In general, your roof should have at least a square foot of attic ventilation for every 300 square feet of attic floor. If your roof doesn’t have enough air vents, warm air is trapped inside your attic, creating a damp environment that’s the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Not to mention increased roof temperatures caused by inadequate ventilation can shorten your roof’s lifespan. 

In addition to air vents, your roof should also have soffit boards. But what are soffit vents, and what is their purpose? 

How Soffit Boards Protect Your Home

In a sense, soffit boards help your roof breathe. They’re installed under the fascia board (the long straight board that holds your gutters) and have holes that allow fresh, cool air to enter from the bottom part of your roof. 

How to Choose a Soffit Board

In addition to providing adequate ventilation, soffit boards also serve as a barrier that prevents water from infiltrating your roof. But for soffit boards to do their job, they need to be durable enough to handle the local climate. That’s why it’s important to choose a soffit material that’s suited to the local climate. 

Here’s an overview of the most widely used soffit materials: 

• Vinyl – Vinyl is the most affordable option. And, compared to other materials, vinyl has fewer maintenance needs.
• Timber – Timber soffit boards are a good choice if you’re trying to reduce your home’s carbon footprint.
• Aluminum – Most contractors recommend installing aluminum soffit boards for homes in areas that receive high rainfall. That’s because lightweight aluminum is durable and resistant to a wide range of moisture issues, including rot. Not to mention that it doesn’t need a lot of upkeep.

To learn more about your soffit options, consult a professional residential and commercial roofing contractor. 

Looking for experienced roofers near you? 

Christian Brothers Roofing has more than two decades of experience in the roofing industry. We offer a wide range of professional roofing services, including storm damage roof repair services. To get a free estimate, call us at (270) 715-1999, or fill out this form.