their main role is to help protect the walls and underside of the roof against damp and water damage as well as to give a smooth finish to the underside of the roof and rafters.
What is Soffit?
A soffit is the covering installed between the adjacent walls of a building and the outer edges of the roof. They seal and protect the rafter feet by preventing excess moisture and water penetration.
Modern homes have uPVC soffits that are hard-wearing and able to cope with excessive exposure to moisture. Older homes often have wooden soffits that give them a rustic feature; however, they tend to make a home more vulnerable to water damage.
Soffits should be chosen according to the climate and can be made from aluminum, wood, or vinyl, which has all the protective characteristics of vinyl siding.
One of the major functions of the soffit is ventilation. It maintains a steady airflow between the roof and the attic of your home. An attic needs to be well ventilated to prevent the build-up of moisture that causes mold to form.
The soffit also helps to release heat from the attic, especially during the hot summer months. In addition, it acts as a barrier to keep animals and insects out and, therefore, should be well-maintained, and any cracks or holes should be repaired immediately.
What is Fascia?
Fascia boards are mounted on the exposed edges of the roof rafters.
Most fascias today are made from high-grade uPVC as the traditional softwood boards tend to be susceptible to rot.
Fascias protect a home from the elements and at the same time, help to support the roof tiles. They also fulfill an aesthetic role as they cover exposed rafters, giving a more aesthetic appearance to a home.
Fascias are what holds the gutters in place, and they provide support for the bottom edge of the roof tiles or shingles. Because they are visible, they should be kept in good condition in order not to jeopardize the home’s curb appeal.
Why Hiring Professionals Matters?
Soffits and fascias are essential parts of your roofing system, which is why proper installation is paramount, both for the effectiveness and the safety of your roof.
Professional roofers are highly experienced at installing top quality soffits and fascias. DIY installation is not recommended as it is always advisable to leave the more technical home improvement jobs to professionals who are highly trained in the correct procedures for longer-lasting, more professional-looking results.