Worn-out soffits and fascias can cause a range of issues. Find out when it's time to replace them.
Soffits and fascias are an often misunderstood part of a house's structure. To many, they're just a couple of odd-looking words you see on flyers and the sides of vans. In fact, they play a critical role in shielding your home from the worst of the Great British Weather.
Despite the defences they provide, repelling water and pests from under the eaves, we suspect most people couldn't tell you the difference – or when it's time to get them replaced.
But soffits and fascias aren't just about redirecting rainwater and preventing leaks. They also allow air to circulate between the roof and the eaves, preventing the unwanted build-up of heat, condensation and mould.
Even more than that, new soffits and fascias can seriously boost your property's kerb appeal. They're available in modern and traditional styles, firming up the lines of your building and blending in with your style.
Too often, however, people neglect to properly care for these unsung heroes of the rooflines. It's up there with cleaning the oven as a job that forever falls to the bottom of your to-do list.
Nevertheless, regular maintenance is essential to avoid damage to the soffit and fascia that can cause leaks, mould and pest infestations.
We hope you never need to get your soffits and fascias replaced. But if you do,
give us a call. We use top-quality materials for a job that's easy on the eye and tough on the elements.
But first, what are the differences between the two?
What are the differences between soffits and fascias?
The fascia is the vertical band or board that runs along the lower edge of the roofline directly below the eaves.
Its primary function is to provide a smooth, level surface for gutters to attach to. It also protects any underlying roof components.
Soffits, by contrast, are the exposed surface covering the underside of the roof's overhang or the underside of the eaves. They're typically found between the exterior wall and the roofline.
They're often treated as a single unit. However, one distinction is important when you come to repair, replace or maintain your soffits and fascias. Soffits are vented, allowing air to circulate, whereas fascias aren't. Knowing the difference can help you identify the source of the problem.
Six signs you should replace your soffits and fascias
1. Visible damage
This is the number one sign that your soffits and fascias need replacing.
Cracks, splits, holes, discolourations, water marks, rotting wood: all are telltale signs that it's time to
call the installer.
Gaps in the material are especially important to deal with because they stop the soffits and fascias from shielding your home from the rain. Putting off the problem will only make it worse. Don't leave your home exposed.
2. Damaged siding
Are the sidings below the soffit looking rotten? Is the paint peeling? This could be due to water damage caused by a damaged fascia. The corners of the fascia where the gutters meet are especially prone to leaks.
If the paint on the soffit itself is bubbling or cracking, you could be looking at a leaking roof. Either way, it's time to consider a fresh set of soffits and fascias.
3. Leaking or unsupported gutters
Leaking or unsupported gutters can damage both the soffit and the fascia. Leaks usually occur in the corners where two pieces of gutter meet and the sealant wears out.
Damage can also be caused if your gutters pull away from the fascia board and away from the house. This is typically caused by clogged downspouts overweighing the gutters. If you see this, check the soffit for damage.
4. Ventilation
Soffits are there to ventilate. If you have plywood soffits, poor ventilation can lead the soffits and even the roof deck to delaminate. This is a sure sign it's time for an upgrade.
6. Pest infestation
If you hear scratching in the attic, you may be suffering from a pest infestation. This could be caused by a hole in the soffit and fascia. Whatever measures you take to deal with the infestation, you should also replace the soffits and fascias, or at the very least plug the hole.
7. Water spots
If you see large brown spots or rusty nails on your soffits and fascia, you probably have a leaking roof. As well as fixing the leak, you should replace the affected areas. Otherwise, you're putting your home at risk of structural damage, mould growth and pest infestation.
If any of these signs apply to you, make sure to address them sooner rather than later. Leaving the problems unaddressed can lead them to snowball, leaving your home inadequately protected from the elements.
A modern set of soffits and fascias doesn't just offer protection, though. It can also improve the look of your home – and on the housing market, looks equal money.
But even if kerb appeal isn't your top consideration, good-quality soffits and fascias will help reduce the amount of time you spend cleaning and the amount of money you spend in the long run.
Replacing your soffits and fascias can be a great investment. But how can you avoid getting to the stage where they need replacing in the first place?
How to avoid replacing your soffits and fascias
As with so many things in life, maintenance is the answer.
This means regularly inspecting the soffits, fascia and adjoining walls for damage. It means cleaning out the gutters and ensuring they're properly aligned. It means trimming tree branches away from the roof line and fascia boards (they can make a real mess in a storm!) And it means gently power-washing your soffits and fascias at least once a year.
We hope you never need
replacement soffits and fascias. But if you do, give us a call. At Calder Windows, we use top-quality materials for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
Get in touch today for a quick, competitive quote.
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