Soffits – cracks in sheet linings

Causes

Building movement or earthquake

Impact damage (soffit sheets are often quite thin)

Listed under: Exterior, earthquakes, walls, soffits

Cause

Building movement or earthquake

Repair

  • if the cracks are only hairline fractures, just keeping an eye on them to see if they get worse may be an acceptable initial response
  • filling small cracks and then repainting the soffit is an option for very minor damage
  • larger cracks or missing pieces of soffit sheet should be repaired. Soffits have a role in keeping birds, rodents and insects out of a roofspace. They also stop rain being blown into the roofspace and reduce the wind and air movement that could impact on the placement and effectiveness of roof insulation
  • depending on the level of damage it may be easier to replace sheets rather than just missing pieces
  • if the paint coating has been damaged, leave the soffit to dry thoroughly. Once dry, sand or gently scrape away any loose paint. Ensure the surface is clean and smooth and then recoat with 2 coats of good quality paint. Major paint manufacturers have specialised paints with stain blockers and mould inhibitors, for use where mould or stains have occurred. If water stains are present on materials and the material is painted with an ordinary water-based paint, the stain will usually bleed through the new coating
  • safety is a prime consideration when working at height. Find information here about using ladders and scaffolding safely. Always let someone know when you plan to work at height

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Cause

Impact damage (soffit sheets are often quite thin)

Repair

  • as in the first repair above

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