Replace faulty soffits and fascias to protect your investment
Your home is likely your most valuable asset and protecting that investment should be a top priority. Unfortunately, the fascias and soffits that overhang around your roofline take quite a beating from the elements.
Fascias are vertical boards that run around the roof edge while soffits are the horizontal underside surface. Both provide aesthetic appeal in finishing the home’s exterior look. More importantly, they protect your house from moisture, pests, and other hazards related to poor ventilation or exterior barrier issues. If your soffits or fascias become compromised, replacing them is crucial.
Signs you need replacement
Many homeowners don’t notice subtle signs of fascia and soffit deterioration at first. But over time, even minor damage accelerates causing expensive issues.
- Visible cracks, holes, or rotting sections
- Peeling paint or warped boards
- Pest infestations like wasps, ants, or birds
- Mold, mildew, or water stains
- Drooping or detached areas
If you spot any of these warning signs, it’s smart to schedule replacement to avoid headaches down the road.
Why proactive replacement is essential?
Reacting when you detect failing soffits or fascias is key to preventing cascading destruction. If left too long, water infiltrates the fascia boards and pool, leading to expensive repairs like roof leaks or internal structural damage. Pests nesting behind damaged soffits also invade attics or walls in short order. Even smaller issues like warped soffit vents impact ventilation efficiency. That leads to problems like ice dams or mold growth. Or peeling fascia paint that exposes boards to moisture and decay. Addressing minor flaws now prevents major headaches later.
Hiring soffit and fascia specialists
replacement fascias and soffits should usually be done professionally by experienced contractors. They have the skills and proper equipment to access tricky roof edges safely. They also know the optimal materials and installation methods per local building codes. When obtaining estimates, look for licensed companies that are fully insured. Ask about any warranty or guarantee they provide on workmanship. Review examples of previous soffit and fascia replacement projects. And be sure to check client reviews.
Common replacement materials
Vinyl provides durability, affordability, and low maintenance for many homes. Premium vinyl resists scratches, dents, rot, and moisture damage. It comes pre-formed in various vented and solid soffit panels with varying soffit color options. Wood also offers charm and is stained or painted. However, it requires more upkeep to look its best. Other common soffit and fascia options include aluminum, fiber cement, or engineered wood composites. Discuss your preferences, budget, and home style with your contractor.
What to expect during the project?
On project day, the crew will scaffold around problem areas to access fascia and soffit spots safely. They’ll pry off any loose, damaged, or deteriorated materials and discard them properly. Additionally, structural supports or roofline sections that have rotted will be replaced. Crews need to temporarily remove gutter sections or downspouts to install new soffit channels or vents before connecting everything back in place. The final step is installing and securing beautiful new fascia caps and soffit panels. Then it’s time to relax and admire your home’s gorgeous new roofline protection.
