Keeping your roofing in Columbus in perfect shape can be a tough assignment, especially this winter. Nevertheless, you’ll likely be faced with necessary repairs, especially to your soffit, as we move into spring.
So, what’s a soffit, you ask? Located below the eaves, the soffit is the overhang of your roof where the roof and sidewalls meet. Sometimes this area can become damaged from moisture or pest/animal infestation. If left untreated, the damage can spread to adjoining soffits and other areas of your roof.
Inspecting
Before planning a soffit repair, inspect all soffit areas so you know what you’re dealing with. Find and mark the damage. Use a ladder and ensure the ground below is flat so that you can safely move about.
Beginning the Repair
When repairing the soffit on your roofing, you’ll need to first remove the molding in front of the soffit to get to the damaged area. In some cases, the molding may already be torn or rotted away. Find the soffit seam and, using a utility knife, cut along that seam for the easiest removal. You should be able to remove the soffit by pulling it with your hands. Be sure to wear work gloves to prevent injury and splinters.
Choosing a Soffit Material
While older homes might have wooden soffits, newer ones use uPVC materials. This plastic does not need to be painted and can be easily cleaned. The maintenance is less than wood. Wood, however, offers a more traditional look for your roofing in Columbus and can be painted any color to match your trim and siding.
Removing Wood
Once the soffit is removed from your roofing in Columbus, you can begin to inspect the wood boards underneath. Try to probe with an awl, as rotted fascia can be poked through. If the wood boards are rotted as well, try using a crow bar to loosen and remove them.
Installing a New Soffit
First, measure the area that needs to be repaired. Replace the wood boards with a piece of lumber cut to size. Add new trim/molding to the repaired area. If cutting a uPVC soffit, use tin snips to cut the soffit to size. Install it over the wood board, sliding into the channel of the trim. Use nails to fasten the soffit into place. The nails should be placed at least six inches apart. Then, caulk along the seam of the house.
Finish Work
Once completely repaired and installed, the soffit area is ready to be primed and painted. Just make sure the wood is dry and the weather conditions are ideal.
For professional assistance repairing a rotted or damaged soffit, contact Able Roofing. As one of the largest and most respected roofing companies in the region, Able Roofing has perfected roofing and beyond. Contact us today for a free consultation.
