Having proper information about vented soffits can make or break a home’s ventilation and drainage system. Whether inspecting a home for needed repairs or building a new home, every little detail about a house counts. While some elements support a home’s value, others also add to its structural integrity.

What is A Soffit Anyway?

Many homeowners have no idea what a soffit is. They recognize it when they see it, but do not know its name or its purpose. A home’s soffiting runs underneath the eaves and gutter of a home. It is simply the piece of molding or siding attached to the underside of the roof that faces downward and is visible along the roofs edge. Generally the soffiting is vented, but sometimes it is a plain piece of material.

Purpose of a Home’s Soffit Vents

A home’s soffits make up an integral part of a home’s venting and drainage system. Proper venting is important to allow air to flow away from walls and to help a home’s cooling system. They also help to drain water and debris away from a home’s walls and siding, keeping mold and mildew at bay and preventing water damage to walls and interior structure.

Types of Soffit Material

The market contains many options for vented soffits. Soffit paneling mainly comes in steel, aluminum or plastic materials. It can be purchased in vented or non-vented styles and in large pieces or smaller connected pieces. The type of soffit also differs depending on whether the soffit is along a wall or near a corner. Some claim that the best soffit material is made of a material called fiber cement. Colors are limited, as most homeowners merely want to match soffit coloring to drains. Soffit material can be painted, but builders recommend keeping it as it is bought so as not to block or damage venting and material structure.

How to Find Soffit Material

Check with a local hardware store, roofing supplier or building expert concerning proper vented soffits and the best ventilation methods. While a small part of a home’s structure, proper soffit material, application and supporting structures can save thousands later on when it comes to water damage and proper home ventilation. A local person or reputable website will be more than happy to help any homeowner when it comes to their home’s structural soundness. Homeowners with proper building knowledge might install their own soffiting material, but contacting a professional is always the best option for proper installation.