Each roof has several components that increase ventilation, insulation, durability, and protection for those in the home. They also make the roof beautiful to look at! Two examples of this are soffit and fascia. Not sure the difference between soffit and fascia? You are in the right place. We will explain what each term means and also discuss some advantages of each below.
What is Soffit?
Imagine being at ground level and staring up at your roof. You’ll have the main roof, but underneath, where it joins the wall, there is a sort of box-like structure. The underside of this ‘box’ is called a soffit. It features small holes that make air travel in and out of your roof and improve attic ventilation.
Manufacturers can make soffit from several materials. This can include wood, vinyl, or metal alloys like aluminum. The type you choose can be important, as different materials offer different qualities.
You can also choose from a variety of soffit colors. This is largely based on personal preference and can match the colors of your siding or can be used to create a really nice contrasting effect.
Why is Soffit Important?
It may seem less important than the actual roof, but soffit is really important for several reasons:
Increased Ventilation
The heat in your home rises. While it may seem like a good thing to have a well-insulated home, you don’t want your roof space to become too hot. If it does, then you may find that condensation forms. When water is left standing in warmer areas, it can encourage the formation of mold spores.
Soffit allows just the right amount of warm air to escape and ensures that your roof space stays at a consistent temperature with plenty of ventilation.
Stronger Roof Sealing
The soffit contributes to a strong seal that protects the interior of your home from the outside elements. You will also avoid issues such as mold and rot.
Depending on where you are located, you might find that certain species love nothing more than to call your nice cozy roof ‘home.’ Nesting birds can bring mites and other bugs into your living area. Eaves are a particular favorite of bees and wasps. A soffit keeps out all of these uninvited guests.
It Adds Value
A home is much more marketable when its roof is in good condition. As soffit is available in various colors, finishes, and styles — this feature makes it pretty easy to give your roof area a facelift and look superb to friends, neighbors, and potential buyers.
What is Fascia?
Remember how we talked about the ‘box-like structure underneath the edges of your roof? The vertical edge of your roofing is called the fascia. Soffit and fascia work side by side (literally) to form your eaves.
Because the fascia is vertical and easily visible, it must be in good condition from an aesthetic perspective. In the past, fascia used to be made of wood. This requires quite a lot of upkeep and maintenance. But with the advent of modern materials, such as vinyl, a good quality fascia requires minimal upkeep and can last for a long time.
Why is Fascia Important?
Just like soffit, fascia offers much more than just aesthetic value. Here are some reasons why it is important:
Extra Support
Fascia is used as a structural element to protect everyone inside the home. It rests under your roof and supports the end line of tiles or panels. If it were to degrade or become damaged, it wouldn’t hold up your roof.
Efficient Guttering
Fascia doesn’t only support the roof material. It also improves guttering and helps transfer rainwater from the top of the roof to the ground.
Your roof probably occupies quite a significant surface area. During heavy rain or precipitation, that water will need a place to go. It is normally collected by half pipes running along the perimeter of your roof, called guttering.
Large volumes of water weigh quite a lot. If you have full gutters, you will need to make sure that they have a solid base. A good quality, well-constructed fascia helps direct the water down into the gutters, preventing leaks on top.
Good Looks
While you have to look up to see soffit, fascia is easily visible. It contributes to your property’s frontage and says a lot about you as a homeowner. When cleaning your home with a pressure washer, it’s easy to keep your fascia in pristine condition and contribute to your roof’s overall beauty.
Conclusion: What is Soffit and Fascia?
Hopefully, you now know the answer to “what is soffit and fascia?” Soffit is the horizontal panels underneath your eaves. Fascia forms the vertical element.
Choosing the right material for each will add value to your home, control your roof space’s temperature, and ensure that your roof structure has all the support it needs!
