1. What is Soffit Area?

The soffit area refers to the exposed surface beneath the overhanging section of a roof eave. In Canadian construction, calculating soffit area is important for material estimation and proper ventilation planning.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( \text{eaves} \) — Length of the eave in meters
• \( \text{depth} \) — Depth of the overhang in meters

Explanation: The calculation provides the total area of soffit needed for a given eave length and overhang depth.

3. Importance of Soffit Calculation

Details: Accurate soffit area calculation helps in purchasing the correct amount of materials and ensures proper roof ventilation which is crucial in Canada's varying climate conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure the total length of eaves and the depth of overhang in meters. Enter these values to get the soffit area in square meters.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is soffit important in Canadian homes?
A: Soffit provides ventilation to the attic space and protects rafters from weather elements, which is especially important in Canada's harsh winters.

Q2: How much ventilation does soffit provide?
A: Typically, 1 sq.ft of net free vent area is recommended for every 150 sq.ft of attic space with soffit vents.

Q3: Should I include gable ends in my calculation?
A: No, this calculator is specifically for eave soffits. Gable ends require separate calculations.

Q4: What's the typical overhang depth in Canada?
A: Standard overhangs are typically 12-24 inches (0.3-0.6m), but this can vary based on architectural style and regional building codes.

Q5: How much extra material should I account for?
A: It's recommended to add 10-15% to your total calculated area for waste and cutting allowances.