Common Soffit Issues to Look Out For

The components of a roof system are vulnerable to various types of damage, many of which can be avoided with routine maintenance. Homeowners must be able to spot potential issues as they arise so that they can be avoided or remedied as soon as possible.

The soffit and fascia are just two of the many roofing components that can be damaged if not properly inspected and maintained. Furthermore, leaving such problems unattended can lead to additional problems that will affect your roof’s functionality.

In this post, seamless gutter expert Deschutes Roofing discusses some soffit issues that you should look out for.

What is a Soffit?

The soffit is the paneling that runs around the perimeter of your home beneath the eaves. This paneling is typically used as part of the attic ventilation system, allowing air to flow through it. It can be made from fiber cement, steel, or wood, but aluminum and vinyl are usually the most popular soffit materials.

Soffit Issues to Look Out For

While missing or damaged shingles and rusted flashing are the most common issues requiring roofing repairs, rot can also be a roofing problem and it often starts at the soffit. The location of the soffit makes it prone to water damage, mold and rot. That’s why soffits should always be inspected during your annual roof inspections. Water that seeps through the material will wreak havoc on your soffit and beams.

The following are some of the most common causes of soffit damage:

• Squirrels, birds and other creatures nesting in the eave space
• Structural flaws such as missing shingles or improperly installed flashing
• A poorly installed, damaged or clogged gutter.

The space beneath the soffit is usually in a worse state if the soffit itself displays evidence of deterioration, such as rot, structural failure or separation from the eave. If you need to repair or replace the soffit, consider that the underlying structure may be damaged too.

Call Us Today!

Deschutes Roofing specializes in different types of roof systems, such as asphalt, metal, flat membrane and more. We also install seamless gutters, and we can guarantee top-notch workmanship for your project.

For inquiries, call us at any of these numbers: (541) 241-5720 (Bend), (503) 967-9590 (Portland), (541) 246-6860 (Eugene), (503) 468-7663 (Lake Oswego) or (503) 928-8750 (Beaverton). You can also fill out our contact form to request an estimate.