If you’ve ever looked up at the edge of your roof and wondered what the boards and panels underneath are actually called, you’re looking at your soffit and fascia.

Like any other part of your home’s exterior, soffit and fascia can become damaged over time. Knowing what they do and what to look for can help you catch problems before they turn into bigger repairs.

What Is Soffit?

Soffit is the material underneath the overhanging edge of your roof. If you stand outside and look up underneath the eaves, you’re looking at the soffit.

One of its most important jobs is attic ventilation. Vented soffit allows fresh air to enter the attic, helping regulate temperature and moisture. Proper attic ventilation can help reduce moisture buildup and protect other parts of your home from problems associated with excess heat and humidity.

Soffit also helps close off the underside of the roofline. Without it, the rafters and other areas beneath your roof would be more exposed to rain, wind, insects, birds, and other pests.

So while soffit might not be the first thing you notice about a house, it plays an important role in protecting it.