Soffits and fascia are essential for keeping your roof intact. As you're replacing your soffits and fascias, you may end up spending a lot of money hiring a professional. A professional can cost thousands of dollars while you may only spend a couple of hundred dollars to do it yourself! If you're not sure how to install soffits and fascia, we've created a guide for you. Keep reading to learn more.
How to Install Soffits and Fascia
If you choose to install soffits and fascia yourself, you can save quite a bit of money.
Here's how to install soffits and fascia:
Fix the Roof
Before you can get to the soffit and fascia repair, you'll want to make sure that your roof is intact.
If there are problems with your roof and you go ahead with installing the soffit and fascia, it will only make your roof problems worse. Check for water damage, wood decay, and broken shingle edges.
Once the roof has been inspected and you feel it's secure, you can move on with installing the soffits and fascia.
Prep Your Soffit
If there's old soffit that needs to be removed, this is the time to do so.
Once you've removed any old soffit, you'll want to remove the gutter that's blocking the soffit area. Be careful as you do this, because you may be able to reuse the gutter if it's in good shape.
Next, remove any vent covers over the soffit so you can have free airflow. You'll install new covers, so make sure you cut enough holes to ventilate the area. Remember, regular vent maintenance and cleaning is important to maintain airflow.
Replace the Fascia
Before you can install new fascia, remove the old fascia.
Remove the shingle moldings so you can begin replacing the fascia. The fascia you choose should match the size of the previous fascia. Straight pine boards would be a great option.
Install the Soffit Panels
Make sure to measure and cut the soffit panels before you install them.
To make sure they're the right size, you can measure the area you're going to want them to be in. It's recommended to cut the soffit panels 1/4 inch shorter than you measured inside of the J-channel.
Next, you'll slide the panel into the J-channel. Make sure the groove side is toward the installation direction. The outside of the panel should be nailed to the wooden fascia you just replaced.
Each time you add a soffit panel, join it with the last panel you installed. The tongue side should line up to the groove side.
Lastly, cut holes for lights if you have them.
Are You Ready to Start Your Project?
Soffits and fascia are an important part of your roof's structure.
When they need to be replaced, don't pay thousands of dollars to have a professional come in. Also, don't put it off and let water, pests, or poor insulation plague your home.
Now that you know how to install soffits and fascia, you can make your roof sturdy again while saving money!
