Fascias, Soffits & Guttering
Fascias & Soffits
When erecting new fascias, soffits and bargeboards, one option is to fit UPVC. Usually available in white, UPVC fascia and soffit material will save maintenance and looks great - there will be no need for repainting every other year, just wiping down with a soapy, damp cloth should bring it back to life.
When replacing a wooden fascia, soffit or bargeboard, it is recommended that the old fascia, soffit or bargeboards are all removed. Some 'professionals' will clad/cover over existing wood but this risks trapping moisture, which could cause serious rot in the structure.
Recent building regulations require ventilation in the soffit for new buildings (equivalent to a one inch gap along the whole perimeter), although not absolutely necessary, when fitting replacement soffit, it is worth considering fitting ventilated soffit to improve ventilation of the roof void.
Guttering
The main purpose of guttering is to efficiently channel rain water from the roof to a downpipe, which in turn carries the water down to ground level and into a drainage system.
There are numerous types of guttering from cast iron & UPVC to galvanised steel & enamelled gutters.
Most period houses would have originally had cast iron gutters & downpipes. They are very hard-wearing and can be painted regularly. Cast iron guttering is heavy and the fixings/brackets should be maintained & checked at regular intervals.
UPVC is now most commonly used. The sections & fixings are lighter, easy to fix, easy to maintain and don’t require painting!
Guttering is available in many different shapes, sizes & colours, mainly used are half-round & square. They can accumulate debris (leaves/vegetation etc); this can block the gutters and cause overflows. Regular annual inspections are recommended. Leave/snow guards are also a good solution for prevention of blockages.
Sagging gutters are also a common problem. Loose fittings/brackets could be the source of this problem. Tightening or replacing of fixings/brackets would be required.
Please contact Tecta Roofing with any queries you may have.
Frequently asked questions:
I have mould growing at top of the internal wall of my bedroom – what could be causing this?
Answer: Defective rainwater guttering and pipe work can be the source of many sorts of damp problems in the structure of a building. The guttering and associated pipe work are designed to carry rainwater away from a building, if they are not properly maintained, the water can run down the outside wall, eventually causing damage within the structure, ruining the decoration and/or causing mould growth. It is important to keep the guttering and pipe work in good repair.
How often should I have my gutters cleared of Debris?
Answer: Once in the summer and twice in the autumn is ideal.