Most roofs across the UK have wooden fascia boards fittings. Not only does the fascia create a smooth, uniform appearance, but it also protects the roof from weather damage. If you have gutters, they are also attached to the fascia.
However, like any other component of your roof, fascia boards eventually wear out. You should replace the fascia if you notice any wood rot or water damage on the boards. Most homeowners will have to replace these boards at one point or another. Here’s a cost analysis for fascia board replacement costs in the UK.
What to Expect During Replacement
A roofer will do more than just replace a few boards when you need new fascia. The entire process involves a variety of different projects. To begin, you will need to erect the scaffolding. After completing this, it’s time to remove the existing fascia. It’s critical to look for any signs of rot before continuing. Once the new boards firmly fit on the rafters, you can install guttering, if desired. Finally, fit new felt and vents to the eaves level.
The entire process takes about three days to complete. You don’t want to rush through the process, as it is easy to overlook critical aspects. After replacing the boards, you should expect them to last for several years with minimal maintenance.
Average Replacement Costs
The average cost to replace fascia boards varies in different regions of the UK. Depending on where you live, you may end up paying more or less than the median price. Most homeowners should budget about £1,675 for this roofing project. If you have a rather large home, the cost will increase based on the size of the roof. Expect to pay about £100 per metre.
Most of the costs go towards scaffolding. Expect to pay around £700 for scaffolding alone, which is about one-third of the total cost. You’ll need to put aside an additional £175 for materials, including new timber. Labour will run another £750, and you should also budget a final £50 to cover replacement tiles and waste removal.
It’s also important to note that the total cost may increase if structural problems appear during the replacement. For example, if your home requires additional scaffolding, expect to pay more. Rotten rafters will also increase your budget, and if you need any cement work, the total cost will increase accordingly.
Additional Complementary Work
While a roofer is replacing the fascia boards, it is an excellent time to go ahead and take care of some other projects at the same time. Doing so will save time, and you may also end up paying less for labour.
Many homeowners also opt to repair or replace their guttering. You may want to install new rainwater downpipes to help prevents flooding. If you have roof tiles, you should fix or replace them while the scaffolding goes up. Repairs to the roof rafters or cement pointing should also be under consideration.
Always Shop Around
Before you hire a roofer, you should at least obtain three independent quotes. Not every tradesperson charges the same price, and others provide additional services for the same cost. If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll want to make sure you don’t go over. Remember that the lowest quote is not always the best one. Be sure to ask your neighbours for recommendations on who to hire or who to avoid. Shopping around will ensure you not only get a reasonable price, but you also find the right tradesman for the job.