No roofing system is complete without fascia boards. Whether you go for timber or steel, high-quality fascia boards will protect your roof and add some style to your roofline.
We take you through the ins and outs of fascia boards in this guide, including what they are, the benefits they offer, types of fascia boards out there, and lots more. You'll find all the essential information you need about fascia boards right here!
What Are Fascia Boards?
Fascia boards are long and straight boards that are added all along the lower edge of the roof. They get installed where the roof connects to the outer walls of a building.
In terms of what they actually do, fascia boards have a few purposes that support form and function. They're a protective barrier that blocks out water and debris from getting into the home's exterior structure. They also boost the aesthetics of a roof, enhancing rooflines to make them look much neater.
Why Your Roof Needs Fascia Boards
Other than their good looks, fascia boards also offer a bunch of useful benefits that keep roof systems in tip-top shape.
Specially designed to handle tough Aussie weather, high-quality fascia boards are the perfect shield that delivers durability and long-lasting protection for your roofline. Think of facia boards as an anchor that keeps the bottom row of your roof tiles or sheeting securely in place, preventing wind damage.
They also prevent water damage by blocking rainwater out from interior walls and roof structure, these handy boards shield your roof from water damage, even during torrential rains. Because they stop water from getting into your roof system and walls, you'll be less likely to find any mould or mildew growing, which in turn ensures the structure of your roof stays strong and intact.
And water isn't the only thing they keep out!
They act as a barrier that stops debris from building up. When the winds are high, things like leaves, twigs, moss, and other debris can get lodged into crevices on your roof, leading to clogged gutters and overflow. But don't worry because these boards act as a barrier that prevents debris from getting stuck.
Besides the practical benefits of these boards, they also look great and make rooflines that extra bit more aesthetically pleasing.
Fascia Board Options
Fascia boards come in all kinds of materials, lengths, and styles. You can get them in timber, uPVC, metal, and more. They come in various colours, like classic cream, ensuring they match your roof.
There's also lots of different lengths to pick, each suitable for a range of roof projects. And when it comes to style, you can get boards specifically designed for a bunch of exterior aesthetics, like Queensland heritage style homes.
Picking the Right Fascia Boards for Your Roofing System
When you're choosing fascia boards for your roof, there are some important things to think about. Here's your complete checklist to help you pick out the perfect match for your roofing project:
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Choose the Right Material: If you've got a metal roof setup, you'll need aluminium or steel fascia boards. And for tiled roofs, timber or slate will do the trick.
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Match Your Roof's Style: Fascia boards shouldn't just do a good job; they should also look good on your roof. Make sure you pick a style that matches your home's aesthetic for a cohesive finish.
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Think About Colour Coordination: The last thing you want is a mix-match of colours on your roof. Go for a colour that matches your home's exterior palette.
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Check for Compliance with Australian Standards: As with any construction project, you've always got to double-check you're adhering to local government rules and regulations.
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Always Double Check Lengths and Thickness: You've got to make sure your chosen boards properly fit your roof. Otherwise, you risk gaps and bad alignment, which could be an open door for water and debris to sneak in.
Expert Tips for Keeping Your Fascia Boards in Top Condition
While your facia boards are there to keep your roof in good form, they also need some TLC to ensure they remain strong and durable and effectively safeguard your home's exterior.
Adding a protective topcoat, like a waterproofing shield, will make fascia boards twice as tough and much more long-lasting. Making sure joints are neatly and tightly sealed up is an absolute must, too. This will stop moisture from creeping beneath, which would otherwise wreak havoc on your roof system.
If you spot any corners coming loose or joints lifting, be sure to quickly fix them with some good quality flashing. Doing an occasional check will also help you stay one step ahead of any gaps that open up, which will help prevent any serious moisture-related mishaps down the line.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a capping board and a fascia board?
A fascia board is fixed onto roof trusses and designed to support the lower edge of the roof whereas a capping board, also known as a cover board, gets installed over a fascia board. It's essentially a quick fix that improves the aesthetic appeal of a fascia board, while adding an extra layer of protection.
Can I replace a fascia board myself?
You absolutely can. It's actually a pretty doable DIY task that most homeowners can take on themselves. But, for more large-scale and complex tasks, it's best to call in a roofing pro.
If you do tackle replacing your fascia boards yourself, make sure you've got the right safety equipment, tools for the job, and meet Australian standards.
Why is my fascia board rotting?
If you've got roof leaks and clogged-up gutters, moisture will get trapped and build up around your fascia boards. This creates a perfect environment for mould and mildew to grow, causing decay.
Keeping your gutters clear, making sure you fix leaks quickly, and protecting your facia boards with weatherproof coatings will prevent rotting altogether.