As a homeowner, it’s important to understand the role that the soffit and fascia have on your roof and home. It’s helpful to be able to identify damage that requires immediate attention. The soffit and fascia serve two purposes for your home’s exterior: aesthetic and functional.

The soffit is basically the underside of your roof’s eaves, while the fascia is the board extending straight down from the roof’s edge. As these elements get on in years, they get damaged and need repair. Here are some signs to keep an eye out for that may indicate soffit or fascia issues.

Cracks or Chipped Paint

Paint on the soffit and fascia sometimes can develop chips and cracks over time, leading to both a functional and aesthetic problem. Cracks, if left unaddressed, will deepen and expand until leaks occur. This is why you should seal up cracks and paint over chips to ensure a watertight fit. 

Leaks in Gutters

If your gutters have started leaking, your soffit and fascia likely have water damage. When gutters leak, they expose the soffit and fascia to water, which can lead to freeze/thaw damage in the winter. Plus, flowing water can dislodge the soffit or fascia boards. 

Poor Attic Ventilation

If your attic isn’t properly ventilated and the attic air has become stagnant, your soffit and fascia could be the culprits. Soffits are usually ventilated to allow air to get into the attic and top floors of your home. When there is a clog or blockage in the soffit and fascia components due to dirt and debris, this leads to poor ventilation. You’ll need to have these components cleaned or replaced. 

Critter Infestations

One big role of soffit and fascia is to prevent pests from creating nests under the roof’s eaves. It’s important to have a professional carefully inspect the soffit and fascia when pests have infiltrated your home, with replacement often being necessary to ensure pests don’t get in again.

Rotting Wood

Wooden portions of the soffit and fascia will rot over time, especially true if you have constant leaks or moisture-control issues that expose the soffit and fascia to water on a daily basis. Rot causes many problems: it’s visible and ugly, bringing down the curb appeal of your home, plus it can weaken the soffit and fascia and emit a strong odor in extreme cases.

Asbestos

If you reside in an older house, the original builders could have used materials containing asbestos. If your soffit and fascia contain asbestos and they are disrupted by damage or remodeling work, you could be exposed to serious health threats.

Contact Hi-Tech Windows and Siding

If your soffit and fascia need repair, contact us today for a free estimate at 888-878-1715.