Roof Anatomy 101: Soffit and Fascia

The human body is an incredibly designed work of art.

It’s so complex, we go our whole lives living inside it knowing only a fraction of the “whys” and “hows” of its makeup.

You live 100 years inside your own body with just the basics: you know your heart pumps blood, your bones provide support, and your skin keeps it all together. But there are a million wonderful tiny elements within our own system that makes life possible.

Why am I talking about this? What does the human body have anything to do with a house?

As it turns out, a lot.

Most homeowners live for decades inside a structure with general 101 knowledge of it’s “anatomy”. They know a roof will keep them dry, solid walls will keep them comfortable through all seasons, and their HVAC keeps everything at a good temperature.

But there is so much more!

Today, I want to break down one of the most extraordinary pieces of your home’s exterior. A seemingly small but essential part of your home that

• • Protects you from mold, pests, and weather wear
  • Adds a finishing touch to your home’s exterior
  • And, most importantly, makes it possible for your big systems- like your roof- to hold up to it’s life expectancy.

And why does it matter to you?

Well, smart homeowners know the more they understand about their home, the better prepared they are to

• • Save money on upkeep
  • Choose the best material when it comes time for replacement
  • And choose a reputable, professional installer for their projects.

This quick reference will get you prepared to make the best decisions for your home when it comes time to think about your fascia and soffit. Ready? Excited? I am. Let’s dive in.

The Anatomy of a Roof

What IS Fascia?

In your body, fascia is the connective tissue that holds everything in your body together. It keeps your organs, blood vessels, and even your bones in place.

When your fascia isn’t working properly- if it’s damaged or tight- it holds you back by keeping major muscle groups from doing their job.

Your house fascia works the same way! It supports your shingles and enforces protection against weather wear. It acts as a connection between your roof and your gutters.

What IS Soffit?

Soffit covers the overhang of your roof to keep moisture (and pests!) from making a home in your attic.

These two, soffit and fascia, work together to keep your home safe and healthy.

Every roof needs soffit and fascia. But when it comes to replacement, homeowners are faced with a lot of options in material and design.

At Martin Roofing and Siding, we want to help you get those finishing details right. Here are the two most common types of soffit and fascia you’ll see in the roofing industry:

Wood: Looks vs. Maintenance

 

There’s no denying wood soffit has it all when it comes to curb appeal. It’s sleek appearance and natural finish are seeing a resurgence in popularity. For those seeking the modern farmhouse style, adding a wood soffit is an easy way to get that “wood look” fix with a major facade overhaul.

It’s versatility is also a major advantage.

This house went with a light oak style to really compliment the brick siding:

For those building low-impact homes, wood is also biodegradable.

But that’s a double edged sword.

The main reason people choose wood soffit and fascia is for the style. But the material deteriorates fast, especially in high-rainfall areas like here in Schuylkill County. If you choose this option, keep in mind this material needs to be painted or sealed every few years.

They’ll weather less than, say, a wood deck. But be prepared to add it to your maintenance list as a homeowner.

Vinyl: Style and Durability

Vinyl is the most popular choice for soffit and fascia. When you choose vinyl, you’re choosing an option that’s:

• • Little to no maintenance
  • Budget friendly
  • Easy to work with and install

Here’s the best news: Vinyl manufacturers have wisened to the design demands of modern homeowners. That means you can get the high-end look of wood without the cost or maintenance.

Take this home for example:

Would you believe it if I told you that’s vinyl? Beautiful, right?

Vinyl is also a great choice when it comes to durability. Our favorite product distributor, Ply Gem, specializes in storm-proof exterior materials. That’s great news for Pennsylvania homeowners. Between ice and non-stop rainy springs and humid summers…our house takes a beating. I can’t recommend this company enough!

Ply Gem’s mastic soffits aren’t only dent proof- they also increase airflow. Their vinyl panels are vented to maximize airflow and help reduce your utility bill.

And the style? Beautiful. Take this house for example:

I love how this sleek and modern look also keeps every home protected. Some would say that choosing vinyl compromises your home’s curb appeal- but I disagree. Vinyl can be a beautiful product when matched with your exterior.

The Finishing Touch on Your Roof

Whether you choose wood or vinyl soffit and fascia, our team is experienced in the installation process and would love to help! Typically, your soffit and fascia are updated alongside your roof. But if your last roof replacement wasn’t paired with a soffit/fascia update, we’d be happy to help you protect your house with a fast exterior remodel.

Give us a call at 570-345-0406 to get on our schedule this spring- and say “hello” to decades of worry-free weather protection!

Never miss an article! Keep up with the latest at Martin Roofing and Siding by signing up for our email list here: