The Difference between Eavestroughs, Soffit, and Fascia
Toronto weather requires a reliable and well-installed eavestrough system. Without eavestroughs, your home is at risk of water infiltration, which could lead to foundation damage. Soffit and fascia board also comes in handy in preventing mould growth in the attic. Most people do not differentiate between eavestroughs, soffit, and fascia board, and the role these elements play in your home.
The Role of Eavestroughs
The primary role of eaves is to redirect rainwater away from your home’s foundation. Eavestrough prevents water infiltration, the leading cause of mould growth and cracks in the foundation. You will significantly reduce the likelihood of foundation damage by redirecting rainwater away from your home. A blocked eavestrough can no longer play its role effectively. Below are some of the benefits of a properly functioning eavestrough:
- They extend the life of the roofing material
- Eavestroughs protect your home’s structural integrity
- They enhance proper ventilation of the attic and the roof
- Prevents the build-up of moisture beneath the roof
- Preventing intrusion by small animals and insects
- Add value to your property
Your eavestrough will only function optimally if you keep it in a good working condition. This involves paying attention to any impending repairs and cleaning the eavestrough regularly. Another way to preserve the eavestroughs and maintain their functionality is by installing eavestrough guards to prevent the collection of debris and clogging.
When you’ve noticed that water is not draining properly from your home, you will face costly and detrimental consequences, including:
- Damage to the roof structure
- Heaving in the walkways and driveways
- Rotting of the fascia and soffit
- Mould and mildew growth in the attic
- Basement flooding and foundation damage
- Mosquitoes breeding in the stagnant water
- Flooding and damage to the yard and the landscaping
- Staining on the ceiling and interior walls
The Role of Soffit
A soffit consists of a huge aluminum plate placed under the outside edge of the roof, beneath the eavestrough. The soffit plays the role of protection, aesthetics and enhances ventilation in the attic. This system facilitates airflow and helps maintain an ideal temperature in the attic. The soffit also plays an important role in preventing frost thaw activity and water seeping, mainly during the winter season. The soffit acts as a barrier that prevents insects from entering the attic. The soffit puts a magnificent finish and a touch of class on your roof in terms of aesthetics.
However, the most important role of the soffit is to enhance ventilation. Proper ventilation prevents the creation of moisture, which consequently prevents the growth of mould and mildew. Mould is unlikely to grow in a well-ventilated environment. With proper air circulation, there is a lower chance of the formation of icicles at the edge of the roof.
Soffits are made from different materials, including aluminum and vinyl. Compared to vinyl, aluminum is more expensive but also more durable.
The Role of Fascia
Fascia and soffit go hand-in-hand but play different roles. Fascia consists of a long piece of aluminum, painted in the same colour as the roof since it will be visible from outside. You fasten the eavestrough on the fascia to create a leak-proof space between the roof and the soffit. Creating a waterproof space prevents the seepage of rain, snow, and debris.
Fascia plays an important role in enhancing the curb appeal of your home. Aluminum is a better option than vinyl and wood because of its durability and ease of installation. Moreover, aluminum is also adaptable to the changing seasons.
The three systems are complementary; they work together to protect your roof and your foundation. Even if these elements are an option, you shouldn’t risk not having them since they will protect your home from potential damage. They help you avoid unexpected repairs that could cost you a lot of money.
The Difference between Eavestrough and Gutter
Many people are familiar with the word gutter and gutter systems. However, most people aren’t familiar with eavestroughs. The majority of people assume that gutters and eavestroughs are the same things; therefore, they use these terms interchangeably. What is the difference between gutters and eavestroughs?
Just like the name suggests, an eavestrough consists of a trough attached to the eaves of a building. The eavestrough drains water away from the roof and the foundation. A gutter also plays the same role of draining water from the roof or the foundation. Most people use the term eavestrough while referring to the metal attachments on the sides of the roof. They use the term gutter while referring to drainage systems that run along the side of the road.
The term gutter could also refer to an overall drainage system where water from all the housing units collects for disposal. Over time, people started using the terms gutter and eavestrough interchangeably; now, most people can’t tell the difference. Another term that people use is the eaves gutter.
The process of installing new eavestroughs is known as eavestroughing, while installing new gutters is known as guttering.
Bottom Line
Perhaps you have been using the terms eavestroughs and gutters without knowing what they mean. Despite being different and having distinct ways of functioning, eavestroughs and gutters play the same role in draining water from the roof. The bottom line is that it is important to maintain your eavestroughs and gutters to keep them in good working condition. You should seek professional eavestrough repair services whenever you notice anything unusual. Professional eavestrough repair services include but aren’t limited to:
- Replacing or upgrading the existing eavestroughs
- Soffit and fascia repair and replacement
- Resealing separated seams and repairing pinhole leaks
- Readjusting the eavestrough angles or slope for optimum drainage
- Reinforcing the eavestroughs that might be loose or sagging
For more information on eavestroughs, soffit, and fascia, including all aspects of eavestrough installation in Toronto, contact Trades by Jack. We will be glad to guide you and ensure that your eavestroughs are functioning the way they should.
