How much should I budget for soffit fascia replacement in Ottawa?

Soffit and fascia replacement in Ottawa typically runs $8–$20 per linear foot installed, with most full-home projects landing between $3,000–$8,000 depending on home size, material choice, and site conditions.

Soffit and fascia are more than cosmetic — they protect your roof structure from moisture, pests, and Ottawa's harsh freeze-thaw cycles. Deteriorating wood soffit is one of the most common issues we see on older Ottawa homes, particularly post-war bungalows in areas like Alta Vista, Elmvale, and Carlington. When these components fail, you risk water infiltration into your roof deck and attic, which can lead to mold and structural damage that costs far more to fix.

Material choice is the biggest cost driver. Most Ottawa contractors install aluminum or vinyl soffit and fascia, which are the practical standard here given our climate. Aluminum tends to be slightly more expensive but holds up better to Ottawa's temperature swings. Here's a rough breakdown by material:

• Vinyl: $8–$12 per linear foot installed
• Aluminum: $10–$16 per linear foot installed
• Steel or premium options: $15–$20+ per linear foot installed

For a typical Ottawa two-storey home (roughly 150–200 linear feet of perimeter), you're looking at $1,500–$4,000 for a bungalow and $3,500–$8,000+ for a two-storey. These estimates include removal of old material, installation, and basic trim work. Homes with complex rooflines, multiple gables, or significant rotted wood behind the fascia will push costs higher.

Ottawa-specific factors to keep in mind: If your home has original wood soffit and fascia from the 1950s–1970s, there's a good chance the underlying rafter tails or roof decking have some moisture damage that won't be visible until the old material comes off. Budget a contingency of 10–15% for hidden repairs — this is especially common in the Glebe, New Edinburgh, and older Nepean neighbourhoods. Also, if you're in a heritage conservation district, check with the City of Ottawa before changing the appearance of exterior trim.

This is generally not a DIY project. Working at height on ladders or scaffolding around the full perimeter of a home carries serious fall risk, and improper installation can leave gaps that allow squirrels, starlings, and moisture into your attic — a very common Ottawa problem. A professional crew with proper staging can complete most homes in one to two days.

Soffit and fascia work does not typically require a building permit in Ottawa, but if you're doing it alongside a roofing project or structural repair, confirm with the City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or ottawa.ca/building.

Your next steps: Get at least three quotes from reputable exterior contractors, ask specifically whether their price includes disposal of old material and any minor wood repair, and verify they carry WSIB coverage (check at wsib.ca/clearances). Browse verified local contractors in the Ottawa Construction Network directory to find professionals who work in your area.