If you have ever looked up the phrase soffit, roof fascia will accompany it and vice versa. Although the two work together, the purposes are different. So, what is a fascia board on a house? This article will give you all the ins and outs of roof fascia to prepare you for the upcoming winter.
Fascia vs Soffit
Soffit is the material on the underside part of the roof overhang. If you look up at your roof, you will see either vented soffit or solid soffit. The ventilation keeps the airflow moving between the roof and attic and helps to prevent moisture buildup.
The fascia board is the siding above the soffit. Again looking at the roof overhang, the fascia is the exposed board you see on the front and where the gutters are.
Why Roof Fascia Is Important
The roof fascia plays several roles, one being to protect the soffit from the elements. The fascia is also important because it supports the edge of the bottom row of tiles.
Your gutters are installed on the fascia, making it important they are in excellent condition to hold them up. If water or debris weakens the fascia, it may not support the gutters during heavy rainfall. This can cause water damage to your home’s interior, resulting in costly repairs.
Lastly, the fascia plays an aesthetic role. Because it is visible, maintenance will enhance the overall look of your home.
Types Of Roof Fascia
With many options to choose from, it is hard to assess which is kind is right for you. The most common fascia board materials include wood, aluminum, vinyl, and fibre cement.
Wood Fascia
Wood fascia is a great option for those who are looking for a customizable option. Cedar and redwood are popular among homeowners because they resist rot and moisture well. This is also an excellent option for those who enjoy changing the colour now and then.
Aluminum Fascia
Aluminum fascia is popular for its low maintenance and aesthetic appeal. This option provides a range of colours and styles to allow many customization to compliment your home. Aluminum fascia is also easy to install. Along with aluminum soffit, they will help reduce energy consumption by helping your heating and cooling systems run more efficiently. If you are looking for an environmentally friendly option, this is the one for you because aluminum is 100% recyclable.
Vinyl Fascia
Homeowners choose vinyl fascia for their ability to handle whatever weather or climate. Unlike other options that can rot over time or dent, vinyl is durable. If you prefer something that doesn’t require upkeep, vinyl is right for you. Known for its low maintenance, you won’t need to paint. There is no need to worry about paint fading or peeling over time, and the only maintenance required would be occasional cleaning.
Fibre Cement Fascia
This is a great option for those looking for something customizable because fibre cement fascia comes in a variety of colours and woodgrain textures. While known to be a more costly option, it is low maintenance and durable. Fibre cement does a magnificent job at resisting rot, fungus and does well under harsh UV rays. Similar to the vinyl fascia, fibre cement only requires periodic cleaning. You can either hire a professional cleaning service or power wash it yourself.
When To Repair Roof Fascia
Although most fascia options are low maintenance and durable, they will still need upkeep and replacement. It is important with older homes to check up on the fascia boards as they may deteriorate from rot or sun exposure. You can also check for cracks, discoloration, or splinters by walking around your home.
Because it protects your roof and home interior from moisture, it is important to check for damage. Repair work should be done early to save both time and money. If you have clogged gutters, ice dams, or improper shingle overhang, these are all key indicators of fascia board damage.
Preventing Fascia Board Damage
Although we can’t prevent everything, being proactive will help minimize damage and lengthen your fascia boards’ lifespan. One of the major ways to prevent repairing or replacing your fascia would be to keep it clean. Since your roof system is all interconnected, having clean gutters is key to preventing water damage. Ensure your gutters are in excellent condition and installed properly. You can purchase cleaning kits online, or you can call a professional gutter cleaning service if your roof is higher up.
And there you have it, everything you need to know about fascia boards. You now have a better idea of which fascia board is right for you. Second, we outlined how fascia boards play a role in the roof system to help you identify damage and finally, how cleaning and regular maintenance can help you be proactive to get the most out of their lifespan.
