SOFFIT AND FASCIA: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

When looking for a construction contractor to repair our roof, specific terms used by the estimator may seem imprecise like what are fascias and soffits? Of these, let us name fascia and soffit, words which, by their spelling alone, are difficult to decode.

WHAT IS A SOFFIT?

The soffit is one of the essential components of your roof. The sheets that make it up are located under the edge of your roof and are not installed lengthwise but cut and laid side by side. Perforated to let air in, so-called ventilated soffits are used for sloping roofs. Their full potential is reached when an entrance and an exit are found. Three main functions are assigned to soffits: ventilation, protection, and aesthetics.

THE 3 FUNCTIONS OF A SOFFIT

1. VENTING

The soffit is responsible for the ventilation of your building. It allows good air circulation in your attic. In winter, it avoids the accumulation of humidity when the temperature is high inside the house. This will therefore reduce the risk of mold in your roof. Soffits also help reduce the formation of ice under the attic and, therefore, the risk of damage associated with it. In summer, your air conditioner will be more efficient and effective. Good ventilation will therefore benefit you throughout the year.

2. PROTECTION

On the one hand, they serve to protect your house, mainly the structure eaves, against weather conditions. The soffit installation is therefore essential to avoid water infiltration or the presence of animals and insects. Ultimately, it is beneficial to opt for a solid and rigid material to ensure protection for years to come.

3. AESTHETICS

Although mainly used for their functional aspect, Soffits also serve to enhance the look of your home. A house without a soffit will give the impression that the construction is incomplete. Therefore, the soffits are part of the finishing work of the roof.

Soffits are available in different materials, and traditional soffits are usually aluminum. They are also available in several colors, which will allow you to select the one that best matches your home.

WHAT IS A FASCIA?

On the other hand, Fascia is an architectural term for the vertical frieze or simply the outer edge of the roof covering the outside of the cornice. Regarding this metal folding, you should know that this part of the roof works hand in hand with the soffits, in particular, to aim for good ventilation and prevent water infiltration. Typically sized between 4 and 6 inches, this component is located behind the gutters.

HOW TO PROPERLY MAINTAIN SOFFITS AND FASCIAS?

The best way to maintain soffits and fascias is first to clean the gutters, considering that they are generally the ones that store much dirt; emptying them regularly will therefore be a good start. Then, it is essential to make sure that there is no breakage, such as holes or rust. Finally, no small creature must decide to lodge its nest in the soffits.