Learn the purpose of fascia on a house, and how it differs from trim and soffit.
Plus, learning the proper construction terminology makes it easier tocommunicate your goals to your contractor.
Learn what fascia is on a house and how it differs from other exterior features.
Credit:ADAM ALBRIGHT
What Is Fascia?
Still trying to differentiate between fascia and soffit?
Look at your roof from the front yard, and the fascia will be facing you.
Credit:Beth Singer
Next, look at your roof from beneath the eave, and the soffit will be facing you.
Fascia vs.
Trim: What’s the Difference?
The Purpose of Fascia
Fascia serves many different purposes on a home’s exterior.
Just like other trims, it can be used tomatch or contrast the siding.
However, these homes include other cladding in place to protect the interior of the home.
Beyond aesthetics, fascia protects the more vulnerable interiorroof componentsagainst mold, mildew, pests, and other threats.
Wood fascia is beautifulthere’s a reason other fascia materials mimic its looks.
PVC Fascia
PVC (the same PVC as the pipes) is a popular fascia material.
While PVC fascia is generally worry-free, it can be prone to cracking and fading in direct sun.
Like PVC, aluminum fascia won’t rot or succumb to pests.
Plus, you don’t have to worry about aluminum rusting because it isn’t a ferrous metal.
Vinyl Fascia
Vinyl fascia has similar qualities to PVC, although it is pricier.
It resists rot and decay, moisture damage, and pest issues.
Best of all, vinyl fascia doesn’t have to be painted.
Typically, maintaining vinyl fascia consists of cleaning it occasionally.
Fiber Cement Fascia
Another rot- and pest-resistant fascia material option is fiber cement.
This modern material consists of wood pulp permeated with cement or other composite materials.
This clever design gives fiber cement fascia a convincing wood look without the downsides.
