Your residential roofing system is made of different components that work together to effectively protect your home from weather elements like rain, snow and storms. In most homes, the roof extends past the exterior wall, forming a horizontal gap between the edge of the roof and siding. The underside of this gap, called eaves, is covered by the soffit.

What Is the Purpose of the Soffit?

Like other exterior elements of your home, soffit serves both a functional and decorative purpose. The main role of the soffit is to shield the rafters from elements. Warding off moisture reduces the chance of mold growth and prolongs the life of other building materials. Soffit may also help promote sufficient ventilation in the attic to improve indoor air quality and increase the energy efficiency of your home.

Aesthetically, soffit adds character to the roofing system. Available in a range of colors and designs, it helps make the façade of the residence more attractive whether you’re standing across the street or unwinding on the porch.

Common Soffit Issues

While many roofing problems are often associated with curling shingles or rusted flashing, roof rot normally occurs at the soffit. Its location makes it an easy target for mold and other water-related damage and, therefore, should be inspected regularly. Common problems that contribute to soffit damage include:

Missing shingles and improperly installed flashing
Clogged or dislodged gutters
Ice dams
Pests and small animals, such as birds or squirrels, nesting in the soffit
Separation from the eaves

If you need to repair or replace your soffit, there’s a high chance that there are also a number of issues with the underlying structure. Be sure to address soffit damage as soon as possible in order to avoid bigger and more costly problems down the line.

For top-rated exterior services like roof maintenance and roof replacement, turn to BSR. Our certified team delivers industry-leading products and outstanding customer service to ensure the comfort and satisfaction of each and every client. Call us at (607) 678-3611, or fill out our contact form to request a free, no-obligation estimate. We serve in Ithaca, NY, and other surrounding communities.