DIY Soffit System

Extend a measuring tape from the front of the wall to the fascia trim’s back along a roof truss or rafter to determine the soffit width.

Cut the 4-by-8-foot luan panels to the noted width so they cover the eaves from the front to the back.

Measure and mark 6 inches from the narrow edge of the rectangular panels, and mark a 12-inch square with a marker. Use a carpenter’s level to ensure the lines are straight. Carefully cut along the marks using a circular saw to form vent holes. Repeat this process to form vent holes over half the luan boards.

Pour latex paint into a paint pan. Insert a medium-nap roller into the paint and roll it until it is completely covered.

Apply an even coat of paint over the surface of each luan board that will be exposed using the roller. Ensure you completely cover it with paint, including its edges and sides. Allow the paint to dry according to the time specified on the label’s directions, and then apply another coat over the boards to achieve a bold color. Leave the paint to dry thoroughly.

Set a luan board with its narrow edge inside the gable, ensuring its painted side faces downward. Use three to four staples to secure the board to the rafter, which is installed at 2-foot intervals along the span of the roof.

Set a second board with the vent hole flush against the previous piece, and repeat the process of stapling it to the rafters. Continue this process of butting panels against each other and stapling them to the rafters. Alternate between full panels and those with vent holes, so every other panel features a vent.

Center and lower a 1-foot vent grille over a soffit hole. Use a drill to insert a 1 1/4-inch deck screw into each of the four screw holes around the vent to secure them in place.

Seal the gaps between soffit panels and edges using a caulking gun and painter’s caulk. Insert a thin bead of caulk into the gap, and press it with your damp thumb to work it in.