Soffits are one of the most prominent parts of your home. They not only complete the overall look of your home by covering your eaves but they also provide your attic with passive ventilation, allowing it to breathe and keep your roof in good condition for a long time. However, like most parts of a typical roofing system, soffits have common issues that you should keep an eye out for.
In today’s post, local roofing company Sterling Exteriors examines the common soffit issues that you need to keep an eye on.
- Pest Infestation
Birds and other small animals may gain access to the attic through the soffits and form nests there. This is because vented soffits are manufactured to have small holes that provide proper air circulation to your attic and draw heat and moisture away from the house. As such, it’s highly recommended that you have them inspected every now and then to prevent pest infestation.
- Moisture Damage
Traditional soffits are made from wood, which is vulnerable to moisture damage from attic humidity or wind-driven rain unless it receives regular maintenance. Early signs of moisture damage include blistering, cracking, or peeling paint, while later signs include broken boards and visible rot.
Remember: Always choose a material that can handle your area’s climate. For instance, most roofing contractors would recommend fiber cement siding for homes in temperate climates because of its resistance to extreme temperatures.
- Dry Rot
Dry rot is caused by a certain type of fungus that thrives on wood fiber and is typically found on exterior components made of wood, such as siding and decking, and can also spread to wood soffits. You can check for it by gently but firmly tapping the affected area with a large screwdriver or similar tool. If pieces of wood fall out, then dry rot has already affected your soffits. Keeping up with required maintenance or choosing low-maintenance options as described above can help avoid dry rot.
- Improper Installation
Chances of installation errors happening are greater if one happens to hire an inexperienced installer to replace them since Soffits can be removed and replaced without affecting the rest of the roof. Space them too far apart, and it leaves the roof vulnerable to wind uplift. Space them too closely, and they may block attic ventilation.
Why Routine Roof Maintenance Is a Must
Keep in mind the warning signs of the aforementioned are not always visible from ground level, which is why it’s important to follow a maintenance routine for your roof.
When you’re looking for a trusted contractor in roofing services, Sterling Exteriors has got you covered! Contact us at (513) 496-0976 or through our online request form. We serve Cincinnati, Newtown, Lovetown, and the neighboring OH areas.