Did you know that a well-maintained roof can last for decades? Alternatively, if you don't take care of your roof, it will need to be replaced much sooner at a cost that can skyrocket to the tens of thousands. Unfortunately, however, not many Canadian homeowners know what to look for. There are little-known structural elements, called the soffit and fascia, that play a massive role in the health of your roof. Keep reading to learn more about what these are, how they protect your roof, and when to replace the roof fascia and soffit.
What Is a Roof Soffit and Fascia And What Is Their Function?
If you've been researching roof replacement, you have probably come across the terms "roof soffit" or "fascia," and you would not be alone in not knowing what they are and what they do for your roof. The soffit is usually made of wood or synthetic materials like composite and is found at the border of your home's siding and roof at a 90-degree angle. The fascia sits horizontally on the outside to give your roof a finished appearance. These critical elements work together to prevent pests and precipitation from entering your attic or crawlspace. The soffit also maintains airflow to control humidity and improve ventilation. Now that you know what a soffit and roof fascia is, it's time to examine the clues that alert you to when they need to be replaced.
Signs of Damage
There are signs of roof fascia and soffit damage visible to the naked eye. These may include:
Paint that is peeling or cracked
Broken or missing pieces to the soffit or fascia
You may think that paint damage only affects the appearance, but it protects the soffit and fascia from the elements. When the paint barrier is compromised, you can be left with a weakened structure. It is also a sign that moisture may be an issue.
You're Experiencing Pest Infestations
If you hear scuttling in your attic at night and suspect you may have a pest problem, there is a good chance your soffit or fascia is damaged, creating an entry point for unwanted critters. If this is a recurring problem, and the rest of your home is secured, your roof should be a primary place of investigation.
Moisture and Ventilation Problems
Water is the most common type of damage that your home can experience. If you detect discoloration or beads of moisture on these surfaces, or if you notice high humidity (or worse!) mould in your attic, you may have a serious problem with your soffit and fascia. This is not something to be ignored; moisture can cause wood rot which ultimately can take down your whole roof if it's not tended to immediately.
Gutter Troubles
This is another sign you can find just by doing a quick visual inspection. If your gutters are pulling away from your home, sagging, or you notice water pooling around your home after rain, this could mean that your soffit is damaged and can no longer support the gutter. This can lead to water damage and leakage around the foundation of your home, so don't put off any repairs. Don't Wait! Contact Roofing Pros for Your Soffit and Fascia Today Your soffit and fascia perform necessary functions that keep your roof in good shape and your family safe (and dry!) Knowing when to replace your roof soffit or fascia is the first step to avoiding expensive property damage, but next, it's time to find trusted professionals to get the job done. At Trudel and Sons Roofing Ltd., we have 35 years of experience serving the Richmond Hill and GTA areas. We employ a team of skilled professionals and are proud to have won the distinction of being the #1 Roofing Contractor of the Year in 2021. Contact us today for your next roofing project.