As a homeowner, it is important to know the different parts of your roof and the function they serve. Understanding the importance of each part will help you in case something goes wrong and it needs repair. Two important pieces of your roof are the soffits and fascia.
While the soffits and fascia add to the visual aspects of your roof, they serve an essential role. They also help protect the exterior of your house and provide important ventilation to your attic. To help you better understand each of these pieces, we’re going to walk you through how you can identify them and what purpose they serve.
Soffits
By design, your roof likely extends past the walls of your home and creates an overhang. The underside of this overhang is finished with a material to cover it and is called a soffit. There are several options as far as the material used when installing a soffit. Wood and vinyl are the most commonly used materials while synthetic soffits are becoming more popular. Soffits serve three primary functions
What purpose do they serve?
The primary purpose of the soffit is to provide ventilation for your attic. As heat builds up inside your attic from the sun beating down and heat rising inside, it needs to be properly ventilated from your attic. Without the soffit, the excessive heat inside can cause your roofing system to fail.
While providing ventilation is an important role, soffits also protect the underside of your roof from the elements. They block rain, dust, animals, and other debris from reaching the inside of your home. This helps prevent rot and mold from forming which can lead to extensive damage to your entire roof.
Soffits provide a clean and stylish finish to the overhang of your roof. Without it, you would see the rafters that make up the underside of your roof. To best match your house, soffits come in a range of colors, material, and finishes. By coordinating with your house, the soffits will give it a refined look.
Fascia
Often confused with the soffits, the fascia board is the long board that runs along the lower edge of the roof. This is the board that runs vertical versus the horizontal soffits. Fascia is most commonly made of wood, but it can also be made from aluminum, vinyl, or plastic.
What purpose do they serve?
Fascia boards add a layer of protection from the outdoor elements to the edge of the roof. This not only includes water, but also birds, insects, and other critters from reaching the inside of your roof and house. Without it, you risk leaks inside your home and possible damage to your roof and attic.
Similar to the soffit, fascia adds an aesthetic finish to your house. Without the fascia, your roof would have an exposed edge with a rough look. Fascia can be made to match the outside of your home and create a unified look.
Call your local roofer.
Over time, as soffits and fascia are exposed to the elements, they will wear and need repair or replaced. If you notice any cracking, leaks, or signs of rot, you will want to call your local roofer right away before the damage spreads.
Craven Construction is your East Valley roofing contractor and is available to assess your damage. Our team is experienced with all types of roofing materials and homes of all sizes. Contact our office if you believe you have damage to your soffit or fascia. We will provide you with the best options and FREE estimate for all repairs needed.
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About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.