32% of all homeowners in the United States have been putting off at least one home improvement job for 12 months or more.
One home improvement that's often overlooked is soffit installation. Whether you're putting it in for the first time or replacing it, this post is for you.
Keep reading to learn more about what soffit is, why it's important, and what the installation process looks like.
What is Soffit?
Soffit is an architectural term that refers to the underside of a roof which extends beyond the walls. Although it doesn't necessarily help with curb appeal, there are some important benefits to having soffit installed in your home.
Air Circulation
Air circulation in your ceiling is important for preventing mold growth. Soffits allow for increased airflow in these spaces. This helps protect your home and your health from molds.
Pest Prevention
If these overhanging areas of your home are left exposed or not well-taken care of, they can become an entry point for various pests such as ants, bees, and wasps.
To avoid these pests from becoming a problem, you can keep them out by installing soffit and keeping up on maintenance.
Temperature Regulation
In the summer, heat can become trapped in your attic or ceiling, keeping your house cooler. This can also help you save on energy bills as trapped heat can compete with air conditioning.
Soffit Installation Process
Because of the difficulty of the location of soffit, it can be tricky to install yourself. However, it's not impossible. Here's how to install soffit on your home:
- Prepare for the installation by buying enough materials, removing trim and gutters, and ensuring that the structure is sound
- Install receiving channels along the wall. Make sure they're level with the fascia and are nailed every 8 - 12 inches
- Cut the soffit panels to size
- Install the panels by inserting one end into the receiving channel and nailing the other end to the fascia
- Cover the exposed fascia with trim
Keep in mind these are only to give you an overview of the process. The exact installation process will vary depending on your home and what materials you're using.
When to Call Professionals
Although it's possible to install soffit yourself, you may choose to hire a professional to do the job instead. Here are a few reasons why you'll want to call a professional:
- Unable to safely perform the work
- Lack of proper equipment
- Limited amount of time to work
- No confidence in skills
Having a professional take care of this project for you can help you save a ton of time and can prevent you from making costly mistakes if this type of work is too far outside your comfort zone and skill set.
Want to Learn About More Soffit Products?
Now you know the process behind soffit installation. As you can see, it takes some work to get things started, but with patience and determination, you can do it yourself.
You can also see there is a time to call in a professional to ensure everything is installed properly.
If you want to learn more about soffit products, check out our blog. There, you can find tons of information on soffit and other products that will make this overlooked part of your home stand out.
