Why fascia boards are important.
First and foremost, what is a fascia board? A fascia board is a flat board that runs vertically along the roofline. It is important because it not only serve an aesthetic purpose, but it also serves a structural one. It protects the edge of the roof from moisture penetration. Excessive moisture causes rot and decay. There are many different types of fascia boards, which is why it’s important to choose the right one.
Solid wood is a very popular choice for fascia boards because of its overall curb appeal. However, even within the solid wood category, there are a variety of options when it comes to fascia board. This can make it difficult to know how to choose the right one. Here are a few things to consider when choosing from different types of fascia boards.
Considerations for choosing different types of fascia boards.
- Consider the Climate: When considering which fascia board is best for you, it’s important to consider the climate of your project. Will the fascia boards be subject to excessive moisture? If so, it’s best to consider a preservative treated fascia board such as Belco XT® Trim. Belco’s preservative treated products are supported with a 20-year warranty.
- Ease of Installation: Natural wood boards are lighter than other options. This makes the fascia board easier to install. In fact, when installing Belco XT® Trim, only one installer is needed. Natural wood boards are also easier to cut. They do not require any special equipment or safety gear.
- Curb Appeal: If you want to paint your fascia board, your best option is an SPF fascia board that is primed, and preservative treated. There are other available options, such as cedar, but it is often more expensive. Southern Yellow Pine is used occasionally, but it’s subject to unwanted knots as well as loose grain patterns, and lacks durability. There are also other man-made wood fascia board options available. However, if you want your board to retain its natural beauty, it’s important to choose a dependable and preservative treated product.
- Fascia Board Maintenance: As a builder, consider how often homeowners maintain the areas of their home they don’t have to get on a ladder to reach. Once you add the ladder into the equation, the maintenance really goes downhill. Having a preservative treated, built to last fascia board is the first line of protection between rafter tails and an overflowing gutter. Rotten rafters are extremely expensive and time-consuming to replace-often requiring a new roof as well. Why not give your future homeowners a little added protection with preservative treated fascia, and not have to worry so much about their lack of maintenance?
Conclusion
When choosing from different types of fascia boards, it’s important to consider your desired end result. Choose a product that’s naturally beautiful and made to last, especially if you live in a climate with excessive moisture.
