How to Know if Soffits Are Damaged

Determining whether a soffit is damaged lets you know when to hire a contractor to remedy the problem. A soffit is the underside of a structure, and on a house it is the area underneath the eave overhangs. It is the most likely area to experience weather damage in a structure, as noted by Advanced Roofing Services. Damaged soffits look unattractive and reduce the curb appeal of your home. They also make the structure vulnerable to further damage from inclement weather or animals, such as squirrels and birds.

Flashlight

Instructions

- 1
  Walk around the perimeter of your home to inspect the soffits. Do this on a sunny day or with a flashlight.
- 2
  Look for peeling paint, rotten or soggy wood or mold. Peeling paint does not protect the structure adequately. Soggy or rotten wood or the presence of mold indicates a moisture problem that requires repair before further problems develop.
- 3
  Remove any nests from birds or squirrels that you spot in the soffit area. Damage may be evident only upon removal.The animals often chew the soffit area, build nests and eventually gain entry into your home. This also makes the area vulnerable to further damage from weather exposure.
- 4
  Inspect the soffits for any rust if your home is not constructed of wood. Repair the rust, according to the instructions provided with your aluminum or vinyl siding, before it worsens. Another option is to call a service technician to make the repairs.
- 5
  Hire a contractor to repair minor damage or fix it yourself if you are familiar with this type of work. Preventing further damage in this way saves you money on costly major repairs in the future.

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