How to Install UPVC Soffits and Fascias

Soffits and fascias can become worn out and tired over time, which means that you need to replace them to prevent further damage. Getting this job done professionally can be quite expensive, but it doesn’t have to be.

Installing UPVC soffits and fascias is a relatively easy job that leaves you with not only modern and contemporary styling which requires very little maintenance, but money left in your pocket! You don’t have to worry about repainting the soffits and fascias every year, as a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep them looking great.

Installing UPVC Soffits and Fascias

Health and Safety Notice: Whenever working at height it is essential you take due care. We do not recommend that you work from a ladder and advise the use of appropriate scaffolding.

Step 1: Prepare the site

The first thing you need to do is clear the side of the building of guttering; you can go to work removing the old, knackered boards.

To do this you will need to remove the first row of roof tiles and then cut back the existing felt to expose the roofing timber. You then should use a crowbar to remove the old fascia and soffit boards, carefully cutting back any silicone sealant attaching the soffit boards to the building.

Shortcut: If you plan on cutting corners by fitting a UPVC fascia cover over an existing wood fascia board it is always a good idea to remove the existing soffit beforehand for easier access. The majority of existing soffits will simply slot into the inside of the fascia, making it a straightforward process.

Step 2: Fitting Soffits

Once the soffit and fascias have been removed, and the roofing timber has been inspected for signs of damage or rot, then you’re ready to fit the soffit boards. Make sure that you have carefully measured the length and width of each board to the section you are going to install it.

Fitting the soffit boards can be done using one of two methods:

Method 1: Use a hammer to nail the soffit to the underside of the timber. For the best finish, make sure you use stainless steel plastic capped nails or pins, depending on the thickness of your soffit.

Method 2: Fit the soffit into a UPVC channel which is attached to the wall of the house using screws or an adhesive.

Make sure that you leave a gap between each board so that you can insert a soffit join trim. Any gaps between the soffit and the rafter should be filled with timber packers to prevent them from moving.

Step 3: Fitting Fascias

Make sure that the fascia board sits level and covers the front of the soffit board, and then simply nail it onto the side of the rafters with stainless steel nails. Use two nails, evenly spaced, to prevent your fascias from buckling, pivoting or shifting.

The fascia needs to be firmly attached to the building as they will be holding the weight of roof tiles, guttering and rain.

It is a good idea to ensure that the fascia boards are not obstructing any windows from opening. If you find that this is the case then you will have to adjust the position of the boards and maybe even carefully trim back the rafters.

Step 4: Fit Eaves Vent and Felt

The task isn’t finished just yet as you need to install an eaves vent strip to the top of the fascia board, which is secured with nails. This helps to stop condensation, and therefore damp, from occurring in your roof.

Before replacing the roofing tiles you need to replace the felt that you cut away in step one. You could use traditional felt to do this, which is lightweight, easy to work with and simple to install.

Alternatively, you could use replacement eaves felt trays which tuck underneath the old roofing felt. These then overlap into the guttering to ensure that no water leaks onto the building off the roof.

Step 5: Finishing Up

That’s it, job done! All that’s left to do now is put the roof tiles back in place, clean off any excess silicon sealant and make sure that the whole unit is sealed for a neat finish.

Soffit boards and fascia boards are essential for modernising a home. Browse our range of soffits and fascias today, complete with both replacements and covers. 

For any other queries, let our experienced team know or browse our extensive range of products. If you find the same product anywhere else for less, we’ll refund the difference.