What are Fascias and Soffits?

Fascias and soffits are an integral part of a roof, not only adding a pleasing aesthetic but also playing a vital role in protecting the exposed areas of your roof. Learning more about these essential roof elements will help you understand more about their function and enable you to identify any issues before they develop.

What are Fascias?

A fascia or fascia board is the long, straight board that runs along the lower edge of a roof where it meets the outer walls of a house – often referred to as the roofline.

What is the Purpose of Fascias?

Fascias are not merely a design feature - although they do provide a clean, professional finish to your roofline. They have many practical functions, including:

Supporting the lower line of roof tiles

Sitting underneath the roofline, the fascia helps to support the lower line of roof tiles (and other alternative roofing materials).

Supporting gutters

The fascia supports the gutter system, which helps direct water away from the home. Without a fascia board, guttering can not be securely attached to the roofline and will deteriorate more quickly.

Roof protection

Fascias protect your roof structure by creating a barrier and preventing moisture from entering.

Prevents pests

Creating a sealed barrier, the fascia doesn’t only prevent moisture from entering your roof, but also potential pests, such as insects, birds, and rodents.

What Material is Used for Fascia Boards?

Wood fascia 

Wood is the traditional material used for fascia boards. However, they require regular maintenance and treatments to protect them from the elements otherwise they will rot, split, and discolour.

PVC fascia

PVC fascias are becoming more popular due to their durability, wide range of colours, and ease of maintenance.

Aluminium fascia

Aluminium fascias are also becoming more widespread, due to their longevity and durability.

What are Soffits?

A soffit is the flat board that is tucked away under the fascia board. It covers the roof overhang from below and protects the exposed part of the roof between the external wall and the fascia.

What is the Purpose of Soffits?

Aesthetics

A well fitted, coordinated soffit can help improve the exterior look of a home. They can also help to conceal electrical wiring, plumbing and other fixtures that run along the underside of the roof.

Protection 

Similar to a fascia, a soffit provides protection. It prevents damage being caused to the roof rafters from the elements, insects, and other pests.

Ventilation

It is important to consider ventilation when installing a new soffit. A soffit creates a ‘boxed’ area along the roofline, which although prevents moisture from entering the roof cavity, can also prevent moisture from escaping. This can lead to the build-up of mould. Vented soffit boards allow air to circulate, helping to prevent condensation.

What Material is Used for Soffits?

As with fascias, soffits can be made from a variety of different materials, including wood and PVC. Whilst wood is a traditional choice, it is time consuming to maintain and requires regular treatments to prevent it from rotting, splitting, and breaking. PVC, on the other hand, provides a long-lasting option, that needs very little looking after and is extremely durable against the British weather.

What is the Difference Between Fascias and Soffits?

Hopefully the descriptions above will help you understand and recognise the difference between a fascia and a soffit. A fascia is the board which runs horizontal to your house directly underneath your roofline, helping to support your roof tiles and guttering. A soffit is the perpendicular board which runs underneath the fascia and closes the gap between the roof and the wall of your home.

If you would like further information or advice about soffits and fascias, call our expert team today
on 0800 22 77 77 for a no obligation chat