Common Soffit Issues To Keep an Eye Out For

The soffit board helps protect your new roof installation against moisture damage. Cool air enters your roof through the holes in soffit boards and pushes out warm, humid air through the vents. Without adequate ventilation, humid air is trapped inside your roof, creating a damp environment that’s the perfect breeding ground for mold that can easily affect other parts of your building.

But like other parts of your roof, the soffit board can be affected by several issues, which include:

• Moisture damage – Ice dams not only prevent water from being diverted away from your roof but also may cause water to back up into the soffit board. Your soffit board’s susceptibility to moisture damage varies depending on the material used to manufacture it. For instance, timber soffit boards are more vulnerable to frost and moisture damage than rust-resistant aluminum soffit boards. Remember: always choose a material that can handle your area’s climate. For instance, most contractors would recommend fiber cement siding for homes in temperate climates, thanks to its resistance to extreme temperatures.

Important note: Ice dams may be a sign your roof or attic doesn’t have enough insulation or ventilation. If there are thick ice dams forming near the edge of your roof, you should have a professional roofer conduct a roof inspection.

• Dry rot – If you have timber soffit boards installed, make sure to keep an eye out for dry rot, a type of fungus that’s usually found in timber with moisture content in excess of 20%. This fungus weakens timber’s rigidity, eventually causing cracks to form.
• Pest damage Soffit boards are the ideal nesting space for pests that are attracted to small, dark spaces. Large pests are always a cause for concern because they can further damage to your roof, not to mention pose a health hazard.

Why Routine Roof Maintenance Is a Must

Keep in mind the warning signs of the aforementioned are not always visible from ground-level, which is why it’s important to follow a maintenance routine for your roof.

Timberland™ Exteriors, an A+-rated contractor with the Better Business Bureau®, offers professional exterior services, including roof and window installation service options. To get a free estimate, call us at these numbers: (651) 404-2330, (952) 373-5145, (218) 366-9433, or (715) 203-8040. You can also leave us a message here. We serve homeowners in Maplewood, MN, as well as the surrounding communities.