Roof Overhang Cladding

Especially important during work is not to overlook ventilation elements and gutters.

When to Start Cladding

Some believe cladding should only begin after the roof is fully built and the roofing material is laid. In reality, to achieve the best quality and efficiency, this work should be done simultaneously with roof installation.

As soon as the truss system is installed—before the sheathing is added—initial work on eaves cladding should begin. All rafter ends must be cut evenly (in a straight line). Both length and angle of cut matter. The cut angle must be parallel to the adjacent wall line.

Next, install the sheathing. Boards are most commonly used. They must be nailed strictly parallel to each other. Only by doing so will the building’s exterior look neat.

It is recommended to install eaves cladding before insulating the walls. This ensures a smoother, tighter joint and prevents moisture from entering gaps between the facade and roof, thus extending the lifespan of insulation.

How and What to Use for Eaves Cladding

To choose the right material, you must understand the key requirements. First, it must protect the roof eaves from weather. Second, it must offer good thermal insulation. Third, it must include proper ventilation. This prevents condensation buildup and protects materials from degradation.

Now that the main requirements are clear, let’s explore material options. Common choices are soffit panels, corrugated steel sheets (profiling), and wooden cladding (wainscoting). Each has unique features and benefits.

Soffit panels are made of plastic and designed specifically for eaves cladding. They resemble siding but are thicker. They are highly resistant to weather and feature perforations for ventilation. Soffit panels are installed perpendicular to the roof plane.

Corrugated steel (corrugated sheet metal) is galvanized steel with a polymer coating. The steel ensures high strength, while the polymer coating provides protection. Also, it comes in various colors and sizes, making installation easier.

If using wooden cladding, select carefully: it should not be too thin or dry. Proper installation is critical. PVC cladding is the most cost-effective. In this case, moisture-resistant panels and plastic corner pieces are used for joint finishing.

Installation Process for Roof Eaves Cladding

After the roofing material is laid, proceed to install eaves cladding. Boards are nailed to the pre-cut rafter ends—both at the ends and underneath. Then, a board is secured to the wall. If the overhang width exceeds 40 cm, add an extra board in the middle. Additional boards are fixed at roof corners. After completing these preparations, install the chosen cladding material.

When all recommendations are followed, eaves cladding will meet all technical standards. Of course, appearance matters too. Use materials that match the roof’s color and texture. For example, when siding the house façade, use soffit panels; a tile roof looks great with corrugated steel cladding.