Even if you rely on a contractor’s expertise to maintain your roof, it is important to be a responsible homeowner and keep an eye out for problems. After all, a lot can go wrong between yearly inspections. Two parts of the roof that often get overlooked are soffits and fascias. These architectural elements do much more than simply add a finished look to your home. Soffits and fascias are located on the part of the roof that protrudes away from the side of your home. The fascia is the lining on the bottom edge of the roof (typically what you attach gutters to), and the soffit is the flat section underneath your roof. Knowing when to replace soffits and fascias can protect your roof from other costly repairs.
When to Replace Soffits and Fascias
Signs It’s Time for Replacement or Repair
Unfortunately, fascias and soffits don’t last forever. Just like the other parts of your roof, they are constantly being exposed to damaging wind, humidity, sun, rain, and critters. It is a good idea to get in the habit of inspecting your fascias and soffits twice a year. One easy way to remember to check them is to coordinate it with your gutter cleanings (which should also happen twice a year). You can even set a reminder in your phone or calendar to check your gutters in the spring and the fall. If you start to notice that your soffits and fascias don’t look quite as beautiful as they did on move-in day, it might be time for a replacement or a repair. Keep an eye out for signs of deterioration:
- Rotted wood
- Mold, algae, or fungus growth
- Chipped sections or chipped paint (paint can actually act as a seal to keep out moisture)
- Sagging sections
- Bite marks from rodents
- A missing board
- Cracks
Spotting these issues in only a few areas means you probably just need patch repairs. However, if the damage reaches a certain threshold, your roof contractor might recommend a new set of soffits and fascias, especially if they are made of wood (which are more susceptible to rotting than other materials, like vinyl). The price of the repairs or replacement will vary based on the severity of the issue and the materials you choose, so it is best to consult with your roofer to get an estimate. Always make sure you’re working with an insured contractor so that you aren’t responsible for property damage or on-the-job injuries.
The Importance of Soffits and Fascias
If you aren’t quite convinced that it’s important to keep your soffits and fascias in good condition, consider how crucial these elements are to the integrity of your roof. They prevent water from blowing into your house during a windy rainstorm, and they also keep out pests like bats, birds, and squirrels. Plus, they can disguise the ventilation for your attic (source). If you fail to keep your fascia and soffits in good shape, your gutters can also start to sag and break, making them almost completely useless. One last thing to keep in mind is how soffits and fascias protect the frame of your roof. If the wood frame is exposed to rain, it can begin to form mold, which can spread quickly and cause the wood to rot.
_____
Are your soffits and fascias in need of TLC? If you live in southwest Missouri, contact Taylor-Made Roofing for help. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information regarding when to replace soffits and fascias, please give us a call at 417-326-8778 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!