What is Fascia?

What is the difference between fascia and soffit?

The eaves of a roof are self-explanatory, right? That is the part of the roof that hangs out past the exterior of the house. Some houses have wood, other houses have had siding installed over them so they won’t need painting again. But what are the fascia and soffit, are they the same thing? 

First, no, fascia and soffit are two different things, but one needs the other to function as needed. The soffit is installed under the rafter tails, which creates the roof eaves we just mentioned.  

The fascia is what is installed on the ends of those rafters. The fascia is the final piece that encloses the roof so that the elements, critters, and insects can’t get into the attic. While it is part of the architectural element, providing that finished look, it is an important part of the roof. 

What is the purpose of fascia? Is fascia needed?

As we said, the fascia is the finishing piece to your roof. It closes off the open rafters and keeps the elements, critters, and insects out. It gives the roof a completed, finished appearance aesthetically.  To summarize the purpose of fascia on a house in addition to closing of the roof eave’s underside: 

• It is where the gutter system is secured, providing the gutter runs stabilization.
• It keeps water off the roof deck so that it can’t get in the attic.
• Adds to the curb appeal by hiding the rafter ends 

So, yes, it is needed. Will your roof collapse without it, no, but your home will be subjected to the climate, mainly rain, ice, and snow, getting into the attic and under the roof decking and causing mildew, mold, and other types of damage. 

Where does fascia go?

The fascia is a long, straight board that is installed by the roofing contractor along the low part of the roof edge. It is installed directly to the roof trusses’ lower ends, with the primary job of supporting that lower edge and the bottom row of roofing material. 

Are there different types of fascia?

At one time, wood was the only type of facia, and it is still widely used. However, because it needs to be repainted or stained every few years, it tends to age prematurely if it isn’t. Today, there are other types of fascia materials that are more popular: 

• Aluminum or Vinyl 

Since aluminum or vinyl siding has become the go-to for most homeowners, the wood fascia is covered as well. This allows the homeowner to select a color that matches the siding and completes the curb appeal they desire. Aluminum or vinyl wrapped fascia benefits include: 

• Minimal maintenance required
• Curb appeal is enhanced
• Weather resistant
• Longer lifespan than wooden fascia

• Composite 

Composite fascia is made from recycled wood chips and sawdust that are bonded with epoxy resin. They are more expensive than the aluminum or vinyl-covered wood fascia, but they aren’t rot-resistant and must be painted. 

• Fiber-Cement

Fiber-cement fascia is rot and warp-resistant and available in a smooth finish, or you can choose a wood grain and texture simulation. They come unpainted or prefinished. 

• PVC 

When we think PVC, we typically think of plumbing, but PVC is actually a material that can be molded into many things, including fascia. PVC fascia is found on newer buildings or for replacing wood fascia. 

How is fascia installed?

The fascia board is attached to the rafter ends, usually by being nailed in place. Most fascia boards will have a lip where the soffit fits, and then the fascia is affixed to the house in a means suitable for the exterior of the house, depending on if it is brick, siding, wood, etc. 

What are the benefits of fascia?

We’ve talked about various benefits of fascia, but let’s recap it as we wind down this article: 

• Protects the home from the weather 
• Prevents critters from nesting in the attic 
• Improve the aesthetics of the home 
• Reduces roofline maintenance
• Avoids more damage to the home 
• Help the energy efficiency of the home