Running Exterior Trim
Fascias, rakes, soffits and corner boards aren't scrutinized like interior woodwork, but they still have to look good and stand up to weather.
Synopsis: This guide to installing exterior trim emphasizes details that promote longevity, from selecting the right stock to using flashing to prevent water infiltration. The author, a New England builder, discusses eave and rake details, fascia and soffit assemblies, traditional cornice returns, corner boards, and water tables.
No part of building a house is more fun than putting up the exterior trim. It’s like decorating a cake or coloring in a picture. After the rush of framing lumber and plywood, the trim is the welcome stage of finer joinery that can bring out the house’s character.
In more than 17 years of building in New England, I’ve learned a few things about wood, weather and details that make trim last. Some lessons come from my own mistakes, but others come from working on old houses and seeing the legacy of carpenters whose work still looks good after more…
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