While it is the builder’s responsibility to assess and recommend the best materials to use in building a house, as a homeowner, it is still important that you are also aware of such things. Aside from it allowing you to decide what materials to use as you see fit, it also helps you to ensure that the materials used are of quality.

Take the house’s gutter system, as an example. 

A quality and properly designed gutter system provides efficient water management. Essentially, it protects houses from damages caused by rainwater by properly channeling the flow of water from the roof and through the downspouts. Installing the right type of materials to build a gutter system, moreover, is crucial.

The type of fascia board, for instance, must be durable enough to hold the gutter. Otherwise, it would eventually break.

That being said, a lot of builders recommend PVC fascia boards as the best and superior material to ensure the gutter system is sturdy enough to hold tons of water.

As to why it is ideal, let’s find out. 

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What Is a Fascia Board?

As already mentioned, a fascia board is a material used to support the gutter. But it is not only the gutter that it supports. Physically, a fascia board is a piece of board that is mounted between where the house’s outer wall and roof meets. It is also directly attached to the lower ends of the roof tiles’ bottom row.

Thus, in essence, it also supports the roof as well as prevents the rafters from rotting and deterioration.

Source: pixabay.com

A fascia board is made of a variety of materials too. There is a fascia board that is made of wood, fiber cement, aluminium, vinyl, and PVC. And each of them comes with distinct advantages and drawbacks. 

Is a PVC Fascia Board Better?

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) fascia board is one of the common forms of the said material. Essentially, it is made of plastic, the same materials used in making pipes and tubes. Although appearance-wise, it sort of resembles wood-based fascia boards. 

Having that said, is a PVC board better than its counterparts?

The PVC fascia board is the common material that builders recommend due to its reputation in terms of durability. It is superior in other several aspects too, including the cost, aesthetic, and convenience. However, it is also true that other materials such as aluminium, and vinyl can match it when it comes to its ability to last and withstand heavy pressure.

Hence, to elaborate things further, below is a brief explanation of the benefits of PVC fascia boards.

  • Low-cost and low maintenance. Among its many perks, its being cheap and low maintenance are perhaps the best thing about using PVC fascia boards.

    Fascia boards that are made of plastic are cheaper compared to other materials. Its price typically starts at $100 per square meter. Although this may vary depending on the brand, quality, as well as size.

    Professionally installed plastic fascia boards require less maintenance too. And it is because the material is inherently non-corrosive, which means it is very resistant against natural elements that cause corrosion and requires less to zero treatment.

    Aside from that, polyvinyl chloride has non-conductive elements and therefore can help insulate the house.
  • Superior durability. Another great thing about PVC fascia boards is their durability. Because it is made of plastic, it can easily carry heavy litres of flowing water. It is long-lasting too. And, in fact, manufactures.

    It is great for weatherproofing too since it is installed in the tiling of the roof system, which helps to cover cracks and gaps. In return, it can help keep your home safe against extreme weather conditions.
  • Decorative. When it comes to aesthetics, PVC fascia boards are great to use as finishing touches as well. It essentially helps to elevate the overall structure design of the gutter and even the roof.

    PVC fascia boards come in varying styles too, including wood grain finishes. It is sold in different colors as well. Or, if you prefer, you can also paint it with your chosen color to match its look with the other parts of the house.
  • Easy to install. Lastly, it is relatively easy to install PVC fascia too. It is particularly true if you have the right skill set to do the job, such as carpentry.

    However, if you are not a seasoned DIY enthusiast and simply do not know how to do such a job, it is best to consult and hire a professional fascia board installer instead to ensure that everything is correctly and firmly installed. 

How to Install PVC Fascia Board

Step 1: Find the length of your roof using a measuring tape. Before you buy a fascia board, the first thing to do is to measure the length of your roof with a measuring tool. As mentioned, fascia boards are attached to the roof and thus, the length of your roof will also follow the length of the fascia board.

 On the other hand, if you are to replace the board with new ones, then you can just simply measure the old board’s length. 

Step 2: Cut, rip, and miter the PVC fascia board. Once you have the boards, cut them to the same length you measured earlier. You can use a circular saw or other cutting tools—as long as it can cut the board. After that, rip the top of the boards to complement the roof’s slope. Essentially, it allows the material to sit easily over the roof without leaving ridges or bumps.

 Finally, miter the end of each cut board to 45 degrees.

 Make sure you are wearing the right protective gear while cutting the board. Although it is also okay not to miter it.

On the other hand, you can also ask the shop you bought the fascia board from to cut, rip, and miter it for you. It is especially recommended if you do not have the right tools and protective gear. Or if you are not used to such work. 

Step 3: Properly position the board. Now, it is time to install the boards. And to do that, you must position the board against the ends of the rafters. To avoid incidents, it is also best to ask someone to assist you on this part. 

Step 4: Tack the ends and drive two more nails. Next, tack the ends of the board into the rafter using nails. You can use carpentry nails that are at least 2-3 inches long. Repeat it until you reach fill all spaces and the PVC fascia board is firmly set. 

Once done, nail the board into each rafter again. You can do it by adding 1 to 2 more nails, with a length at least 1 to 4 inches long. 

Step 5: Fill and seal gaps and holes. To ensure that no water will leak through it, fill and seal small gaps, holes, and cracks using body filler putty. Using a knife, simply dip its end on a putty mixture and apply a thin layer on the seams as well as the nail holes. 

Step 6: Use metal drip edges to cover the top of the fascia. Lastly, cover the top of the PVC fascia board using metal drip edges (see our drip edge installation guide). Adding these will prevent moisture from entering the space between the rafter and the board. Essentially, locking out moisture will prevent the materials from rotting and deteriorating. 

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Matt Greenfield

Matt Greenfield is an experienced writer specializing in home improvement topics. He has a passion for educating and empowering homeowners to make informed decisions about their properties. Matt's writing focuses on a range of topics, including windows, flooring, HVAC, and construction materials. With a background in construction and home renovation, Matt is well-versed in the latest trends and techniques in the industry. His articles offer practical advice and expert insights that help readers tackle their home improvement projects with confidence. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional, Matt's writing is sure to provide valuable guidance and inspiration.

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