Vented vs Solid Soffit, What's the Difference?

 

Vented vs Solid Soffit, What's the Difference?

 
 
 

1. Where is Soffit Installed?

  • First let’s talk about where the different types of soffit are installed on your home. Vented soffit is typically installed on the “eaves” of your home. These are the horizontal runs of your roof line and are typically where your gutters are also installed. Solid soffit is typically installed on the “rakes” of your home. These would be the peaks/gables or diagonal runs of your roof line.

fascia and soffit.JPG
 

2. Why Are There Different Types of Soffit?

Each type of soffit has an important job for your home. Here are the differences between vented and solid soffit:

  • Vented soffit has holes in a grate like pattern that allow for air to travel through the soffit and ventilate through your home’s roof ridge vents. A ridge vent is the raised area along the top of your roof that allows the cool air that comes through your soffit vent to push the hot air in your attic out through the roof ridge vent. It is very important that your attic has the proper ventilation to prevent excessive moisture and higher energy bills. In addition, vented soffit allows for a much cleaner look over the unsightly vents that are found on older homes.

  • Solid soffit has no holes and is a solid board, just as it sounds! It is used on the rakes for curb appeal since there is no need for unsightly holes for ventilation in these areas.

 

3. What Type of Material is Soffit?

Typically the type of soffit used directly correlates with the type of siding you are installing. Soffit is offered in a variety of vinyl and fibercement options as well as sizes and colors. We recommend installing James Hardie fibercement soffit in conjunction with their fibercement siding system. James Hardie soffit is offered in primed and several factory painted options as well as different widths. 

 

In Conclusion:

As you can see, the soffit on your home serves not only for great curb appeal but for a safe and efficient home. Have more questions about the soffit on your home or need a free inspection of your homes soffit? Give one of our remodeling experts a call today!

 
Lauren Shuppy