Frequently Asked Fascia & Soffit Questions
What is a fascia board? What is a soffit board?
A PVC fascia board is the long, straight board that runs along the lower edge of the roof where it meets the outer walls of the house. It is responsible for supporting the lower edge of the bottom row of roof tiles, as well as providing protection to the roof rafters and carrying the guttering. A PVC soffit is a 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. For more detail check out our PVC Fascias and Soffits guide
How do you install fascias?
Framing out and preparation is key, whether you are replacing an existing fascia or installing a PVC fascia in a new build. Rafters must be at a maximum of 600mm, soffit bearers must be installed, and gable ladders used to provide adequate fixing for the fascia board.You can now start to install your PVC fascia. Firstly install your soffit boards. Then choose the appropriate height of Jumbo board before fixing the fascia to each rafter end. Detailed instructions, along with important design and installation notes, can be found in our Design and Specification Guide.
How do you measure for fascias and soffit boards?
Simple linear measurements can be made at ground level with a tape – this will give you the total meterage from which you can calculate the number of boards required and attempt to make best use of any off-cuts. Gable ends and bargeboards are a little trickier as they are on the incline of the roof, so it may be safer to ask for advice from a professional when determining this measurement.Remember to count the number of joints and corners required. Most are single ended (300mm) but some are double ended (500mm) and can provide two single trims if the fascia is less than 250mm. Soffits also need a soffit joint trim which can be cut to suit the soffit width.You will also need to measure the fascia and soffit board width/depths – remember the soffit may be resting on the top brick course/window head so allow at least 25mm – 50mm for this and about 10mm to locate in the soffit groove of the fascia too.
What is the difference between full replacement boards and capping boards?
Full replacement (16mm -20mm thick) requires the removal of all existing timber boards before fixing the replacement board to the structurally sound rafter ends or suitable packers fixed to the sides of them.Refurbishment/capping boards should be fixed to good quality, existing timber boards or newly introduced backing boards (min 12mm marine ply). Never cover over rotten timber - cut out any suspect areas and replace with treated timber or replace the full length with a ply backing board.
What are the different types of soffit boards?
There are two main types of PVC soffit board, plain and woodgrain. Plain PVC soffit boards are usually available as general purpose; hollow, a lightweight and versatile board; and vented, which allows air to flow through the roof space preventing damp. These plain soffits boards come in a range of colours from traditional white and black, to the more contemporary black and grey. Woodgrain PVC soffit boards are designed to imitate real timber and are also available as general purpose, hollow and vented. You will be able to chose from a variety of tones, from natural browns to modern greys. Whether you chose plain or woodgrain, there is a PVC soffit board to perfectly suit your style of home.
