FASCIA BOARD
If you're like most homeowners, you probably don't think about your home's fascia or have no idea what it is. However, when the weather warms and storms season approaches, you may notice a problem with the boards to which your gutter is attached. That board is called fascia, and it serves a vital role for your home, but it can be easily damaged by Mother Nature if not placed or maintained properly.
That's why responsible homeowners should learn about the several types of fascia boards available for their home, as well as typical problems and DIY solutions, as well as when and how to call the experts at All Around Roofing, Siding & Gutters.
WHAT EXACTLY IS FASCIA?
Fascia is the trim that extends along with the roof structure's framing and is also known as sub-fascia. Fascia is often a 1x board that runs the length of the roof's perimeter. They are painted or covered in metal to protect them from the elements.
The fascia's principal function, in conjunction with the soffit, is to close the gap between the siding and the roof framework. They are attached to the truss or rafter system and add to the curb appeal of your home's outside appearance. It gives your roof's edge a smooth, even appearance. Finally, your gutter attaches to the fascia board.
FASCIA BOARD MATERIALS IN DIFFERENT TYPES
Although wood is the most common material utilized, there are numerous others. The different materials used to build your most typical fascia boards are listed below.
FASCIA BOARDS IN VINYL
Vinyl is known for being extremely durable and simple to install, and it also has fewer repair and maintenance expenses than other materials such as wood. Vinyl is a form of material sometimes known as PVC (polyvinyl chloride). While it is not an environmentally friendly material, it does have a lengthy lifespan. Vinyl does not decompose and comes in a range of colors, although it is susceptible to algae and mildew discoloration.
FASCIA BOARDS MADE OF WOOD
For residential uses, wood is the most commonly utilized material. Fascia, like roof decks and soffits, can be built of pine timber or wood siding, and it can also be made of cedar. You can choose between a smooth or a rough finish, depending on your preferences. Wood, while not as long-lasting as vinyl, can still be used for a long period if properly treated and maintained. It's also less expensive and better for the environment. Although wood is susceptible to rot, especially during storm season, a coat or two of exterior paint can preserve it from moisture while also adding to the curb appeal of your home.
FASCIA BOARDS MADE OF ALUMINUM
Aluminum, like vinyl, is a low-maintenance material that is also quite durable. Because aluminum is flexible and provides excellent weatherproofing, it is frequently used to cover old wood fascia. Aluminum, like wood, is easy to paint and comes in a variety of colors.
FASCIA BOARDS MADE OF COMPOSITE
Although composite materials are more expensive than conventional materials, they have advantages that make them worthwhile. Composite is rot, mildew, and mold resistant and is made from recycled wood chips and sawdust mixed with epoxy resin. It's long-lasting, resilient, and can be made to seem like wood. Composite, like vinyl and aluminum, comes in a variety of colors and styles.
MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS
Fascia, like other exterior features of your home, can deteriorate with time. It is critical to provide proper care and maintenance on an annual basis. Your fascia can be damaged by moisture, severe winds, and pests. This area of your roof has to be protected since it protects both the exterior and interior of your home from mold, mildew, and wood rot. There are a few things you can do to preserve the material in good condition and assure its longevity and aesthetics.
DRIP EDGE BOARDS INSTALLATION
A drip edge should be installed around the perimeter of any roof system. It's one of the most important aspects of preventing fascia injury. A drip edge is essentially a pre-bent metal flashing that comes in 10-foot pieces. During the shingle installation, it is fastened to the roof deck. It goes on after the underlayment and before the first shingle layer. Its job is to connect the back flange of the gutter to the fascia and direct water into the gutter.
WHEN SHOULD YOUR ROOF AND FASCIA BE INSPECTED?
A comprehensive inspection should be performed at least twice a year. It is recommended that you do it twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring. Including this on your seasonal "to-do" list gives you the chance to inspect your soffits, siding, roof, gutters, and downpipes. Cracks, discoloration, rot/deterioration, splintering, staining, warping/buckling, missing boards, backed out bolts, peeling paint, and/or anything else that does not appear to be normal should be looked for. Be on the lookout for evidence of animals and their nests as well as inspecting the material.
The change in weather might tempt animals to seek shelter in the safety of your home, and the easiest path is usually through a damaged fascia area. Gutters are another location that should be checked throughout your examination. Keeping your gutters clear of leaves and dirt reduces the likelihood of water back-flowing behind your fascia and causing damage. The less the material comes into contact with water or moisture of any type, the longer it will endure.
NOW IS THE TIME TO CONTACT THE PROFESSIONALS
Even if you do all humanly possible and obtain each of the sets listed above, repairs or replacement will be required at some point. You're going to employ a contractor and entrust them with your family's most valuable asset, your largest investment, and the location where you sleep every night. Remove that risk by entrusting it to Kettering, Ohio-based All Around Roofing, Siding & Gutters. Joel and I were born in this community, Our office and sales personnel have more installation experience than most other firms combined, and our work team is made up of qualified, experienced technicians who have been with us for more than 5 years.
Allow us to present you with the "All Around Experience."
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