How Much Does It Cost To Install Soffit And Fascia?

Last Updated on July 18, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Properly installed soffit and fascia help protect the eaves of your home from damage while also enhancing curb appeal. Understanding the costs involved in soffit and fascia installation or replacement allows homeowners to budget and plan this vital exterior home improvement project. This article explores the key factors impacting soffit and fascia costs, typical pricing ranges, DIY vs professional installation considerations, and tips for keeping your project affordable.

The roofline overhangs on your home are vulnerable to moisture, pests, and decay without secure soffit and fascia in place. Keeping these exterior finishes in good condition ensures your roof’s supporting structures remain intact for years to come. Knowing what to expect cost-wise helps you protect this critical part of your home.

How Much Does It Cost To Install Soffit And Fascia?

Installing or replacing your home’s soffit and fascia can cost anywhere from $1000 to $15,000+ depending on the size of your home, materials selected, and labor expenses.

Here are the typical material and labor price ranges to expect for replacement projects:

Soffit Material Costs Per 8′ x 4′ Panel

• Vinyl – $50 – $100 per panel
• Aluminum – $75 – $150 per panel
• Wood – $100 – $250 per panel
• Composite – $125 – $300 per panel
• Copper – $250 – $500+ per panel

Fascia Material Costs Per 8′ Length

• Vinyl – $15 – $40 per length
• Aluminum – $20 – $60 per length
• Wood – $30 – $150 per length
• Composite – $40 – $200 per length
• Copper – $60 – $250+ per length

Professional Installation Labor

• Soffit or Fascia Install/Replacement – $400-$800 for typical single-story home
• Full Soffit and Fascia Replacement – $2000-$6000+ for typical single-story house
• Multi-Story or Larger Homes – $6000-$15,000+

DIY Installation Material and Equipment Costs

• Materials – $750-$2000
• Tools – $500-$1000 (drills, nail guns, saws, ladders, scaffolding)
• Permits – $0-$250

HomeGuide reports that the average cost to install or replace fascia and soffit boards ranges from $9 to $34 per square foot, or $900 to $6,800 for a typical 100-200 linear foot project.

They break down the costs further, stating that fascia board replacement alone typically costs $5 to $12 per linear foot, while soffit installation ranges from $4 to $22 per linear foot.

Checkatrade, a UK-based home services review site, provides a comparison of soffit and fascia replacement costs in the US versus the UK. They estimate that in the US, the total price to replace a fascia board, including waste removal and labor, is likely to be around $3,500 on average.

Forbes Home‘s research indicates that the average cost to install or replace soffits and fascia in the US is around $2,700, but notes that this can vary based on factors like the materials used and the size of the roof.

Factors That Influence Installation Costs

Several important considerations affect the total project price:

Materials Selected – Vinyl, Aluminum, Wood or Composite

• Vinyl – The most affordable but least durable option at $3-$6 per sq. ft. installed.
• Aluminum – Lightweight yet dent-prone choice at $5-$10 per sq. ft. installed.
• Wood – Requires frequent staining and sealing at $8-$15 per sq. ft. installed.
• Composite – Blend of wood and plastic lasts longer than real wood if properly sealed – $10-$18 per sq. ft. installed.
• Copper or Steel – Very durable but expensive at $15-$25+ per sq. ft. installed.

Size of House and Required Coverage Area

Larger homes with greater dimensions and surface area to cover will require more materials, likely multiple crews, and extended labor hours to complete, increasing the project scale.

Layout Complexity

Intricate architectural elements like dormers, gables, bump-outs and multi-level rooflines require working around more complex angles and lines, adding to material quantities and labor time.

Geographic Location and Regional Labor Rates

Labor costs range from $30-$65 per hour for installers based on the average wages and overall demand for contractors in your area. Higher cost of living areas has higher rates.

Permit Requirements

Some jurisdictions require home improvement permits for soffit and fascia replacement adding $75-$250+ in permit fees, planning and lost time if needed. Not all areas have this regulation. Some waive fees for repair after storm damage.

Addition of Soffit Vents, Trim or Accessories

Adding soffit ventilation, ornate fascia trim accents or crown molding tacks on an additional $250-$500+ in extra materials and labor costs typically.

Typical Per Linear Foot Installation Costs

Here are rough per linear foot installed prices including materials and professional labor costs:

• Vinyl – $10 – $15 per linear foot
• Aluminum – $12 – $20 per linear foot
• Wood – $20 – $35 per linear foot
• Composite – $25 – $40 per linear foot
• Copper – $35 – $60 per linear foot

Itemized Cost Considerations

The total expense of your project is determined by multiple factors:

Materials

• Type chosen – vinyl or aluminum typically cheapest, wood and copper most expensive
• Quantity needed to cover home’s dimensions

Labor

• Size of house – more hours required for larger homes
• Layout complexity – intricate architectural details add time
• Location – rates vary based on regional contractor demand and average wages

Additional Elements

• Soffit vents add ventilation
• Trim provides aesthetic accents
• Permits may be required based on area

Get multiple detailed bids before deciding on a contractor. Ask about ways to potentially reduce costs if needed.

Longevity and Ongoing Maintenance

While vinyl and aluminum cost less upfront, wood generally offers a more attractive and classic appearance over the long term when properly maintained:

• Vinyl – Fades and becomes brittle over decades. Minimum maintenance.
• Aluminum – Prone to dents but lasts many years. Periodic caulking needed.
• Wood – Durability depends on wood species. Needs repainting/sealing every 5-10 years.
• Composite – Durable if sealed, minimal upkeep. Slightly higher initial cost.

No matter the material, proper installation and seasonal inspections are key to achieving maximum longevity. Don’t cut corners during installation.

The Soffit and Fascia Installation Process

Replacing your soffit and fascia involves meticulous preparation, precise installation, and careful finishing details:

Pre-Work

• Clear area below of obstructions
• Take exact measurements
• Inspect and repair any underlying damage to substrate
• Apply for permit if required

Removing Existing Soffit and Fascia

• Remove accessory elements like lights, vents or gutters
• Take out old nails from rafter tails
• Pry old panels off carefully to avoid damage
• Dispose of old materials properly

Installing New Boards and Panels

• Place aluminum fascia over rafter ends first for framework
• Cut soffit panels to size
• Nail or screw panels into place over fascia lip
• Attach trim pieces and vents as needed

Finishing Touches

• Seal any gaps with caulk
• Touch up paint if needed
• Reinstall gutters, lights, vents
• Clean up area thoroughly

Careful waterproofing provides protection from moisture issues long term.

Cost Comparison of Soffit and Fascia Materials

Here is a detailed cost comparison of common soffit and fascia materials:

Vinyl

Cost – $3-$6 per sq. ft. installed

Pros – Lightweight, affordable, easy installation, wide color selection

Cons – Can dent, fade over time, minimal insulation value

Maintenance – Occasional pressure washing

Aluminum

Cost – $5-$10 per sq. ft. installed

Pros – Very lightweight yet strong, available across colors

Cons – Prone to dents and scratches, noisy rain, minimal insulation

Maintenance – Repainting every 10-20 years

Wood

Cost – $8-$15 per sq. ft. installed

Pros – Unmatched classic appearance, easy to repair sections

Cons – Requires frequent staining/sealing, can warp or rot

Maintenance – Staining/sealing every 2-5 years

Composite

Cost – $10-$18 per sq. ft. installed

Pros – Blend of wood and plastic, durable, low maintenance

Cons – Higher upfront cost, limited color selection

Maintenance – Occasional sealing

Get samples to view material quality and colors before deciding.

Estimating Your Total Replacement or Installation Costs

Total project costs depend on your goals, home’s size and complexities:

Total Replacement Cost Estimates

• Smaller home – $2000-$4000 range
• Average 1500 sq. ft. home – $4000-$8000 range
• Larger or 2-story home – $8000-$15,000 range
• Architectural detailing – $1000-$3000 additional
• Extensive repairs needed – Add $2000-$5000

New Installation on Previously Open Eaves

• Smaller home – $1000-$3000 range
• Average 1500 sq. ft. home – $3000-$6000 range
• Larger or 2-story home – $5000-$10,000 range

Get at least 3 bids to compare options for your specific project.

Potential Additional Costs

• Soffit or fascia repairs – $200-$1000 depending on damage
• Adding soffit vents – $300-$500 improves ventilation
• Installing decorative trim – $500-$1500 for materials and labor
• Priming and paint – $400-$1000 if desired for added weatherproofing
• Permit fees – $0-$250 based on municipality requirements

Inspect and budget for any underlying structural damage in need of repair as well.

You might also like our articles about the cost of roof trusses, LeafFitter, or MasterShield Gutter Guard.

DIY Installation – Is it Worth It?

Trying to install soffit and fascia yourself can potentially save on labor costs, but also comes with challenges:

Considerable Time Commitment – Projects often take full weekends and longer without a professional team.

Learning Curve – Developing precision cutting and installation proficiency takes training and experience. Mistakes are made.

Special Equipment Needed – You’ll need ladders, scaffolding, nail guns, saws, and potentially a dumpster rental.

Second-story Work – Heights involved create safety risks. Professionals have specialized equipment.

Limited Material Discounts – Contractors get wholesale prices from suppliers that homeowners can’t access.

If you’re up for the commitment, have construction experience, and are willing to pay tuition in mistakes, DIY can save money. For most homeowners, hiring a pro is worth the cost.

Strategies for Keeping Costs Down

Here are some tips for keeping your soffit and fascia project as affordable as possible:

• Select mid-range vinyl or aluminum materials instead of premium grades
• Look for manufacturer discounts and volume pricing on materials
• Install off-season when contractor demand is lower
• Only replace visibly damaged sections instead of the entire perimeter
• Consider combining the project with roofing or siding replacement to share equipment fees
• Provide your own dumpster and assist with material delivery to save fees
• Apply for local permit fee waivers if available in your area

Final Words

While certainly not an inexpensive endeavor, proper installation by experienced professionals ensures the longevity of these critical protective structural elements. With periodic inspections and proactive maintenance, quality materials should easily last 20-30 years or more depending on climate conditions.

Carefully weighing the long and short term costs against benefits will empower you to make the optimal investment protecting your home for the decades ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my soffit and fascia?

With proper installation and maintenance, quality soffit and fascia materials should last 20-30 years. Inspect annually for any cracks, leaks, or damage. Replace individual sections as needed. Budget for full replacement around the 25–30-year mark or if extensive repairs are required. Proper painting or sealing preserves wood soffit and fascia longer.

How long does it take to install soffit and fascia?

The timeframe depends on the size of your home, but allow several days to a week for a typical complete soffit and fascia removal and replacement. Preparing the area and removing the old materials can take 2-3 days. Installing new boards and accessories takes another 2-3 days. Larger homes or intricate details add time. Most contractors schedule projects in phases.

Do you need both soffit and fascia?

Yes, both soffit and fascia work together to fully protect, enclose, and accent your roof overhangs. The soffit covers the horizontal underside surface providing ventilation. Fascia caps the outer sloped edge and channels rainwater from the roof into gutters. Having both components properly installed is important for functionality, weather-resistance, and aesthetics.

Can you install a soffit before fascia?

It is generally better to install fascia first to provide the outer framework, followed by the soffit panels secured to the inner rafters and fascia surface. However, some vinyl or aluminum soffit and fascia components utilize an integrated “one-piece” system that allows simultaneous installation. The best sequence depends on the type of materials used. Ask your installer what works best for your project.