Why is 'Capping' over old wood a bad idea?

Capping (fitting thin uPVC over old wood) is a temporary fix that often causes long-term damage. It traps moisture between the new uPVC and the old timber, which accelerates rot in your rafter ends. A full replacement removes all rotten wood and allows for a proper structural inspection.

The box end is the complex structural corner where the fascia, soffit, and bargeboard meet at the gable end of a house. It requires careful hand-cutting and sealing to ensure it remains waterproof and looks neat. In 2026, a professional box end replacement typically costs between £15–£40 per unit plus labor.

How do I know if my fascias need replacing?

Look for flaking paint, soft spots in the wood, or gutters that are pulling away from the house. If you see 'tiger stripes' (black streaks) on your soffits, it's a sign that water is leaking behind the gutters and rotting the fascia boards from the inside out.

The Curb Appeal Protection

Fascia & Soffit Costs 2026

Your roofline isn't just about looks—it's the primary defense for your roof timbers. In 2026, replacing old timber with modern uPVC or aluminium is a standard part of any high-quality roof replacement.

Component Pricing (2026)

Full Replacement (per m)£100 – £185

Bargeboards (per gable)£600 – £720

Capping (Over sound wood)£85 – £100

*Prices include labor and basic scaffolding. Full replacement involves the removal of all existing timber and a full structural check.

Labor & Logistics

Roofline work requires precise cutting and working at height. Most professional teams work in pairs for safety and alignment.

2-Man Team Daily Rate£250 – £400

Project Duration (3-Bed Semi)1 – 3 Days

Access Tower ScaffoldingIncluded

The "Capping" Trap

Fitters who offer to 'cap' over your old timber for a low price are often hiding a disaster. If your old wood has even a tiny bit of moisture, capping it with uPVC creates a sealed environment where rot spreads rapidly. Always demand a full replacement to ensure your rafter ends stay bone dry for another 30 years.

Integrated Venting

Modern soffits come with integrated vents to ensure continuous airflow through your loft space.

Zero Maintenance

uPVC and Aluminium rooflines never need painting and only require a simple wipe-down every few years.

Rafter Protection

Properly installed fascias prevent rainwater from soaking into the ends of your main roof rafters.

Fascia & Soffit FAQ

Accurate Roofline Estimates

Use our 2026 calculator to see how much adding new fascias, soffits, and bargeboards will add to your roofing project.

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