There’s no definite timetable for when to replace a soffit, but we’ve outlined some signs to look out for. Replacing a soffit can range from $6–$30 per linear foot but costs an average of $17 per linear foot.* That totals $4,250 for a typical one-story home requiring a job of 250 linear feet.
You may not notice them daily, but soffits are a common part found on many homes. They’re the material that covers the underside of your roof’s overhang, sometimes called the eaves or rafters. Soffit boards can keep pests away and help to remove excess heat and moisture from your attic.
This guide breaks down what goes into the cost of soffit replacement and provides saving tips.
Key Takeaways
- Soffit replacement costs an average of $4,250 for a one-story house that requires 250 linear feet.
- Other factors that can affect the cost of soffit replacement include the removal of old soffits, labor, roof spot repair, and maintenance costs.
*Cost figure averaged from multiple sources.
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What Are Signs That You Need To Replace Your Soffit?
Problems with your soffit could lead to certain issues with your home’s roof or attic. Here are some signs that it’s time to replace your soffit:
- Pests: The soffit is one of the most important parts of a roof that is designed to keep rodents, large insects, and other pests out. It’s time to replace it if you find evidence of pests, such as bite marks or nests.
- Water buildup: A damaged roof can create cracks and water buildup in your soffit. When the soffit starts to warp and crack, consider replacing it along with your house’s roof.
- Wobbly gutters: Your gutters should run straight along your roofline. Bending or twisting could be a sign of soffit or fascia damage.
What Is The Average Cost of Soffit Replacement?
The average cost of soffit replacement is $17 per linear sq ft. Installation costs can vary widely based on the soffit type you choose. We’ll expand on the different types below.
Cost by Soffit Type
In the table below, we’ve broken down average soffit material prices per linear foot. Some materials, such as wood, vinyl, and aluminum, require painting to prevent elemental damage or match your home. Paint adds $150–$300 to material costs on average, with the painting process costing more if necessary.
| Soffit Type | Average Cost per Linear Foot | Average Cost for One-story Home |
|---|---|---|
|
Aluminum |
$8–$20 |
$2,000–$5,000 |
|
Composite |
$1–$8 |
$250–$2,000 |
|
Plastic/PVC |
$3–$7 |
$750–$1,750 |
|
Vinyl |
$5–$9 |
$1,250–$2,250 |
|
Wood |
$1–$3 |
$250–$750 |
- Aluminum Soffits: Aluminum is typically the most expensive soffit material at an average of $8–$20 per linear foot. Metal roofs and other metal materials typically have a higher price point. It’s easy to install because it’s cut and bent easily. It’s also exceptionally durable and water-resistant. However, it can become chalky and fade in color over time. You’ll need to repaint it to maintain its appearance.
- Composite Soffits: Composite soffits are made from a combination of wood and plastic materials. They’re rot-resistant and inexpensive, costing $1–$8 per linear foot. However, they’re difficult to install, increasing labor costs.
- Plastic/PVC Soffits: Soffits made of plastic, unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (UPVC), or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cost an average of $3–$7 per linear foot. They don’t require painting, reducing your overall cost. Plastic is also one of the most durable materials to use for soffit replacements. You can customize these soffits with specialized paint.
- Vinyl Soffits: Vinyl is low-maintenance and rot- and mold-resistant. It’s more durable than wood but more expensive at an average of $5–$9 per linear foot. Vinyl can also crack in extremely hot or cold temperatures. You can paint vinyl soffits to match your home.
- Wood Soffits: Wood is one of the cheapest soffit materials, costing $1–$3 per linear foot. It’s also one of the easiest to work with and install. However, it’s the most susceptible to the elements. Wood can chip, peel, and splinter over time and needs replacement more frequently. It’s recommended that you paint wood soffits for added protection against water damage and other external factors.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Soffit Replacement?
The cost of a new soffit board is just one factor that affects the total replacement cost. Here are some other aspects to consider.
Additional Roofing Repair Costs
Replacing the soffit may not be the only work your roof requires. If you don’t address other roof issues, such as shingle replacement or structural repairs, you’ll likely see more damage soon. Include the cost of additional roof repair work when estimating your soffit replacement cost.
Labor Cost of Soffit Repair
Labor for replacing a soffit board costs around $20 per linear foot for an experienced professional. Some contractors charge an additional fee—usually between 7% and 15% of the total cost—for work that’s difficult to access.
Maintenance Costs
Consider the cost of maintaining your new soffit. Cheaper materials, such as wood or composite require more frequent cleaning and repair. More expensive materials cost more up-front, but you may spend less on them in the long run.
Cost of Removal of Old Soffit
Removing an old soffit that’s in good condition is a simple job. Removing a soffit with extensive rot is more labor-intensive and complex.
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Can You Replace Your Soffits Yourself?
Replacing soffit is difficult and dangerous for those without professional roofing experience. It’s also physically demanding.
Professional Soffit Replacement
Having a professional replace your soffit is the best roof insulation option. Labor costs $6–$20 per linear foot, plus additional fees if the soffit is hard to access or has other issues.
A professional will have all the necessary tools to complete the job. They should also fix their work if any issues arise from installation.
DIY Soffit Replacement
Do-it-yourself (DIY) soffit replacement is challenging and unsafe. Professionals strongly urge homeowners not to attempt this project themselves. If you have the tools and knowledge and are still considering DIY replacement, we’ve provided a general overview of the steps to replace vinyl soffit below.
Materials for Soffit Replacement
If you’ve decided to replace soffits yourself, you’ll want to be prepared. Most soffit boards are made of either wood, fiber-cement products, aluminum, or vinyl. Here are some materials you may need while installing them:
- Box nails
- Circular saw, tin snips, hand saw, or utility knife (to cut soffit)
- Clamps
- Flat pry bar
- Gloves
- Hammer
- Ladder
- Tape measure
Soffit Replacement Steps
For homeowners who are determined to try soffit replacement on their own, use the following steps as a basic guide. We strongly suggest turning to professionals for soffit replacement since the process involves performing complicated tasks while you’re dangerously far off the ground. Note that the process could vary somewhat if your soffit isn’t made of aluminum or vinyl.
- Disassemble: It’s difficult to replace the soffit without first removing the fascia boards, gutters, and downspouts. Remove each piece and number them so you remember how to reinstall them later.
- Remove nails: Remove the nails from the soffit and remove the old board.
- Cute new soffits: Cut your new soffit to match the lengths of the removed pieces. Soffit is sold in 12-foot pieces, so you’ll need to measure and cut to size. You can use a putty knife to cut your soffit along the length of the board. A hand saw or tin snips will work For smaller vertical cuts. A circular saw is also an option for cutting soffit boards.
- Secure new soffits: Secure your new soffit into the channel against your home. This could be an “F” channel or “J” channel, depending on your installation. Interlock the soffit into the channel and listen for a “click” to verify the board is locked in place. You can secure your soffit boards with box nails to ensure a snug fit.
- Reinstall fascia boards: Reinstall your fascia boards to the roof.
The installation process will vary based on the soffit material. You may also need to paint and treat the soffit boards before installation. It’s also possible you’ll encounter unexpected issues, which professionals are better equipped to handle.
How To Save on Soffit Replacement Cost
While some soffit replacement costs are out of your control, there are some things you can do to save money.
- Compare quotes: Get price estimates from multiple contractors if you’re looking to save as much money as possible on the cost of soffit replacement.
- Remove your own soffit: It’s best to have a professional take down and put up soffit, but those with extra skill and a willingness for challenges can attempt to remove it on their own. This can be dangerous, though, and we don’t think it’s worth the risk.
- Shop around for materials: Don’t assume that your local home improvement store or an online retailer has the best price. Compare costs from several retailers before purchasing if you plan to replace soffit on your own.
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Is Soffit Replacement Worth it?
Soffit replacement costs an average of $17 per linear foot, or $4,250 for a typical one-story home. However, these costs can vary depending on the material, project complexity, and other factors. Shop around for materials and labor to ensure you get the best price.
FAQs About Soffit Replacement Cost
How long does soffit replacement take?
It generally takes between one and two days to replace 300 linear feet of soffit on a one-story home. The amount of time that soffit replacement will take depends largely on the size of your house.
Why should you replace soffits?
Soffits and fascia protect your roof and other parts of your home from ice, moisture, pests, and other environmental hazards. One of the key roofing maintenance tips is replacing soffits and fascia to help prevent damage.
How often should you replace soffits?
There’s no set timetable for how long a roof can last, and that factor shouldn’t play a role in soffit replacement. Most soffit materials are guaranteed to last a certain amount of years, but weather and other factors can shorten or lengthen their lifetime.
How much does it cost to replace soffits?
It costs around $10 per linear foot, or $2,500 total, to replace a soffit on an average-sized one-story home. However, costs can vary greatly by material, project complexity, and other factors.