How To Replace Fascia Board Behind Gutters (Do This!)
Fascia boards are vertical behind the gutter. It is the board that the gutter is anchored to in between the gutter and the roof. Like all boards over time, the fascia boards may show rotting signs and need to be replaced.
It is a positive thing the boards are easily replaceable and do not take too much time. If you begin in the morning, you can find yourself sitting in the outdoors knowing you have accomplished something good. So, how easy is it to replace?
To replace the fascia boards behind your gutter, begin by removing the gutters, then the boards. Change out the fascia boards, seal them, paint them, and put the gutter system back in place. If you are a DIY person, you can do this yourself or opt to hire a professional.
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Signs the Fascia Boards Need Replacement
Knowing about the parts of the gutter system and boards that support the system is critical. Replace the boards yourself is a simple process that we can walk you through. If you are unsure about the project, there is no shame in contacting a professional to be safe.
Gutters are usually nailed to the fascia, which is the vertical board serving as an anchor. The barge board runs at a 45-degree angle and supports the gutter and the fascia board. The soffit is for looks and added support, closing up the gap as a panel board.
When rotting occurs, the first board to go is the fascia. Since it is between the gutter and the roof, it is not easy to spot. These are some signs to look for when it is time to replace:
- If you notice there is flaking or cracked paint, it not only looks terrible, but it leads to further damage.
- Pests or infestations are a sure sign you have a significant problem on your hands. It is a problem that will continue to worsen and spread if not repaired quickly. Pests love to make their nest in rotten wood.
- Fascia and soffit boards bring ventilation to the attic. If the attic has no airflow, moisture will set in. That will also bring additional problems if not repaired.
- If you notice sitting water in a specific spot of the roof, it is another sign the boards are rotting.
- The gutter may lean or be offset in certain areas. Rotting fascia boards cause this problem, and over time the gutters may collapse.
Steps to Replace the Fascia Board Behind the Gutter
Now that you have spotted the need for replacement, your decision relies on a professional or do it yourself. These are the steps in which you can rest easy in knowing the job is done correctly. If you decide to do this project, you will be surprised at how simple it is.
Step 1: Safety First
Keep safety in mind at all times and evaluate the situation before starting anything. Look for signs of a wasp nest, spiders, collapsing boards, or any other hazards. Always put on your safety equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, hard hats, and other safety items.
Step 2: Remove Existing Gutters
Remove the gutter system by removing the nails with the hammer’s claw or a crowbar. Take the gutters down and put them in a safe place.
Step 3: Locate Water Source
If the wood is rotting, the only way to completely fix the problem is to find the water source. Once it is spotted, fix the problem, or it will continue to rot the board.
Step 4: Remove Rotted Sections
Remove the rotted board by hammering away from the backside underneath. It would be best if you had a utility knife to cut the seals and a scraper to remove the old paint and seal. Be sure not to pry the board away all at once, or else it will damage the surrounding trim.
It should be a gentle process. You do not want to create more work for yourself by destroying the roof. Some boards may be difficult to remove, so use the hammer to split the board a section at a time.
Another tip would be taking a reciprocating saw and cut the boards three feet apart. It will make it easier to come off in sections.
Step 5: Examine Subboard
Once the fascia board is removed, examine the underneath to ensure the subboard is not damaged. If that is rotted, you will need to replace it before putting the new board in place. Remember how everything is placed because it has to be framed the same way, level, and flush.
Step 6: Remove All Remaining Materials
Continue to remove all remaining seals, nails, and fasteners to leave a smooth surface.
Step 7: Prep New Board
Prep, your new board for cutting with accurate measurements. Tip: For longer-lasting material, use PVC materials. These will not rot and are the best options.
Step 8: Install New Board
Put the new treated board in place. A nail needs to go vertically at the high part and the low part of the wood. It will help keep water from getting in between the wood.
Step 9: Caulk and Seal
Use caulking to seal everything. It should be the siliconized latex caulk made for exterior purposes.
Step 10: Paint
Paint the fascia board the proper color. Use 1-2 coats of exterior primer, then use two coats of exterior paint. Put the gutter system back in place.
After this, your work is completed, and you can enjoy and be proud of the do-it-yourself project.
Changing the Scenery of Your Home
Changing the fascia boards is a perfect time if you wish to change the color, gutters, or replacing anything. There is no sense in double working or having to come back if the job is done correctly. The best time is while everything is down and being replaced.
It will cost less by doing it one time only. You will have less stress of having to do the same project over again. Finally, you can give your home a makeover and a new look with all new products.
Maintaining the Fascia Boards
When it comes to your home, maintenance is the critical factor in saving money and doing unwanted repairs. One of the biggest problems that cause rotting the fascia boards is not cleaning the gutters. Birds make nests, leaves fall in and stop up the drainage, and dust and dirt build-up over time.
When the gutters are clogged, water sits in place and overflows, draining onto the boards. Over time, the damp leaves, mold, mildew, and rotting takes effect with the sun beating down on the clogged area. Water should always flow freely out of the drain facing the ground, not the side of the roof.
When the home is built, everything is constructed for a specific purpose. The exit of the gutters should always come off the corner of the roof. In some cases, the modern-day gutters have them from the roof to the ground to direct the water flow.
As mentioned, if you want an upgrade to the gutter system, now is the time to do it. It is something to think about when it comes to color, size, and material. There are plenty of differences to shop from at affordable prices.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace the Fascia Boards?
The average price to replace the fascia boards cost from $6 to $20 per foot. If the job is done professionally, the average is $2,300. It depends on the damage and if the soffit needs replacement, from $600 to as high as $6,000 and cheaper if done yourself.
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Related Questions
How do I prevent the fascia board from rotting?
As mentioned in the previous paragraphs, maintenance is the answer. For the homes with no gutters, it may be time to invest in one if rotting occurs. Not every home has gutters.Checking the seals is a critical factor on the checklist. It should get checked every time you clean out the gutters. Reseal as needed.
Do I need to have a fascia board, or can I connect the gutter to the roof?
It depends on the overlap of the roof. The sole purpose is to protect the home from getting wet in places it should not. This is not a practice we recommend due to there are so many factors.It is safer to have the boards in place along with the gutters. A home is not cheap, and having the items in place may mean extra maintenance. It will run you less in the pocketbooks in the long haul.
How often do the fascia boards need to be replaced?
It should never have to be replaced if acceptable maintenance practices are set in place. However, it is a forgotten item in the gutter system that tends to be overlooked. If the leaks and sitting water situation is repaired, once in a lifetime is not uncommon.If the water problem continues to happen and is not repaired, it could be several times of replacing the boards. This can take up plenty of time and become costly, so it is best to fix everything at one time.
We are a team of passionate homeowners, home improvement pros, and DIY enthusiasts who enjoy sharing home improvement, housekeeping, decorating, and more with other homeowners! Whether you're looking for a step-by-step guide on fixing an appliance or the cost of installing a fence, we've here to help.
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