Eaves & Soffits

Roof eaves project beyond the side of a home or building and consist of soffits and fascia. In Australia, roof eaves are usually made from wood (like cedar), aluminium and PVC.   For PVC systems, a pvc eave and soffit joiner can provide a clean transition between components at the roof edge. The projection of eaves on a house also helps shade the wall and openings below.

Roof soffits help protect the underside of the eaves and allow for proper ventilation. Roof soffits are usually made from vinyl, wood and aluminium. Timber lining boards and other soffit linings can be specified to suit the roof edge, with ventilation and access considered during detailing. House eaves need a soffit lining that suits the roof edge and its ventilation requirements.

Wood is one of the most popular materials used to make eaves and soffits in Australia. Common timber choices for eaves and soffits include cedar, pine and spruce.

In any construction process in Australia, the importance of high-quality eaves and soffits shouldn’t be underestimated. High-quality eaves and soffits not only increase the external aesthetic value of a building with a smooth and elegant appearance, but they also work effectively at preventing moisture from entering inside, especially from rainwater. Low-quality eaves and soffits are less efficient at retaining these protective values, increasing the possibility of mould growth. High-quality eaves and soffits are also made from premium grade wood or materials, meaning less maintenance will be required, plus there is a decreased chance of shape warping or shrinking in extreme heat.

Eaves and soffits can greatly affect the look and colour palette of your home. Some homeowners in Australia love the look of contrasting eaves and soffits since they peek out at the bottom of the roof and offer a pop of colour. Different materials of eaves and soffits can affect the properties. While wood is a classic and striking option for eaves and soffits, aluminium and vinyl are both highly water and rot-resistant-which is a great option if you live in a high humidity area. Also, getting the right soffit size is crucial if you want optimal function, as gaps in between soffits can cause problems with ventilation. At an upper-level outdoor area, a soffit balcony detail needs to account for drainage, lining direction and the junction with the building envelope.

To enhance a building's aesthetic appeal, with soffits and eaves, different facade types and materials can be used. Exterior decorative mouldings add intricate charm to the façade, facade screens offer privacy and sun control, glazed facade screens maximise natural light and energy efficiency, green facades bring sustainable beauty, and the timeless union of masonry and stone, combined with the versatility of render plaster systems, provides a rich architectural palette for creating diverse and striking facades.