A soffit is the part of a roof that extends beyond the outside walls of a building. As you can see from the image above, there are loads of spaces where pests can nest, and attack the timbers overhead.
It has become customary to enclose these features, in which case we speak of enclosed, as opposed to open soffits. But is important to seal those closed soffits thoroughly, to prevent them becoming cosy homes for other creatures.
Why You Can’t Just Enclose and Forget
The soffit materials in the above photo are natural wood. The owner is doing a great job of keeping those timbers protected with sealer. However, they will need to repeat this every couple years, as you can see from the slight peeling.
For if they don’t keep their hand to it, then boring insects will find a way through. Rain-driven moisture will follow. Damp wood rot will gradually seize hold. This will eventually spread up the roof timbers, compromising the entire structure.
How to Keep The Bugs Out of Your Roof
If your home does not already have soffits, then it may make sense to retrofit them, provided you seal them correctly that is. If, on the other hand you already have soffits, then they are not entirely maintenance free. This is on account of the persistent pressure of climate, insects, and rodents. Here’s what you need to do:
- Inspect your soffits before the spring rains come. Did they cope well with the ravages of winter? Better check the eavestroughs and roof coverings while you are at it. Roofs take the harshest treatment of any part of the average house.
- Examine your soffit lining especially carefully. Can you spot any smudge lines suggesting a ‘game trail’. Some insects can worm their way through the tiniest holes. Be alert for any cracks developing in the sealant.
- Wash your soffit surfaces down gently, but firmly. Be persistent in the corners. You want your home to look good, but you also to need to uncover any defects before they get worse. Tidy up as you go along with an exterior grade sealant.
What to Do If You Don’t Like What You See
If you come across anything during your inspection that concerns you (or there’s a repair you should not be doing yourself) why not contact Valiant Exteriors in Calgary. We are the family-owned business with a great reputation for quality we are proud of. We’d love to add you to our growing list o satisfied customers.
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Fine Example of a Soffit Overhang (Pedro Zing BY Public Domain)
