How Much Does Soffit Replacement Cost? (2024)
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Soffit replacement costs typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, but most homeowners will pay around $3,250 on average. You might not think about your roof’s soffits very often, but they serve an important purpose. Soffit boards cover the underside of your roof’s overhanging areas, protecting it from moisture and animal activity. Soffits need to be replaced when they’re damaged, or you can install new ones to update your home’s exterior.
In this guide, we’ll go over what goes into sofft replacement and the various associated costs.
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How Much Do Soffit Replacements Cost on Average?
See below to get and idea of how much soffit replacement costs.
Major Cost Factors of Soffit Replacement
Replacing soffits costs an average of $2,500 for a one-story house with 250 linear feet of soffits. Professional soffit replacement typically costs $6 to $20 per linear foot, depending on the following factors.
- Material: Aluminum, plastic, vinyl, and wood soffits all come at different price points.
- Labor: Professional installation adds to the project’s total cost.
Types of Materials
Soffits are traditionally made of wood or aluminum. However, inexpensive, durable materials such as composite, PVC plastic, and vinyl are becoming more popular. Each type of material has benefits and drawbacks. For example, wood is affordable and easy to work with but prone to rotting and warping. Aluminum is more expensive to install but easier to maintain than wood. Vinyl is long-lasting but prone to sun damage.
Pre-cut soffit boards are typically sold in widths of 12 or 16 inches and section lengths of 8 to 12 feet. Material prices may be listed by square foot, linear foot, or section.
Material | Cost per Linear Foot | Cost per 12-Foot Section |
---|---|---|
Wood | $1–$3 | $12–$36 |
Fiber cement | $1–$5 | $12–$60 |
Composite | $1–$8 | $12–$96 |
Plastic/PVC/UPVC | $3–$7 | $36–$84 |
Vinyl | $5–$9 | $60–$108 |
Aluminum | $8–$20 | $96–$240 |
Labor Cost
Professional soffit installation costs $1.50 to $5 per linear foot on top of the above material costs. Many homeowners replace their home’s soffits at the same time as their fascia boards, or the material that runs along the outer edge of your roof’s eaves. Fascia replacement is more expensive because the installation process is a bit more difficult, running $6 to $20 per square foot.
Labor will cost $375 to $1,250 for the average one-story home with about 250 linear feet of soffits. Installing soffit on a home with two or more stories will cost more because of the extra time and risk involved.
Other Potential Cost Factors Affecting Soffit Replacement
Various factors beyond labor and home size can affect your soffit replacement cost. We’ll go over these aspects in detail below.
Accessibility
If your soffits are difficult to access—either because they’re more than one story off the ground or because landscaping features such as trees or bushes are near your home’s exterior—replacing them will likely cost more. Roofers may need extra time and equipment, which will increase the total price.
Assessing Damage
Damaged soffits or fascia usually indicate there are other problems with the roof as well. We recommend hiring a roof inspector for $125 to $150 to look for any other damage. Fascia and soffit repair might not be helpful if the rafter tails themselves are damaged or your roof structure is compromised.
Painting
Many synthetic and pre-cut soffit boards come already finished. However, if you install custom-cut or wood fascia or soffits, you’ll likely need them painted to match your house. Painting soffits typically costs $3.50 to $7.50 per square foot.
Removal
If you’re replacing fascia and soffits instead of installing new soffit, you’ll need to remove and dispose of the old materials. This typically costs around $300 for an average one-story home.
What Are Soffits and Fascia Boards?
Soffits are the boards that cover the area beneath your roof’s overhang. Fascia is the board that runs around the perimeter of your roof’s edge. The two connect at a right angle, so they’re often repaired and replaced at the same time. Together, they help seal your roofing system and keep moisture out to prevent mold and mildew inside your roof or attic. They also support your roof’s gutter system. Soffits provide some ventilation, while fascia adds to your curb appeal as a highly visible part of the roof.
Professional vs. DIY
An experienced do-it-yourselfer (DIYer) could probably replace soffits themselves, but most homeowners will probably want to hire professional roofers for the job.
Professional Soffit Replacement
Professional roofing contractors have the equipment and experience to replace soffits quickly and efficiently. Though you’ll pay more for labor, professionals are far more likely to get the job done right the first time. They can replace your soffits without damaging your gutters or shingles, plus make any necessary roof repairs.
DIY Soffit Replacement
It’s possible to replace your own soffits, but you should only attempt this if you have sufficient experience working on a ladder. You’ll also need to know how much ventilation your roof needs and how to include it. For a DIY job, you’ll only need to pay for materials and equipment you might need to rent, such as a reciprocating saw and finish nailer. You’ll save on labor costs, though labor might not be a large percentage of your final price for professional installation depending on your selected material.
How to Save on Soffit Replacement
Here’s how you can save money on soffit and fascia costs.
- Purchase pre-cut soffit boards in bulk instead of ordering custom materials.
- Look for soffit materials with a good warranty.
- Even if you’re doing the job yourself, get a professional inspection first. You’ll save money in the long run.
- Balance the money you’ll save on cheaper materials against the costs to maintain and replace them.
- Keep your gutters clean or install gutter guards to avoid putting unnecessary stress on fascia and soffits.
- Get estimates from at least three licensed roofing contractors before making your choice.
How to Hire a Professional
Here are some things to keep in mind as you search for a professional roofer.
- Most states require roofers to maintain a professional license, so make sure your contractor is licensed, insured, and bonded.
- Check the company’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating and customer reviews.
- Meet face-to-face to discuss your options in terms of materials and necessary repairs.
- Get estimates from multiple contractors before making your final decision.
- Before the job begins, get both the estimate and the contract in writing.
Our Recommendation
You can replace soffits on your own, but it’s usually best to hire a professional roofer. You’ll pay more in total, but you’ll save yourself the hassle and ensure the job is completed properly. Either way, make sure you choose a material that fits your home’s decor and budget, and keep up with maintenance of your new soffits so they’ll last as long as possible.
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Soffit Replacement Cost FAQ
Is a soffit part of the gutters?
Soffits aren’t part of the gutters, but they do close the gap between the bottom of the gutters and the roof. When most homeowners install new gutters, they replace the soffits at the same time.
What are some of the advantages of soffits?
Soffits seal the edges of your roof and keep pests and moisture out. They also provide ventilation and airflow to the interior of your home’s roofing system.
How often should soffits be replaced?
Soffits don’t have a set life span, but you should replace them when they appear damaged, cracked, or moldy. If you suspect pests are getting into your roof or you’re replacing your gutters, it’s a good idea to consider replacing your soffits.
Should I replace my own soffit?
You can replace your own soffit boards, but make sure you’re comfortable working on a ladder and know how to seal everything properly. If installed improperly, soffits might not provide your roof enough protection or ventilation.
How long does it take to replace soffits?
Soffits can typically be replaced in 11 to 13 hours. Two or more roofers can usually accomplish this in one day, but if you’re doing it on your own, you’ll probably need to spread it over a weekend.
What is the purpose of soffits?
Soffits protect your roof’s rafters from the elements, including water, wind, and animals. They also provide ventilation, allowing any moisture in the attic or interior of the roof to naturally evaporate with proper airflow. Finally, soffits serve an aesthetic purpose, covering up the roof’s rafter tails and interior elements.