Are you getting ready to fix some damaged components on your roof? If so, replacing old and damaged fascia boards may be on the list. Other than being needed as part of your roof, what do you know about fascia boards?
When it comes time to replace or install fascia board for the first time, it’s essential to purchase quality products that will contribute to keeping your home dry and protected. If you’re buying fascia boards for the first time, then this post is a must-read.
What are Fascia Boards?
Essentially, fascia, also called fascia boards, can be defined as the horizontal timber board that runs along the edge of your roof. You’ll easily see it where the outer walls of the structure meet. Fascia boards are usually installed perpendicular to the soffit, which is what connects it to the outer walls.
Fascia boards are primarily used to support the roof structure as well as minimise extensive damage to your roof that’s usually caused by the harsh Australian elements. Since these boards are durable and strong, they can also be used to mount decorations and accessories. In most instances, home guttering systems are attached to the fascia.
For the most part, fascia boards can be made from one of four material types, listed as:
- Timber: This is the most common type of fascia material and is also the most affordable. You will see this option on roofs all around Australia. Timber fascia boards are typically made of wood species such as pine, cedar, and fir. These options are versatile and can be used no matter what the shape of your roof is. They can be painted to suit the décor of your home.
- Vinyl: This is a water-resistant and durable option that’s most commonly found in ready-to-install kits. When these become faded from the sun, they can easily be spray-painted.
- Composite: This material is made from a combination of dust, wood chips, and plastic that have been mixed with epoxy resin. These boards are durable but may require additional adhesion when they’re installed onto the roof.
- Aluminium: These boards are regarded by many as the most durable and are quick and easy to install.
Many Positives to Consider
There are several benefits to adding fascia to your home. Our team of experts have compiled a list of the most significant ones to know.
1. Offers Considerable Protection to Your Home
The number one reason why you’ll see fascia boards on your roof is that these robust boards are used to cover the gaps and openings between your roof and the exterior walls.
Fascia is durable enough to prevent rainwater and snow from getting in through these spaces.
If there aren’t fascia in these spaces, these elements would find their way into the interior of your home, which can lead to water damage. Aside from this, fascia also acts as an insulator by reducing the hot and cold air that comes in and leaves your home. Keeping your home insulated reduces the need for heating and cooling systems.
Quality fascia boards also protect the edges of your roof from the damage that can be caused by wind. Having the gaps in your roof closed will also deter pests from gaining access to your home.
2. Enhances the Aesthetics of your Home
Every homeowner wants the exterior of their home to look amazing. With this in mind, it’s not unusual to add decorations to exterior walls. Fascia boards can enhance the overall aesthetic of your home in several ways.
For starters, fascia creates a streamlined and seamless look to the roof by closing the ends of the panel points. This means that the fascia boards cover all the areas where the roof pieces are joined. You will usually see evidence of this on roofs with slopes where the fascia board stands out like a decoration.
More good news is that fascia boards are made from a wide range of different materials, colours, and designs. This means that you can choose a fascia board to suit your home’s overall design, enhancing and even accentuating your design choice.
3. Supports Roof Shingles
Facia boards can also be used to support the shingles on your roof. This keeps the shingles from sagging and breaking over time. This ensures that the internal structure of your home isn’t exposed to the elements.
4. Secures the Guttering System to the Roof
Gutters and downpipes form the crux of your roof’s drainage system. An effective drainage system keeps rainwater from entering your home and causing water damage. Fascia boards connect the roof to the guttering system, which allows the rainwater to wash off the roof without causing any excessive pooling.
Final Thoughts
It’s evident that fascia boards form an integral part of your home. Whether you’re using them to keep the elements out or simply to decorate your roof, it’s essential to invest in quality products. Speak to an agent at your local home improvement centre to help you choose the best and most durable option for your home.