How to Install Maintenance-Free Aluminum Soffits (page 3 of 6)

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How to Install Maintenance-Free Aluminum Soffits: J-Channels

J-channel is a (surprise!) J-shaped length of aluminum that the soffit fits into against the house. Use it to anchor any edges of soffit not covered by aluminum fascia.

Drip Edge
Metal drip edge may already be on your home. It projects from under the shingles and directs water away from the surface of the fascia. You can reuse existing drip edge if it’s in good shape and you’re happy with the color.

To calculate the number of pieces of drip edge, divide the total linear footage of the outer perimeter of the roof edge by 10. Then add 5 percent.

Begin the job by pulling off the gutters, then ensure adequate attic ventilation
Removing gutters can be a real drag, but they may be reusable—if they survive the removal intact and if the color matches the new trim. Some aluminum styles are easily kinked, so have someone help you take them down. If you’re planning to reuse them, leave the drainpipes in place and simply disconnect them at the elbows. Steel yourself; you may end up having to replace the gutters along with the new trim if things don’t go well.

Most homes already have soffit vents. They conduct outside air into the attic to help prevent ice dams in the winter and keep attics cool in the summer. It’s best to remove existing vent covers for freer airflow before installing ventilated soffit panels. You should have about 1 sq. ft. of vents for every 300 sq. ft. of ceiling area, so add more holes if you’re lacking ventilation. The holes don’t need to be pretty; they’ll be covered with new material. For ease of cutting, position new holes in the spaces between the soffit framing (look for soffit nails to locate). For even ventilation, space holes fairly evenly across each soffit section.

The old wood fascia boards must be sound enough to hold the new fascia nails. Check the wood quality by jamming a screwdriver tip into the wood. Replace punky or rotten wood with straight pine boards the same width and thickness as the old.

Shingle moldings are narrow trim boards nailed to the top of the fascia if gutters aren’t used. They, like drip edge, direct water runoff away from the face to forestall weather damage. Pry them off with a flat bar and pull any leftover nails to prepare for the aluminum.

Tricks Of The Trade For A Quality Job
The devil is in the details. The difference between poor and quality workmanship is obvious when you examine crisp corners, clean miters and flat surfaces. Here’s the important stuff: