How to fix a rotting fascia?

[Dan4]

What’s the best way to fix a rotting fascia. 70s house Adelaide. 

   

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Dan4,

Considering the extent of the rot, you are going to have to cut the fascia back and install a new piece of timber.

You'll have to start by disconnecting the gutter and prying this piece of trim back so you have clearance to cut the fascia.

You can then cut the fascia back using a multitool, being careful not to damage the eave in the process.

Once the fascia has been cut and removed, you can cut a new piece of fascia to size, slipping it in place with the eave sheet sitting in the groove on the back of the fascia board, then fix it in place with galvanised finish nails.

You would then reinstall the trim and gutter, fill any nail holes and seal any seams with No More Gaps Exterior Gap Filler before priming and painting.

Considering the location of the rot, there is also likely some kind of issue with water entering this gutter, so it is likely worthwhile having a roofing plumber inspect the gutter as part of the repair.

I wouldn't call it a beginner-friendly repair, but if you're confident, there's no reason you couldn't do it yourself. If you weren't confident, you might consider having a carpenter assist with the repair.

Allow me to tag @Nailbag to see if he has anything he could add.

Jacob

[Nailbag]

Hi @Dan4 

@JacobZ has outlined the process and steps very well. I regularly have to repair this type of damage and its never an easy job to do it properly when all you want to do is replace a small section.

Removing the corner gutter section  from the join the right side of the downpipe is a lucky break. Having this removed will make a world of difference. And I would cut the trip under it at the downpipe instead of prying it back as it will just spring back in the way or break.

Your complication is the top overlapping timber along the roof edge. That needs to pry out to access the rotted one underneath. Then cutting a section of the rotted one under the top will be very challenging, especially without upsetting the roof tiles. I would be using a reciprocating saw to cut the section off, but this would be quite an advanced cut, especially at the angle and access required. But basically it would be a plunge cut following @JacobZ smaller red arrow vertically.

With the price removed, you will need to secure on the inside remaining facia a short length of timber so that when you butt going the new section if won't fall through the even space and give you something to glue and fasten to. Make sure you prime all and cuts to prevent future rot. 

And I also agree that before reinstalling the guttering you establish what caused the rot in the first place and rectify that.

Nailbag

[Dan4]

Thanks. I’m confident to do this myself. Only tricky part is the eves and external sheets are asbestos. Which trying to remove without disturbing is going to be difficult. 

[Dan4]

Hi Nailbag,

what type of timber would you be recommending?

[MitchellMc]

Just a quick safety reminder @Dan4. Asbestosis a serious health hazard if disturbed. If you suspect that the material might be asbestos, do not disturb it. It’s best to have it professionally tested to be sure. If it turns out to be asbestos, professional removal is the safest option. Due to the working at heights, technical complexities of the repair, and the presence of asbestos, I recommend enlisting the services of a professional for this job. For more information on identifying and safely handling asbestos, check out these helpful resources: Asbestos Safety – Safe Work Australia and Asbestos Awareness – WorkSafe Victoria.

Mitchell

[Dan4]

Thanks for the advice. Yes I will look into getting a professional. What type of wood should I check that they are replacing it with? Some sort of treated pine? Or something else. 

[MitchellMc]

Typically, you'd use fascia board @Dan4, which is an H3-treated Pine.

Mitchell