The soffit is commonly found in homes that have their roofs past the exterior wall, essentially covering the gap between the roof edge and the top part of the siding. The word itself originates from the French term that translates to “formed as a ceiling” and the Latin term for “to fix underneath”. As one of the many crucial components in a well-built roofing system, they’re traditionally made from wood but are available in different materials depending on the homeowner’s preference.
Soffits are also susceptible to damage just like the rest of the roof, and they won’t always be visible unless identified through routine roof maintenance by a professional. This must be addressed immediately to prevent further damage to the roof.
What Issues Should You Look for?
If you don’t properly manage your roof, it will become more susceptible to rot. This type of damage comes from accumulated moisture within your roofing system caused by structural flaws such as damaged flashing and loose shingles. The soffit is typically one of the first places to get affected by rot and water leaks, and if it isn’t addressed properly, it can lead to mold growth and the damage can spread to the rest of your roofing system.
To avoid paying for a costly roof repair or replacement job, it’s important to take action quickly. Don’t attempt to DIY the soffit repair since you’ll only put your safety at risk. It’s better to hire a trusted roof replacement contractor since they already have the means and expertise to do it properly. They’ll know how to check your soffit thoroughly for any sign of damage and make the necessary repairs.
Inspecting Your Soffit
This is almost as easy as checking your soffit from ground level, but a closer inspection is sometimes necessary to determine its full condition. You can take a closer look whenever you’re cleaning your gutters. For this, you can poke the soffit with a blunt object like a screwdriver to see if it is still intact. Doing this will also help you determine whether pests or small animals have nested inside your soffits.
If you see that most parts of the soffit are rotted or affected in some way, it may be better to get a full replacement. You can always use the same material for your soffit, but some materials are more reliable against wear and tear than traditional wood. They may be a bit expensive, but it’s often cost-effective if it means fewer repairs later on.
Fields Roof Service, Inc. is your best choice for quality roofing maintenance and modified bitumen roof installation. Call us at (253) 852-4974 or through our convenient online request form.
