Photo Album: Soffit damage allows for wildlife entry into attic.
This homeowner in New Egypt, NJ had some damage to his soffit and fascia following a storm with some heavy winds. Soffits and fascias are important parts of a roof structure. The exterior soffit is located on the span beneath the rafter tails and the facia is the exposed horizontal band at the end of the rafters. The overhangs on a roof are one of the more common areas for wildlife to gain access to the attic, especially those animals that have no problems reaching high locations like squirrels, raccoons, and birds.
Damaged Soffetts Let in Birds
Soffits are usually vinyl or aluminum with vents to help expel hot air from the attic. Many animals will claw through these materials or rip open the vents. The fascia, where gutters are installed, can become damaged from water rot. Wildlife will often manage to access a home through these materials, especially when there is pre-existing damage, which is usually water-related. With this home, the storm damage provided an access point for birds to enter the attic.
Repaired Soffitt Keeps Birds Out in New Egypt.
Now the homeowner doesn't have to worry about birds sneaking in.