Soffit Calculator
Estimated Total Cost
$200 – $500
$4.00 – $10.00 per linear foot (installed)
Material
$100 – $250
Labor
$100 – $250
Coverage
50 sq ft
Material Type
Vinyl
Tip: Vented soffit is recommended for most homes to provide proper attic ventilation. Good airflow prevents moisture buildup, reduces energy costs, and extends roof life. Building codes often require 1 sq ft of net free ventilation area per 150 sq ft of attic floor.
Fascia Repair: Damaged fascia boards should be repaired or replaced before installing new soffit. Budget an additional $6–$20 per linear foot for fascia replacement if needed.
Old Soffit Removal: If replacing existing soffit, add $1–$2 per linear foot for removal and disposal. Total removal cost for this project: $50 – $100.
Disclaimer: Estimates are for budgeting purposes only. Actual costs vary by location, contractor, material availability, and project complexity. Always get professional quotes for exact pricing.
Soffit Cost Breakdown
| Material | Material / LF | Labor / LF | Total / LF |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $2.00 – $5.00 | $2.00 – $5.00 | $4.00 – $10.00 |
| Aluminum | $5.00 – $12.00 | $3.00 – $7.00 | $8.00 – $19.00 |
| Wood | $1.00 – $4.00 | $2.50 – $6.00 | $3.50 – $10.00 |
| Fiber Cement | $3.00 – $8.00 | $3.00 – $7.00 | $6.00 – $15.00 |
* Costs shown for 12" width, solid soffit (1.0× multiplier). Wider soffit and vented styles cost more.
Average Project Costs (Vinyl, 12" Solid)
| Project | Linear Feet | Estimated Total |
|---|---|---|
| Garage Only | 40 LF | $160 – $400 |
| Single Story Eave | 60 LF | $240 – $600 |
| Full Perimeter | 200 LF | $800 – $2,000 |
| Large Home | 300 LF | $1,200 – $3,000 |
How We Calculate
Our soffit cost calculator estimates project costs based on linear footage, soffit width, material type, and soffit type (solid vs. vented). Material and labor costs are calculated per linear foot, with adjustments for width and ventilation.
How the math works: Material cost = linear feet × material rate per LF × width multiplier × soffit type multiplier. Labor cost = linear feet × labor rate per LF × width multiplier. The width multiplier accounts for additional material and labor needed for wider overhangs: 12" (1.0×), 16" (1.33×), 24" (2.0×). Vented soffit adds 10% to material cost due to the perforated or louvered design.
Material Comparison
Vinyl ($2–$5/LF material, $2–$5/LF labor) is the most popular and affordable choice. Maintenance-free, lightweight, and available in many colors. Lifespan: 20–30 years.
Aluminum ($5–$12/LF material, $3–$7/LF labor) is a premium, long-lasting option that resists rust and never needs painting. Ideal for coastal homes. Lifespan: 30–50 years.
Wood ($1–$4/LF material, $2.50–$6/LF labor) offers a classic, natural look. Requires regular painting or staining. Cedar and redwood are naturally rot-resistant. Lifespan: 15–25 years with maintenance.
Fiber Cement ($3–$8/LF material, $3–$7/LF labor) is extremely durable, fire-resistant, and rot-proof. Heavier than vinyl or aluminum, requiring sturdier mounting. Lifespan: 30–50 years.
Solid vs. Vented Soffit
Solid soffit is a continuous panel without perforations. It's used in areas where ventilation is provided by other means (gable vents, ridge vents) or where additional intake venting isn't needed.
Vented soffit has perforations or louvers that allow air to flow into the attic. Most homes benefit from vented soffit for proper attic ventilation, which prevents moisture buildup, reduces cooling costs, and extends roof life. Vented soffit costs about 10% more than solid.
Additional Costs
Our estimates cover soffit material and installation labor. Additional costs may include: fascia board replacement ($6–$20/LF), painting wood soffit ($1–$3/LF), old soffit removal and disposal ($1–$2/LF), J-channel and trim accessories ($0.50–$1.50/LF), and scaffolding for two-story homes ($200–$600).
Data Sources
Pricing data is compiled from HomeAdvisor, Angi, HomeGuide, Fixr, This Old House, Bob Vila, and Homewyse, verified against contractor estimates across multiple US regions (February 2026).
Last updated: 2026-02-04
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does soffit installation cost? +
Soffit installation costs $4–$10 per linear foot for vinyl, $8–$19 for aluminum, $3.50–$10 for wood, and $6–$15 for fiber cement (12" width, solid). These costs include materials and professional labor. A typical full-perimeter soffit replacement (200 LF) costs $800–$3,800 depending on material.
What is the difference between vinyl and aluminum soffit? +
Vinyl soffit ($2–$5/LF material) is the most affordable, lightweight, and maintenance-free option with a 20–30 year lifespan. Aluminum soffit ($5–$12/LF material) costs more but lasts 30–50 years, resists denting better than vinyl, and is ideal for coastal areas where salt air can degrade other materials. Both come in solid and vented styles.
Why is vented soffit important? +
Vented soffit provides critical attic ventilation by allowing fresh air to enter through the eaves and exit through ridge or gable vents. This airflow prevents moisture buildup, reduces summer cooling costs by up to 10–15%, prevents ice dams in winter, and extends shingle lifespan. Building codes typically require 1 sq ft of net free ventilation per 150 sq ft of attic floor area.
Can I install soffit myself? +
Vinyl soffit is the most DIY-friendly option — it's lightweight, cuts easily, and uses simple J-channel mounting. You'll need a ladder, tin snips, a utility knife, and basic tools. Working at height is the main challenge. For two-story homes, professional installation is recommended due to safety concerns. DIY can save 40–60% on labor costs.
How long does soffit last? +
Soffit lifespan varies by material: vinyl lasts 20–30 years, aluminum 30–50 years, wood 15–25 years (with maintenance), and fiber cement 30–50 years. Aluminum and fiber cement are the most durable. Wood requires painting or staining every 3–5 years to prevent rot.
What is the difference between soffit and fascia? +
Soffit is the underside of the roof overhang — the horizontal panel you see when looking up under the eaves. Fascia is the vertical board running along the edge of the roof that the gutter attaches to. Both protect the roof structure from weather and pests. They're typically replaced together since accessing one exposes the other.
When should I replace my soffit? +
Replace soffit when you notice peeling paint or discoloration, visible rot or soft spots (especially with wood), cracks or holes that allow pests, sagging or warped panels, water stains or mold on the underside, or blocked ventilation openings. Damaged soffit can lead to moisture problems in the attic and attract animals like squirrels and birds.
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