What Are Fascias and Soffits? A Simple Guide
Short answer: the fascia is the long board that runs along the bottom edge of your roof, where the gutter is fixed. The soffit is the board underneath it, closing the gap between the fascia and the wall of your house. Together they protect the ends of your roof timbers from the weather and keep birds and pests out.
What does the fascia do?
The fascia board is fixed to the ends of the rafters. It holds up the gutter, supports the bottom row of tiles, and seals the edge of the roof from rain and wind.
What does the soffit do?
The soffit covers the underside of the overhang. It stops birds, wasps and vermin getting into the roof space, and vented soffits let air into the loft to help stop condensation.
Are fascias and soffits part of the roof?
Yes. They're part of the roofline, along with the guttering, bargeboards and verges. Roofers fit and replace them, often at the same time as a re-roof or new guttering.
Timber or uPVC?
Most older Doncaster houses were built with painted timber fascias and soffits, which need repainting and typically last 10 to 20 years. Most replacements today are uPVC, which doesn't rot, needs no painting and usually lasts 20 to 30 years or more.
How much do they cost to replace?
Replacing fascias and soffits on a typical Doncaster house costs £1,200 to £3,000 including VAT, or £2,100 to £6,000 with new guttering. See our full fascia and soffit cost guide for what affects the price.
Need yours looking at?
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a fascia and a soffit?
The fascia is the upright board at the edge of the roof that holds the gutter. The soffit is the flat board underneath it that closes the gap to the wall.
What are bargeboards?
Bargeboards are the boards along the sloping gable ends of a roof. They do the same job as fascias, but on the sides instead of the bottom edge.
Do I need soffits?
Yes. Without them the roof timbers are exposed and birds and pests can get into the loft.
Need a roofer in Doncaster?
We've been looking after roofs across Doncaster and South Yorkshire since 2014. See our fascias, soffits and guttering page, or get a free, no-obligation quote.
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