Eaves are the roof overhang beyond the walls and serve an important protective role. They keep the elements away from walls and foundations, thus maintaining the overall structural integrity of the house. But we often don’t think about them until it is too late.
Ignoring your eavestroughs can result in much more severe and costly damage to other parts of your property. Maintenance of your eaves is essential to extend the life of your roof and prevent water damage to your home. If you have damaged or missing shingles, dented gutters, or any other type of damage to your eave, water and other debris can easily get through cracks and gaps, causing serious damage to your home’s structure.
What Makes Up Your Eaves?
As explained above, the eave is the overhang of your home’s roof. But it’s made up of different components:
Soffit – This is the horizontal section that connects the far edge of your roof to the exterior wall of your house. Soffits are generally made of fibre cement because it’s light, water and rodent proof. Other materials like wood are susceptible to rot due to the high moisture conditions.
Fascia board – Fascia protects the soffit and wall beneath. It is the vertical board of wood just below the roof edge and also plays an aesthetic role as it softens the roof’s edge.
Signs of Eave Damage
One of the first places that homeowners should check after a severe storm is their eaves. Strong winds and flying debris can easily cause damage. Some signs that you should contact a certified roofing contractor to repair or replace your eaves:
- Areas of rust or holes
- Eavestrough that has come loose from the fascia
- Cracked or broken gutters
- Poor drainage
- There are water stains on the walls and ceilings
- Evidence of pests
Ignoring eave damage can lead to serious problems, such as leaks and structural damage. Prompt attention can repair most eave damage relatively quickly.
If you require eaves repair or replacement in Perth, Hammer and Brush is here to help. We are a family-run business owned and operated locally. Contact us today at 0419 192 561 for a free consultation!