A roofing system is far more than the shingles, metal panels or other materials that show on the surface. Underlayment, decking, flashing, trusses, rafters, and vents are just a few of the components of a well-constructed roof. However, soffits and fascia boards are also important features that an Austin residential roofing contractor can help you maintain.
What Are the Fascia Boards?
Fascia is a word derived from the Latin term for a band, ribbon or bandage. In residential architecture, fascia boards are roofing components that form a band below the edge of a roof. They cap the framing boards that attach to the rafter tails. Fascia boards help prevent water from penetrating and rotting rafters, trusses, and other roof components. Also, gutters are typically attached to fascia boards.
Wood is the most frequently used material for fascia boards. However, if the wood is not kept adequately sealed or painted, the boards can rot. This can endanger the integrity of the gutters as well as the other roof components. When choosing new roofing homeowners often decide to have vinyl or aluminum fascia boards installed to eliminate the maintenance required by wood. Homeowners who choose fiber cement siding usually decide to have fiber cement fascia boards installed as well.
What Are the Soffits?
Soffits stretch between the wall and the edge of the eaves to cover rafter beams and eaves. Soffits have three primary functions.
1. Soffits help keep nuisance wildlife and other pests out of the attic, which can be an ideal place for the establishment of nests.
2. They prevent water from entering the attic or leaking behind your siding. Water penetration can damage your home’s structural components, but it can also encourage the growth of toxic mold.
3. When they are properly installed, soffits help ventilate the attic. Good air circulation is essential if you want to avoid condensation that can damage your roofing system and negatively impact your home’s air quality.
Like fascia boards, soffits are available in a range of materials. Wood soffits will require the same attention as wood fascia boards. Vinyl, plastic, and aluminum soffits are also available and are almost entirely maintenance-free. Although many Austin residential roofing customers choose the same material for both soffits and fascia boards, different materials can be selected. Sometimes, the decision is based on cost, but in other cases, the choice of different materials is made to add architectural interest to the home.
Why Do Homeowners Throughout Central Texas Trust Alpha for Their Roofing Needs?
As a highly regarded roofing contractor offering both residential and commercial services, Alpha Roofing has built an extraordinary reputation for providing quality work and exceptional service at affordable rates. We offer virtually any roofing service that homeowners may need, including asphalt shingle installation, emergency roof repair, metal roofing systems, chimney repair, flashing installation and repair, skylight installation, chimney repair, moss and debris removal, flat roof replacement, and siding installation. We offer free quotes, so request yours by submitting our online form or calling 512-777-1086.