Aluminum soffit panels have their own advantages. The presence of soffits depends upon the type of roof. Soffits, if you do not already know, are the underside of an architectural structure such as arches and roof overhangs. Aluminum soffits have the advantage of being leak-proof and rust-proof. They can last for years, even decades. They suffer very little from exposure as compared to wooden soffits. You can also get a continuous hidden vent soffit for ensuring better air circulation in the attic.
Because aluminum does not rust, it does not get weak nor does it discolor the boards that it comes in contact with. This eliminates the need for frequent painting of the gutters and exposed wooden boards.
Soffits and fascia can be installed as a DIY job. Prefinished aluminum panels are easy to fit on to the underside. You can easily place them over existing wood soffits in far less time than it would take to repair, paint, and replace the wood. The most important thing to do is to ensure that the roof is not suffering from any kind of water damage. Do not cover any part of the roof if there are leakages or where ice formations can happen. Once covered, the ice formation and water damage will accelerate roof damage. So, repairing the roof before placing aluminum soffits is not just recommended, it is essential. Consider using wide width panels, you’ll be using fewer of them. Perforated or vented panels are preferred by installers as they allow of circulation of air while keeping the insects out.
Preparation work for aluminum soffit panels is important and may involve removing the gutters, remove these carefully as they may be reusable. Many home owners replace the fascia and soffits at the same time but it does not have to be that way. Look up DIY forums for detailed information on how to install aluminum soffit panels.
