Your roof is made up of a number of interconnected parts that function together to protect your home from the elements. When all the components are healthy, they operate harmoniously with each other to keep the integrity of your roof intact. Fascia and soffits are among your roof’s necessary parts and they must be kept in good condition. Here’s how to maintain them and recognize when they need to be replaced or repaired.
What Are Fascia and Soffits?
Soffits are the surfaces directly under the eaves while fascia are the horizontal boards that run along the lower edge of the roof. While these components can enhance the aesthetic of your home, they’re far from just decorative. Fascia offer structural support to the gutter system and thereby help keep moisture out of your home. Soffits provide ventilation for the attic and also keep your home protected from unwelcome weather elements. Both soffits and fascia play a role in preventing pests from entering your home.
Lifespan and Maintenance of Soffits and Fascia
Most fascia and soffits are fabricated from plywood, aluminum or vinyl. When you clean out your gutters—you should do this once or twice a year—inspect your eavestroughs, soffits and fascia. Look for indications of warping, degradation or worn out caulking. Signs of pests—birds, squirrels or wasps—should also be noted and dealt with immediately. Aluminum and vinyl soffits and fascia need little maintenance beyond this inspection. Additionally, if you spot mould or mildew it’s best to remove it. Both aluminum and vinyl can last a couple of decades before needing to be replaced. Wood fascia and soffits, however, usually have a shorter lifespan and require more maintenance. They should be painted or stained every few years.
Signs Repair or Replacement May Be Needed
Your roof and its individual components—fascia, soffit, eavestrough, etc.—will show clear signs if repair is required. Look out for these indicators in your Calgary home and if you spot them, call us immediately at Onit Roofing & Exteriors.
Droopy gutters
Leaky gutters
Ice damming
Frost in the attic
Interior water damage
Pest infestation
Wood deterioration
Exterior Renovator Experts You Can Count On
Onit Roofing & Exteriors’ commitment to personal service and quality products makes us a company trusted by homeowners throughout Calgary and surrounding areas. We’ve been serving the community for seven years and are always available for emergency repairs. Contact us today for a free estimate or keep our number handy for when you need us.