Siding Issues: Check Your Soffits
Soffits are the sections of siding that line the underside of your roof overhang. This part of your wood siding may be suffering from neglect and wear. Why does this area pose such a problem?
First, it is kind of difficult to work on. You have to climb up a ladder and lean back in an awkward position to install these pieces. Soffits should really be painted before they are installed – especially any end seams where moisture can get in. Of course, this is a step that often gets skipped when a harried construction crew is just trying to get the job done. When the soffits are painted after installation, there may be spots that are missed. That’s not something that is apparent unless you are looking for it; but it can cause real problems with weathering.
Second, the soffits are very close to the gutter system. Anytime your gutters get clogged and overflow (or if they leak), water can seep out along the fascia. Since water has a high level of surface tension, it can creep from the fascia onto the soffits. Again, this damage is easy to miss and often goes unrepaired for many years.
Repair & Replacement
Damaged soffit sections can be replaced just like any other part of your siding. You can use a Phillips head screwdriver to poke the soffit boards to determine which areas are rotten. You may need to remove the fascia (trim) so you can rip out the damaged soffit section. Cut your new soffit section to the correct length; paint and prime the entire board or use a sealer. Cover all the surfaces including the edges. Nail the new section in place along the eave line. You can use a silicone caulk intended for outdoor use to help seal any gaps where two edges meet. Reattach the fascia, and you are done.
Related posts:
- Vinyl Siding Components: Soffits and Fascia
- Reach For The Rafters With Vertical Siding
- Aluminum Siding Dent Repair Tutorial
- 3 Siding Installation Mistakes To Avoid
- Different Types of Wood Siding
Tags: Siding
