A lot of homeowners assume that soffit and fascia boards primarily provide a finished and neat look to the edges of their roof. While this is certainly true, the two components serve other essential purposes as well. The purpose of soffit is to prevent water and humid air from rotting out the edge and rafters of your roof. Without a soffit, your home would be more susceptible to rot and mold in the sheathing and rafters. Fascia board, on the other hand, is regularly exposed to rain and moisture. It is also responsible for keeping pests from accessing the space between the rafters and heading right into the roof. Essentially, the fascia is a line of defense meant to protect the edge of your roof. While they have the main duty of protecting the livability and structural integrity of your home, they also play a role in keeping your home energy efficient by limiting the loss of heated or cooled air through the edges of the roof.
To summarize, soffit and fascia boards are important because:
- They are your roof’s first line of defense against wind and rain
- They help eliminate the risk of structural damage
- They offer structural support for your gutter system
- They protect your home from water damage and wood rot
- They improve ventilation throughout your home
- They create a barrier to keep moisture out
- They help keep pests out
- They add an appealing finishing touch to your home