The term "soffit" can refer to the underside of a roof eave.
The term soffit refers to the underside of any construction element, such as the underside of a flight of stairs, the underside of a projecting cornice or the underside of an arch supported either by columns or piers. Soffit also describes the space above kitchen cabinets where the ceiling and wall meet, as well as the exposed undersurface of an overhanging roof eave.
Types Of Soffits
Interior soffits can vary in terms of exposure profile. Soffit profile, which is measured from wall to fascia, can measure anywhere from 2 to 3 inches (a few centimeters) to 3 feet (more than a meter), depending on construction needs. Exterior soffits usually bridge the gap between a house and the roof eaves where the top of an exterior house wall meets the roof.
Interior Kitchen Soffits
Kitchen soffits can house recessed lighting.
Kitchen soffits add dimension to a kitchen ceiling. By closing the gap between the top of kitchen cabinets and the ceiling, a kitchen soffit can serve as either a design element or a feature that enhances the functionality of the room. Kitchen soffits can provide ample space for recessed lighting that showcases cabinets, rope lighting that illuminates the ceiling, or a glass-enclosed area for housing collectibles. These soffits also can serve a more practical purpose, such as adding a space for wiring and plumbing or increasing kitchen storage space.
Exterior Vinyl Soffits
Exterior soffits can be made of vinyl or wood.
Less expensive than wood soffits, exterior vinyl soffits are a durable, man-made product that's easy to maintain and long-lasting. Because vinyl soffits are not made of wood, they are a good choice for individuals who are concerned about the environment and prefer a product that does not require the use of trees. On the down side, vinyl soffits may have a plastic appearance that is not as aesthetically pleasing as the look of real wood. Some manufacturers can adjust the amount of gloss applied to a vinyl soffit so that it looks less like vinyl and more like painted wood. Some vinyl soffits even come with a grain texture designed to mimic that of real wood.
Exterior
Although wood soffits are considered superior in appearance to vinyl soffits, they cost more than the vinyl options, regardless of which type of wood is used. In addition, wood soffits do not last as long as vinyl alternatives, and they require more maintenance, including a yearly application of a protective solutions designed to limit water damage and rot. Because these soffits are made of wood, a natural resource, they may not be regarded as eco-friendly.
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