Why Roof Soffits are Important
If you have ever done work on a roof, you have likely run across roof soffits. Indeed, these are vital for the underside of your roof. Plus, they have other important functions that aid your roof’s health.
Notably, if you do not have good roof soffits, consider investing: here’s why.
What is a Roof Soffit?
If your roof has any sort of overhang, then you have roof soffits. To explain, soffit siding is the material that covers the bottom side of this overhang on your roof. To note, this overhang is often called a house eave, so soffits are the underside of any eave.
Indeed, a roof soffit can be made from many materials. While many are made of aluminum and wood, the most picked choice is often vinyl. This is because vinyl is the most durable and impact-resistant. Also, it is nearly maintenance free.
Next, roof soffits are either vented or non-vented. Firstly, vented soffits have air holes that allow for better cooling in the summer and heating in the winter. Conversely, non-vented soffits do not have these, and they are often found on plywood soffits.
To summarize, no matter your roofing system, soffits are important because the fascia and gutters are attached to the soffits between the eaves at the edge of the house. Thus, soffits improve drainage from your house, and they help regulate the indoor temperature.
Why Install Roof Soffits?
Not only do soffits have all the benefits listed above, there are more ways roof soffits help your house.
First, the ventilation soffits give does not just help with keeping your house cool or warm due to increased air flow. Indeed, it also helps your roof last longer. Without soffits that help air circulate through your roof, your roof can become superheated, which makes shingles break easier. Also, it can cause ice dams and humidity that causes leaks, mold, mildew, or wood rot.
Second, it makes your house’s aesthetics look better. For one, they give your house a finished look when looking at the underside of your roof. Indeed, they come in many sizes and colors, so soffits can fit with however you want your house to look.
Lastly, they protect your home and roof from bad weather. Notably, roof soffits help prevent damage from moisture or insects.
Choosing the Right Material
While mentioned before, there are many options you have when finding the types of roofing soffits you need. Indeed, the two most common choices are wood and vinyl, but both come with their own drawbacks.
To start, wood is good for aesthetics, but they need a lot of scraping and painting. Also, many panels need to be replaced in the long term due to weathering and warping. On the other hand, vinyl has many benefits, as listed before. However, it can discolor and warp in hot weather.
Another option is fiber cement. Indeed, it can be changed to match the looks of your house and comes with less maintenance. Plus, it comes in vented or non-vented.
Keeping Up Your Roof Soffits
Despite all their benefits, roof soffits still need some upkeep the longer you have them installed.
First, check your soffits and gutters for pests. It is possible for pests such as mice, rodents, insects, and birds to get through your a roof soffit and into your house. So, check if you have broken soffits periodically, and if there is any damage from pests overtime.
Second, clean your soffits of any external dirt. Just like fascia and gutters, soffits have a coating to protect from moisture. However, do not spray your soffits directly. Instead, use compressed air on vented soffits once every two years to get rid of dust and dirt.
Third, find any other signs of wear and tear. Notably, you can use a ladder to find any holes, rust, decay, or peeling paint on your soffits that would be hard to see with the naked eye. Also, make sure any sealant or caulk has not worn down. If you check these during your regular inspections, you can save a lot of money on repairs or replacements.
Finally, be sure to scrub your gutters. To do this, use a mild detergent and wipe down your gutters at least twice a year. Indeed, this helps get rid of filth and stagnant moisture that could grow mold or mildew on your soffits.
Roof Soffits For You
Overall, soffits are a vital part of your roof. Despite it seeming small, it helps keep your roof from pests and mold, and gives your house a great look. If you need any help with maintaining or installing soffits or for your next roofing project, call Titan Construction for a free quote.
