How Do You Repair Soffit and Fascia?

What is the purpose of the soffit and fascia board? 

First, let’s talk about where the soffit and fascia board are located!  The soffit is what you see under the roofing eaves. It is a big part of regulating the temperature inside your home by helping it breathe. The soffit draws in the cool, dry air and pulls out the hot, moist air. 

The fascia board goes around the exterior edge of the roof and overhang, providing an attractive, decorative touch. The fascia board gives the roof a finished look and is where the gutter runs are installed. 

If there is any damaged or missing soffit or fascia board, repairs are important to the well-being of the roof and the structure. What can happen if soffit or fascia board repairs aren’t done? 

Without the soffit, the rafters and sheathing would be exposed to the elements, putting them at risk of developing mold and wood rot. , The fascia board is also exposed to the elements 24/7/365 and works along with the soffit protecting the rafters and sheathing. In addition, soffit and fascia board repairs will keep small critters, insects, and pests from nesting in the attic. Once they are in the attic and build nests, they gnaw the wiring and wood, eating their way into your home. To recap the importance of soffit and fascia board repair: 

• They are the first line of defense against the elements and more
• They minimize risking structural damage by the elements
• They are the structural support for the gutter runs
• They prevent mold, water damage, and wood rot
• They improve attic ventilation 
• They keep moisture out of the attic
• They are the finishing touch to the roofing

What kind of wood is used for the fascia board?

Several types of wood can be used for building the fascia board, including: 

• Cedar
• Cypress
• Fir
• Pine
• Redwood
• Spruce

Most roofing contractors prefer and recommend cedar, cypress, or redwood for the fascia boards. They are the most expensive option, but they are the most resistant, making fascia board repairs rare. 

How much does it cost to have the fascia board repaired or replaced?

This will depend on a few factors, starting with the type of wood the fascia board is made with. The amount of damage will have an impact on the cost of fascia board repairs or replacement. 

Can you replace the fascia without replacing the soffit?

The fascia and soffit are both important. While you could replace the soffit without having any fascia, it isn’t recommended. If only the soffit needs to be replaced, the fascia board will have to be removed first but should be returned once the soffit is installed. 

Which is installed first, the fascia or the soffit?

The soffit is installed first, attaching to the eaves of the roof, and then the fascia, as the outer edge covering of the eaves, is installed next. The fascia’s top edge is kept in place with the under sill trim or behind drip-edge or flashing.

How do you fix rotting fascia?

If the fascia is showing any of the following, you should either have the fascia board repaired or replaced: 

• Moisture damage
• Algae, fungus or mold 
• Cracking 
• Critter or insect damage
• Bowed or holes 

If fascia board repairs is possible, you can either call your roofing contractor or complete this yourself with the following steps

1. Inspect the fascia all around the house
2. Remove the drip edge and gutters 
3. Remove the damaged existing fascia board
4. Measure the replacement boards, measure again, then make the cuts
5. Cover the seams where the boards meet with waterproof caulk or sealant
6. Paint the new fascia board to match the existing, or repaint all of the fascia
7. Install the drip edges and gutters

In Conclusion

How often should soffit and fascia board repairs need to be done?  As a homeowner, inspect your roofing and siding every month and after any significant weather event. If you notice any of the signs we’ve mentioned, make the soffit or fascia board repairs needed as quickly as possible. 

The longer they are damaged, the more chances of water intrusion as well as the invasion of critters and insects. In addition, putting the roof and entire home at risk of damage, damaged soffit or fascia can have an impact on the appearance and curb appeal of your home. 

You can either do soffit or fascia repairs or replacements yourself. Make sure you have a helper and wear the appropriate PPE while doing the job. Or be safe and hire a professional roofer to do the job. This will give you some guarantee and warranty to fall back on if there are problems in the future. For the best fascia board repair in Canton, GA, call our team at 770-735-4433 now!