Cutting the Eaves for Soffit Vents

Go into the attic and check the area above the soffits for obstructions. Put on work gloves and remove any insulation above the installation area. Asbestos can be found in certain vermiculite insulation in older houses; do not move it until you have a sample tested at a reputable laboratory.

Lay a piece of cardboard on a flat surface and place one of the soffit vents on top. Draw around the outline of the vent, as a template. Draw a second outline inside the first, 1/2-inch smaller than the original. Cut out the smaller shape.

Place a ladder directly underneath the eaves. Find the roof studs using a stud finder or by locating the screws or nail heads on the eaves. Cutting into the roof studs can deteriorate the structural integrity of the roof.

Place the template on the roof, between studs, about 3 inches in from the edge of the roof, and tape it in to place. Draw the template outline onto the soffit. Remove the template.

Put on a face mask and goggles. Drill a hole at one corner of the template outline with a 5/8-inch drill bit. Repeat the process at each corner. Insert the jigsaw into one hole, and cut along the lines. Remove the piece, and install the vent with the open slats facing the house.