Soffits aren’t something homeowners think about often, but they serve an important purpose. Soffits are boards that cover the underside of your roof’s overhanging areas to protect it from moisture and animals such as squirrels and birds. There’s no set timeline for how often you should replace your soffits, but there are some signs to look out for, which we’ll detail in this guide.
Soffit replacement costs an average of $2,300 but could be anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the material and extent of damage.* Learn more about the factors that affect soffit pricing below.
*Cost figures are based on averages from multiple sources, including Angi and HomeGuide.
Average Soffit Replacement Cost by Type
Most hardware retailers sell soffits in 12-foot sections that range from $10 to $23. The price fluctuates based on material but averages around $2 in linear feet of soffits. The most common soffit materials are aluminum, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), plastic, vinyl, and wood. Wood is the most affordable material per linear foot, while aluminum soffits are the most expensive.
See average costs by type of material below:
| Soffit Material | Cost per Linear Foot | Cost per 12-Foot Section |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | $8 to $20 | $10 to $22 |
| PVC or plastic | $3 to $7 | $6 to $12 |
| Vinyl | $5 to $8 | $14 to $23 |
| Wood | $1 to $3 | $14 to $22 |
Other Soffit Replacement Cost Factors
Material has the biggest impact on soffit replacement costs, but several other expenses must be considered.
Damage Repair
If your soffits are damaged, there’s likely other roof damage to address. Enlist a professional roofing contractor to assess damage and give you an itemized breakdown of what needs to be repaired or replaced and the estimated cost.
Labor
Labor will likely be the biggest chunk of your total soffit replacement cost. In most areas, installation costs range between $1.50 and $3 per foot. Labor costs will be higher if your soffits are difficult to access, either because you have landscaping features that make them hard to reach or your home is more than one story. Your location also affects labor pricing. Expect to pay more if you live in a metropolitan area where living expenses are higher.
Old Soffit Removal
Before installing a new soffit, the old one has to be removed. This should take minimal labor if your existing soffit is in reasonably good shape. Labor will be more intensive and thus costlier if there’s more severe rot or other damage.
Painting
Precut and synthetic soffits are typically sold already finished. Custom-cut or wood soffits will likely be unfinished and require painting to match your home’s exterior. Painting your home’s soffits costs an average of $5.50 per square foot.
Warranty Coverage
You may have the option to get a workmanship warranty to cover any needed future repairs. This can also increase your home’s resale value.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Roof’s Soffit
It’s important to take care of your roof, as even minor damage can quickly turn into a big, expensive problem. Regularly inspect all parts of your roof to see what maintenance is needed. If you notice an issue with your soffit boards, enlist a professional sooner rather than later to avoid a more costly issue such as water damage.
Here are some signs you should replace your soffit:
- Evidence of pests, such as nests and bitemarks
- Poor ventilation coming from your roof’s overhang
- Gutter movement, such as bending or twisting
- Visible damage that could lead to water buildup inside your roof
Professional vs. DIY Soffit Replacement
You may be able to replace your roof’s soffits yourself if you’re comfortable with home improvement projects. Soffit installation is relatively simple, though the job is physically demanding and requires equipment, such as a circular saw, flat pry bar, ladder, and other building materials. If these are things you’ll need to buy, it may be more cost-effective to hire a professional.
We recommend hiring a professional roofer for any kind of roof repair to ensure a quality result. Roof experts have the necessary tools and skills and will ensure the job is up to code.
Contact a Roofing Professional
Do your research when enlisting a roofing professional to install soffit. Verify that your roofing contractor is licensed and get a quote for the total cost before signing a contract. Read online reviews and ask neighbors which companies they’ve had positive experiences to ensure the best price and quality.
Frequently Asked Questions About Soffit Replacement Costs
Consider a Broader Home Inspection
When purchasing or selling a home, it is critical to complete a thorough inspection to understand the condition of the property. A standard home inspection includes assessing a home’s systems and physical structure. After the process, the inspector will provide a report detailing their findings and recommendations.
If you are considering buying a home or putting your home on the market, we strongly recommend finding an ASHI home inspector in your area.