Installing aluminum soffit panels is a task that contractors (and occasionally very handy homeowners) tackle on a normal basis. With some advanced planning and the correct execution, the results are more than likely to turn out fantastic. Thanks in part because quality aluminum soffit is easy to work with and yields an attractive appearance that can boost the curb appeal of any home.
If this is your first time installing aluminum soffit, we’ve got you covered. Take a look at this aluminum soffit installation guide that provides step-by-step instructions for installing soffit like a pro.
Before you can begin installing aluminum soffit on your home, it’s important to gather the proper materials.
You will need the following materials to get started on your project:
You can also swap the hammer and nails for a staple gun, which can speed up the installation process. Before purchasing aluminum soffit, you should understand there are four different types of soffit profiles, and selecting the right combination can ensure your home is adequately equipped for proper ventilation.
Soffit profiles fall into the following four categories:
Installing all solid soffit panels will restrict the ventilation capabilities of your home. It’s popular to alternate solid and vented soffit panels to obtain maximum airflow, though some contractors also only run center vented soffit. Another alternative is to rely on hidden vent soffit panels, which provide generous airflow behind a relatively smooth panel surface. All strategies are acceptable, and it often comes down to personal preference, but be sure to check local building codes to ensure proper ventilation calculations.
Once you have all your materials gathered, it’s time to install your new aluminum soffit panels! To properly execute the installation process, follow the aluminum soffit installation instructions provided below.
1. Measure the total length of the walls you’re planning to attach the soffit to. You need to know how much material is needed to complete the installation process before ordering material.
2. Choose the right soffit starter. Soffit starters are also referred to as wall receivers. There are four popular types of soffit starters available; J-channel, F-channel, reversible F-Channel and Cove Molding. Different starters are typically used for specific scenarios:
3. For remodeling an existing structure, remove old trim and install a nailing base. If you are adding a new construction to your home, snap a chalk line to the side of the house, level with the fascia board. Position the soffit starter on the underside of soffit framing, and secure using staples or nails. The staples or nails should be spaced at 16-inch intervals to avoid gapping when securing the soffit panels themselves.
4. Measure the width of the eave where the soffit is needed. Be sure to measure the full distance between the wall to the front of the fascia board to determine the entire width of the soffit panel needed.
5. Measure, mark and cut soffit panels to ⅛-inch shorter than the determined width. This slightly shorter cut will allow for any discrepancies present in the fascia-to-wall distance. When cutting the soffit panels, it’s recommended to use a power saw with a non-ferrous blade to ensure smooth cuts.
6. Slip the panels into the soffit starter and secure to the bottom of the fascia board using 1-inch aluminum trim nails or staples. You also need to “lock” the two panels together. Secure panels at the grooves so that they maintain a smooth appearance that is flush with the fascia board. Continue down the length of the eave.
1. Measure and cut the length of the miter divider. Using metal snips, you’ll need to make a point at one end and a wide v-cut at the other. Be aware that the “v” needs to fit into the corner of the house.
2. Slip the v-cut end of the miter divider into the soffit starter next to the wall. Fasten the pointed end at the corner of the fascia board using staples or 1” aluminum trim nails.
3. Measure and cut soffit panels at a 45° angle to match the length needed for the corner pieces.
4. Install triangular soffit panels. Be sure that the panel grooves line up with each other along the miter divider for a clean and measured appearance.
That’s it! Now that you’ve successfully installed the aluminum soffit, you can move onto the fascia.
Though you may be tempted to start soffit installation at the corner and work your way from left to right, this isn’t the best approach. Instead, always start the soffit installation in the middle of the length of the overhang. Then, work your way outwards toward each end. This installation strategy helps to create a clean, smooth appearance along the soffit.
When installing the fascia above the soffit, the starting point strategy is a little different. Begin fascia installation at the farthest corner from the front yard, or the farthest corner of the house from the main entrance.
Fascia seams tend to be most apparent at their starting point rather than their ending point, so using this technique ensures that the seams are less noticeable along areas of the house that get the most visual attention, like the entryway and front of the house.
Remember, a clean installation of aluminum soffit is key to enjoying proper protection and obtaining a top-notch appearance. Keep this in mind as you install your new aluminum soffit!
Contact the soffit specialists at Rollex today for more information on the installation process.