​Gutters play the key role in keeping rainwater away from a home's foundation, but it's important to note that soffit and fascia, too, play a significant role there, and therefore, are as critical as the gutter. The soffit provides attic ventilation, while the fascia protects the roof's edge and wooden board from water damage and adds a polished look to the roof's edge. Before replacing your gutters, ensure the soffit and fascia are in good condition and replace them if necessary. Read on to learn when and why to replace soffit and fascia.

​Soffits and fascia are components of a roof system with specific functions. Soffits are placed beneath the eaves of the roof and against the siding to provide ventilation and prevent critters from entering, while fascia boards are installed horizontally at the edge of the roof to protect the home from weather elements and provide a finished look. Both can be made of wood, vinyl, aluminum, or PVC, with vinyl being a popular choice for soffits due to its low maintenance and ease of installation.

​The fascia board is a crucial component in the roofing system, serving as the support and attachment point for the gutters and soffit. Therefore, when installing new gutters, it is vital to ensure that the fascia board is in good condition and can withstand the added weight. This not only helps to prevent the gutters from falling off or becoming misaligned, but it also protects the home from moisture damage.
 
A damaged fascia board may not adequately support the weight of the gutters, which could result in the gutters sagging, separating from the fascia, or even falling off altogether. Additionally, a damaged fascia board can provide an opening for water to enter the home, causing moisture damage and leading to costly repairs in the future.
 
Therefore, it is essential to replace damaged fascia boards before installing new gutters to ensure the stability of the roofing system and protect the home from potential damage.

​Clean Gutters Regularly: Clean gutters using a hose or a plumbing snake/high-pressure water to remove debris like leaves, pine needles, and twigs. Clean twice a year, more frequently if you live near trees.
 
Install Gutter Covers/Helmet: Install covers or helmets to prevent debris clogging but regularly inspect, especially if you live in a tree-rich area. Covers/helmet types include snap-on front with drain cutout and flat perforated screens.
 
Hire a Pro: If gutter cleaning makes you anxious, find a reputable company by searching online or asking friends/family. Provide gutter-type information for assessment. Costs vary based on linear footage and home height. Shop around for the best deal.

Whether you are looking for an expert to maintain your gutter or install soffit and fascia in Wetaskiwin, Do-All Stucco & Stone has got you covered. To schedule an appointment, call 403-588-5306.

What Are Soffit and Fascia Boards?In Latin, fascia means a band or strip of material. A fascia board is a thin longboard that runs along the lower edge of the roof and covers the roofline. A soffit board is installed to cover the underside of the roof overhang.
 
Traditional fascia and soffit boards are made of wood or aluminum. Soffit and fascia boards manufactured these days generally utilize vinyl or PVC for enhanced durability and ease of maintenance. Though soffit and fascia in Wetaskiwin are rarely visible from the street, they serve an important purpose. 

The Importance of Soffit and FasciaYour soffit and fascia provide a smooth finish to your roofline. They hide your rafters and the interior structure of your roofing system and can boost the curb appeal of your property. Soffit and fascia boards are available in a variety of styles. It should not be difficult to find a soffit and fascia board that complements the design of your home.
 
Moisture in your attic is a recipe for disaster. It can cause a whole host of problems such as mold growth, wood rot, and structural problems. Soffit can help control moisture in your attic. Soffit has little holes in it. These holes are specifically designed to help air pass in and out of your attic.
 
By improving air circulation, your soffit helps remove excess heat and moisture from your home. In winter, your soffit prevents heat in your home from escaping so your HVAC does not have to work harder and longer to keep it warm and cozy.
 
Fascia prevents water from entering the attic by sealing the edge of the roof. It also blocks entry points for pesky pests such as squirrels, insects and rats.

How Do Soffit and Fascia Boards Get Damaged?The most common culprit behind soffit and fascia damage is clogged gutters. When your gutters become clogged with debris such as leaves, remnants of bird nests, pebbles and twigs, rainwater has nowhere to go. It pours over your soffit and across your fascia before making its way to your exterior walls. This causes the roofline to degrade prematurely. Some other common causes of soffit and fascia damage include age-related deterioration, inclement weather and excess humidity.

Signs of Soffit and Fascia DamageHere are some signs your soffit and fascia are damaged and need to be repaired or replaced.
 

• Peeling, cracking, fading or flaking paint
• Ventilation problems
• Leaky, overflowing or damaged rain gutters
• Unsightly patches or streaks on trim boards and siding
• Pest problems
• Your energy bill has been going up

 
Whether you want to install soffit and fascia or need help taking care of your soffit and fascia, Do-All Stucco & Stone has got you covered. If you are confused between different soffit and fascia materials, we can help you weigh their pros and cons, paving the way for better decision-making. To get a quote for your Wetaskiwin stucco painting project, call 403-588-5306.

​The soffit and fascia are integral parts of a roofing system. They are boards used to complete and seal the edges of a roof where the rafter tails would otherwise be exposed. The soffit is the exposed siding underneath the roof’s overhang. The fascia forms the vertical finishing edge that connects the roof to trusses, rafters or gutter attachments.

​In addition to providing a finishing touch to roofs, soffits and fascia boards provide protection from the elements. The soffit provides excellent wind protection and prevents moisture problems, thereby protecting the roof edge and rafters from rotting. 

The fascia prevents water damage and keeps pesky pests away from the open space between the rafters. Soffit and fascia in Leduc can also help make your home more energy-efficient.
 
Over time, sun and moisture exposure can damage wooden soffits and fascia boards. Pests such as squirrels and rodents tend to chew and gnaw on fascia boards and soffits, causing serious, and in some cases, irreversible damage. 

Damaged soffit and fascia boards are a recipe for disaster. Once your soffit and fascia get damaged, your roof can face a whole host of problems such as mold and pest infestation. Soffit and fascia damage can also lead to rot and interior water leaks. Missing and damaged fascia boards can lead to structural problems.

​Like every other part of your roofing system, the soffit and fascia need periodic maintenance. Regular maintenance addresses current problems before they snowball into major concerns and prevents potential issues.
 
Here are some tips to maintain your soffit and fascia
 

• Peeling and flaking paint could mean that the wood underneath has begun to swell due to dampness. If you notice peeling and flaking paint, look for signs of rot. Repair wood rot before it spreads. This may involve replacing the damaged area. Consider sanding and repainting your soffits and fascias

 

• Inspect the sealant and caulking for gaps and cracks. Reapply if required

 

• Over time, gutters can become clogged with dirt, dust and debris. Clogged gutters can cause water to leak into your soffit. To prevent this from happening, clean your gutters at least twice every year

 
Check your fascia for structural damage. Repair any rotting portion immediately 

​Soffits and fascia boards are not supposed to last a lifetime. Here are some signs your soffits and fascia boards are beyond saving and need to be replaced
 

• Water in your roof void

 

• Pest infestation

 

• Lack of ventilation in your home

 

• Cracked mortar or gable ends

 

• Cracking or flaking soffit and fascia paint

 
Traces of asbestos in your soffit and fascia 

​Do-All Stucco & Stone is a renowned stone contractor in Airdrie. We have years of experience installing, repairing and replacing stucco and soffit. To talk to one of our experts, call 403-588-5306.