When asked about the parts of the roof they are most familiar with, most people would probably answer with gutters or shingles, or the parts that are visible or easily recognizable. However, the roof is much more complex and much more than just its most popular components.
In this article, solar panel installation contractor Ashmen Installations Inc. talks about the soffit, one of the most underrated yet essential parts of a roofing system.
What Are Soffits?
Interesting fact: soffit comes from the Latin word ‘suffixus’, which means fixed underneath. This makes sense, since soffits are installed between the roof’s eaves, fascia, and gutters. Think of soffits as the roof’s underbelly. They’re not designed to look flashy. Soffits are there to serve as a passive source of ventilation for your attic.
Before the existence of soffits, homes utilized vents to manage and create air flow. However, these vents only circulated the air in specific locations on the roof, promoting mold growth in the areas that didn’t receive ample air circulation. Roofing and solar contractors would tell you that mold is one of the major culprits when it comes to roof rot and poor air quality, so preventing or eliminating the problem altogether will spare you from headaches and costly repairs.
Needless to say, soffits play an important role in keeping your roof intact and your home’s indoor air quality up to par. Apart from promoting better air circulation, soffits also act as a barrier that helps keep pests like squirrels and birds from nesting in your attic. These critters not only present risks of damage to your roof, they can also tamper with your electrical system.
While soffits may appear unobtrusive, they play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of roofing systems everywhere. It goes without saying that soffits need to be installed properly. If you want roofing services done right, don’t hesitate to contact Ashmen Installations Inc. We are one of the most trusted roofing and solar companies in the area. Call us today at (877) 274-6361 to get a free estimate.