The roof may look like a simple structure, but it is actually a complex house feature composed of several parts that perform different functions. If you are doing a home renovation soon that involves your roof, you need to be familiar with all the components that make up your roofing solution. Understanding these parts will help you choose the ideal material for your renovation. 

One such component is the fascia—a part of the roof that many may have heard of, but most are unaware of what it actually is and does. To shed some light on it, here’s everything you need to know about the fascia, its role in keeping your house safe, and the different options available for your renovation project:

What Is a Fascia?

Step outside your house and look up to your roof ceiling. The long horizontal board under the roof edge you see is what you call the fascia. The panel is attached directly to the lower ends of the roof trusses and usually holds up the gutter, and is typically the part of the roof you see if you look at it from a distance. 

Do not mistake it for the soffit! The soffit is the flat and wide material you will directly see when you look up at your roof from your doorstep, covering the bottom of the roof frames. The siding above it is the fascia board. 

Roofs need to have a fascia for many reasons, among which are the following:

• It supports the edge of the bottom row of your roof tiles or slates.
• It protects the soffit from other external elements.
• It keeps the moisture from entering your roof and house.
• It supports the gutter, especially when there is heavy rainfall.
• It, together with the soffit, keeps the critters away.
• It provides added home aesthetics by giving your roof its finish.

Roof Fascia Types: What Material Should You Invest In?

Fascia gives you a variety of options, which is perfect for home customization. They are made from different materials, such as wood, vinyl, aluminum, and fibre cement. Choosing which material should compose your home’s fascia will depend on your needs, budget, and overall preference.

Here are the highlights for each material:

• Wood: If you are prone to changing your home’s exterior often or you simply love occasional customization, using wood would be perfect for you. Wood materials are easy to paint over. Just make sure to choose a kind that can resist rotting and moisture absorption.
• Vinyl: Vinyl is a good choice for a highly durable material. It can withstand any weather or climate, and it is low maintenance. You only need to do occasional cleaning to keep it looking good.
• Aluminum: Here is another low maintenance material that is also easy to install. Aluminum is an environmentally friendly option that can also help you maximize your heating and cooling features at home.
• Fibre Cement: Another durable and low maintenance material is fibre cement. It is quite an expensive option, but you can also customize and change it into any colour you want. 

How to Keep Your Fascia in Good Shape

Periodically cleaning your fascia is the only thing you need to do to maintain it in good condition. If you take care of your gutters, your fascia will also benefit from it!

When Is Roof Fascia Repair Necessary?

Make sure to allot some time to inspect your fascia’s condition, as the constant exposure to the sun and the presence of rot can damage them. If you start to see any cracks, splinters, or if the colour is beginning to fade or change, it may be time for a little repair and retouch! Schedule a repair appointment with professionals to ensure that it gets the maintenance it needs to live out its service life.

Conclusion

Your roof is composed of different features and layers—all of which are essential to keeping the integrity of your home safe. The fascia boards, in particular, are more than aesthetically necessary for house roofs; these are also structurally relevant features for the roof to perform its function correctly. Make sure you include it in your regular roof inspections to keep your home in its best condition at all times!

Are you looking for different roof fascia types to choose from for your next home renovation? MCM Home Exteriors is a team of skilled installers who use only quality materials from reputable manufacturers. We have access to various fascia options to help you customize your home look. Connect with us today, and we will gladly help you with your home renovation project.