Soffit and Fascia: What are they? What do they do? Can they be repaired? These are some questions you may have when looking at the roof of your home, or when researching some common issues many homeowners face when maintaining their roofs. It’s important to know the roof of your home has many parts, all of which contribute to protecting you from the elements, and Soffit and Fascia are vital parts of this system. Let’s look at what they are, some common problems they can face, and why you may need professional repair.
Soffit and Fascia each have a specific role in protecting your home, and your roof, from the elements.
Soffit covers the exposed rafters and protects your home from rainwater and rodents, while protecting your roof from mold, mildew, and ice damage. Another function of soffit is to provide your attic with proper ventilation. Soffit is designed with small holes that provide air circulation through the vents and help keep heat and moisture away from your house. This is an essential component of your roof, because too much heat and moisture in the attic will cause rot in your sheathing and rafters!
Fascia acts as a layer between your roof and the elements. It is a vertical finishing edge that connects to the area where your gutter attaches to the roof, and its primary role is to protect the wooden board from water damage, as well as protecting the entire roof and your home’s interior from weather damage by blocking water. Fascia is also important for your home’s curb appeal! By creating a smooth and even appearance to the roof’s edge, fascia gives your home a clean and complete look.
Together, soffit and fascia meet at your roof’s edge and create an enclosed space that stops water from entering your home.
On average, it costs between $6 and $20 per linear foot to replace or repair fascia and soffit. Ultimately, the cost is going to vary depending on what material you choose for your home.
Vinyl soffits can cost between $6 and $10 per linear foot - these are a good option if maintenance is something you don’t see yourself wanting to keep up with. Vinyl does not need to be painted, and as such will not be prone to peeling or fading.
Vinyl fascia board costs between $5 and $9 per linear foot - this is one of the most popular materials for fascia, and it requires very little maintenance, as well as being less prone to rot and water damage.
Aluminum soffit will run you on average anywhere between $8 and $20 per linear foot. They tend to be more durable and require less maintenance than other kinds of soffits.
Aluminum fascia boards, like aluminum soffit, are also long-lasting and require less maintenance than other materials. They range between $8 to $20 per linear foot, making them a little pricier and typically harder to install.
Wood soffits require more upkeep, but they tend to be cheaper than other materials. They range between $6 and $10 per linear foot, but they can be prone to developing mold or rot, so having to repair these types of soffit is more common.
Wood fascia boards are the most cost-effective option out there, making them the most popular choice. However, wood fascia requires more upkeep because it can deteriorate. The average cost will run you between $1 and $3 per linear foot.
Composite soffits are a good option for withstanding more wear and tear. They can range between $8 and $20 per linear foot.
Composite fascia boards cost between $1 and $8 per linear foot. They are a great choice for those wanting less maintenance, because they are durable and stand up well to the elements.
The labor cost for fascia installation ranges from $6 to $20 per linear foot, while the labor cost for soffit installation ranges from $1 and $3 per linear foot. The price will vary depending upon the complexity of the area of your home in which the installation is being performed.
Now that you know the importance of the role soffit and fascia play in protecting your home, if you think you may need to have your soffit and fascia repaired or replaced, it's important to get a trusted roofing company to come out and take a look. At Colony Roofers, we offer free 30 minute inspections, book one today!