The soffit and fascia may not be as prominent as the more visible parts of your roof, but they still play important roles in providing ventilation to your home as well as preventing moisture damage to it. Exterior Building Solutions, one of the top roofing companies in the state, further elaborates on the importance of the two below.
The Fascia Board
The fascia board is a long straight board located at the end of the rafters. The fascia board supports the gutters and, as such, needs to be sturdy enough to bear the combined weight of the rainwater pouring through downspouts and the gutters. Given this proximity to gutters, the fascia board is also the first to bear the brunt of rainwater overflow from clogged gutters. Left unattended, the overflow might cause the fascia board to deteriorate.
Fascia boards serve another function: they prevent pests and small animals, particularly birds, rodents and wasps, from building their nests in the underside of the roof.
Considering the essential functions the fascia board plays in preventing moisture and pest damage to your roof, it’s important that a contractor specializing in roofing maintenance services to inspect the fascia board and clean the gutters periodically.
The Soffit Board
However, a physical barrier alone can’t prevent moisture damage. Without proper ventilation, moisture and condensation can build up on the underside of your roof, leaving it susceptible to wood rot. This is where the soffit board comes in; the small holes located under the fascia board provide much-needed ventilation. Plus, the soffit acts as another physical barrier: it prevents wind-blown rain from entering the underside of your roof.
Given their proximity to the gutters and, by extension, rainwater runoff, the fascia and soffit boards can be easily damaged. As such, it’s recommended that an experienced contractor periodically inspect and maintain your roof, especially the gutters and flashing.
Exterior Building Solutions is a family-owned contractor with more than a decade of experience. We offer roof inspection and emergency leaking roof repair services. For inquiries, call (314) 470-8783, or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Arnold, MO, as well as other nearby areas.