Assessing the cost of soffit replacement in advance can help homeowners get a better idea of what to expect for home improvement projects. Understanding the different soffit and fascia options on the market can ultimately help homeowners make a smart decision and install products that are better equipped to perform in the long run.
So, how much does soffit cost and which material is likely to last the longest? Take a look at this breakdown of residential soffit and fascia costs (we’ll look at aluminum, wood and vinyl) and find out how to explain if and why professional installation is worth the cost (spoiler: it is)
Cost to Replace Soffit and Fascia
The average material costs for fascia and soffit varies:
- Wood averages $1-$3 per linear foot
- Vinyl averages $5-$8 per linear foot
- Aluminum averages $8-$20 per linear foot
The labor costs for soffit and fascia installation can vary from contractor to contractor. Fascia installation costs range from $6 to $20 per linear foot, while soffit installation tends to be cheaper than fascia at $1 to $3 per linear foot. This cost difference is reflective of the relative complexity of the removal and installation process for each type of trim.
Though the difference in cost to install aluminum soffit versus wood or vinyl may seem large, it makes sense when you consider the long-term value and performance capabilities of these materials side by side.
- Wood can be susceptible to fire, moisture and mold, insect infiltration and requires frequent maintenance. To maintain a like-new appearance wood must be inspected, caulked, scraped and painted frequently.
- Vinyl is prone to impact and sun damage, which requires frequent checks to ensure that it’s still in good condition and doesn’t need replacement.
- Aluminum provides enhanced durability and versatility, quickly making up for its price difference with long-term performance and easy maintenance. Other qualities like fire resistance, moisture control, proper air circulation and resistance to pests and bugs will save homeowners money and time in the long-run.
Is Professional Soffit Installation Costs Worth the Price?
Homeowners know cutting out labor costs and doing the project themselves can lower the total soffit cost per linear foot. So, how do you explain that the professional installation costs of soffit are worth it?
The role of soffit is to cover the exposed rafters and protect homes from exterior threats, like rainwater and rodents. In addition, soffit protects the home and roof from mold and mildew, prevents ice damage, provides proper air circulation and gives your home a complete, clean look. Thus, proper installation is unconditionally necessary to ensure that the soffit can perform as intended and provide proper protection for the home.
Plus, with over 164,000 emergency room-treated injuries occurring from ladder accidents each year, hiring a professional keeps homeowners safe and allows the process to go more smoothly.
However, some shingle companies void their warranties if the attic is not properly ventilated. This is another reason why having a professional determine the correct amount of ventilation is important and can prevent costly roof repair or replacement.
Soffit Maintenance Costs
In addition to proper installation, the choice of soffit material will affect long-term performance as well — ultimately impacting the cost of soffit replacement.
To ensure they maintain an acceptable appearance, wood soffit and fascia require regular upkeep, like inspecting the wood fascia regularly for insect penetration, caulking any cracks or holes to prevent water/insect damage to underlying structure and scraping wood fascia prior to painting.
The total average cost of painting fascia can land between $500 and $1,000, making it a maintenance cost you do not want to overlook.
Vinyl tends to hold its color longer than wood, but will likely require routine checks as well to ensure that individual panels aren’t loose after storms or damaged by rodents or mold. Replacement panels may be necessary from time to time and should be accounted for in ongoing cost expectations for soffit maintenance. Aluminum needs very little attention and maintenance. It’s durable nature means that it will hold up to severe weather conditions without damage, and the fade-resistant color means no scraping or painting is needed. It’s also pest, rust and mold resistant, and it’s environmentally friendly. If you ever need to remove or replace it, it’s recyclable.
Hidden Costs for Soffit Replacement
Some homeowners may switch up their soffit for style or preventative measures. If replacing soffit and fascia because of damage, chances are there may be other areas that require immediate repairs as well.
Broken or moldy gutters, rotten or termite-ridden eaves, and other exterior damage may be necessary to fix while replacing the soffit and fascia. After all, it’s never a good idea to build on an unstable foundation.
Since the soffit is the outermost layer of the roof’s overhang, ensuring those other structural elements are in good condition is key. If you suspect deeper damage lies beneath the old soffit and fascia, it’s best to include those repairs in your soffit cost calculator, too.
The Most Valuable Soffit and Fascia Replacement Material
The slightly higher installation cost of aluminum soffit is worth the investment. It’s perfect for homeowners who want a long-lasting product that requires little to no maintenance if installed correctly.
Aluminum soffit and fascia products are much more durable than vinyl or wood. It is a versatile material that goes well with a variety of home exteriors, including vinyl siding, stone and brick. There is a wide variety of styles and colors available in aluminum. So it’s easy to find the style to protect and enhance a home’s exterior. Since aluminum is a longer-lasting product that is low maintenance, it provides better value in the long run, ultimately outweighing the upfront costs. Reach out to us today for more information on durable, long-lasting soffit and fascia products.