Open Eave

Before intalling soffit, you will need to install the 'F' Trim which will hold the soffit panels. Measure for this by using a level to draw a reference line on the side wall of the house even with the lower edge of the wood fascia board at the end of each wall. Strike a chalk line 7/8" above this line on the side wall and another chalk line 7/8" above the lower edge of the fascia board. Install 'F' Trim along the chalk lines with the long stem of the 'F' pointing up. This will form the support of the soffit panels. Measure the distance between receiving channels from back edge to back edge. Subtract 1/4" from this measurement for contraction and expansion, and cut soffit panels to fit. Slide panels into place, inserting the tongue of each new panel into the groove of the installed panel and covering the nailing hem. For eaves over 18" in width, you will need to install intermediate nailing supports to keep the soffit from sagging.

Closed Eave

If the overhang on the home is closed, you will need to use 'J' Channel on the side wall. Install 'F' Trim and 'J' Channel by measuring and snapping chalk lines in the same manner as for open eaves. Measure the distance between receiving channels ('F' Trim and 'J' Channel) from back edge to back edge. Subtract 1/4" from this measurement to allow for contraction and expansion, and cut soffit panels to fit. (For panels over 36" wide, subtract 1/2" to allow for expansion and contraction.) Insert ends of soffit panels into the receiving channels, align and nail panel to the sub-fascia through the nailing hem. For succeeding panels, insert the tongue of the new panel into the previously installed panel, covering the nailing hem.

Closing Overhang Ends

Cut a piece of 'J' Channel the length of the overhang. Nail the 'J' Channel into the overhang and fit it into the 'F' Trim and 'J' Channel that support the soffit.