Eavestrough, Soffit and Fascia: Three Valuable Options For Your Roof

Your home may be the largest investment you ever make, so protecting both the roof and the foundation of your home is crucial.

Whether it's time to replace the roof on your home or you're looking into options to preserve the longevity of your existing roof, three additions to consider are fascia boards, soffits and eavestroughs. Adding some or all of these components to your roof may be the best way to protect your home from the elements.

Fascia boards hang from the edge of the roof, providing a finished look for the structure. Fascia is not only placed for aesthetic reasons. It also helps to protect the roof from the elements, serving as an attachment site for flashing, drip edges and eavestroughs. As rainwater flows down the slope of the roof, it runs down the fascia instead of running underneath shingles, tiles or other roofing substances.

Fascia boards are made with many different materials. How do you know which is the right choice? Consider the elements that your home is primarily subjected to. If you live in a low humidity climate, wood can be a practical choice. It is the least expensive material, but it requires the most maintenance. For regions that receive moderate to heavy rain and snow, vinyl can be the most practical choice. The vinyl attaches directly over the existing wood, helping to protect against both sun and rain. With vinyl you will find that maintenance and additional costs are minimal. Aluminum fascia boards encase existing wood as well. Although more expensive, aluminum can be a superior choice over bare wood or vinyl as this material protects the wood from rotting and can last for decades. Composite boards are made of recycled materials and are rust and rot proof. These boards are virtually maintenance free and they fair better than other materials in extreme weather climates. Though composite is the most expensive option, you will save money in maintenance and repair costs throughout the years.

A soffit attaches to the exterior walls of a house and extends to the fascia boards, covering the undersides of the eaves. They provide a finished look to roof rafters and patios, serving as an outdoor ceiling. Soffits are not just an aesthetic addition to a roof or porch, they also serve an important purpose. When outfitted with vents, they allow continuous airflow throughout the structure. Airflow is important because it does two things: Removes heat from the attic and prevents moisture buildup. Removing excess heat can be beneficial because it will require less energy to cool your home. Moisture buildup on the roof and in your attic can damage by rotting the existing structure, as well as lead to mold and mildew growth. Installing vented soffits is one of the best ways to reduce your utility bill and avoid costly mold remediation and repair costs. Soffits can be made from many materials, from simple plywood to vinyl and aluminum. They also come in many finishes, including flat surfaces, beaded boards and intricate tiled pieces.

An eavestrough (or rain gutter) serves a very important function, especially in wet climates.
Eavestroughs attach directly to your fascia boards, collecting leaves, debris and water. The troughs protect fascia boards and soffits from rotting by carrying the water from the roof and releasing it away from the foundation of the building to prevent structural damage from water buildup.

Eavestroughs come in a variety of colors and materials and can become a charming addition to the exterior of your home. Vinyl and aluminum are the most cost effective materials and are highly suitable for homes in mild weather climates. Galvanized steel may be the sturdiest option, but without proper maintenance they can be prone to rust. Stainless steel and copper eavestroughs may be the most expensive option, but they are as close to maintenance free as possible as well as being the most aesthetically pleasing.

When selecting roofing additions, considering your climate as well as your budget and personal preferences can guide you towards making the right choice in protecting your largest investment: Your home.

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