Quick answer
Fascia is the board along the roof edge that the gutters attach to; soffit is the panel underneath the roof overhang. Together they protect the rafter ends, keep animals out and — when vented — let air into the attic. Peeling paint, soft wood, sagging gutters, gaps and animal activity are signs they need repair.
Soffit and fascia don’t get much attention until something goes wrong — but they protect the edge of your roof and help your attic breathe.
What fascia does
Fascia boards cap the ends of the rafters and give gutters something solid to attach to. When they rot, gutters sag and water gets into the roof structure.
What soffit does
Soffit closes the underside of the roof overhang. Vented soffit lets fresh air into the attic, working with ridge vents to carry heat and moisture out.
Signs of trouble
- Peeling paint or soft, spongy wood
- Gutters pulling away from the house
- Sagging, cracked or missing soffit panels
- Birds, squirrels, bats or bees getting into the attic
- Water stains on the siding below the roofline
Repair or replace?
Small areas of rot can be cut out and replaced. When rot is widespread, replacing the boards and wrapping them in aluminum or using PVC ends the cycle. Learn more about our soffit & fascia repair or call (908) 636-9745.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between soffit and fascia?
Fascia runs vertically along the edge of the roof and supports the gutters. Soffit is the horizontal underside of the overhang between the fascia and the house.
Should soffit be vented?
In most homes, yes. Vented soffit supplies the intake air an attic needs to stay cool and dry, which helps shingles last and reduces ice dams.
What is the best material for fascia?
Aluminum-wrapped or PVC fascia is low-maintenance and won’t rot, which makes it a good long-term choice for shore homes.