Can Metal Clips Stop Fascia Board From Spreading Apart At Joints?
Do Metal Clips Help Prevent Fascia Boards from Splitting? An Analysis of Effectiveness
This video discusses the effectiveness of small metal clips used to prevent fascia boards from twisting and separating at the joints. The video raises concerns about the clips' holding power and proposes alternative solutions.
Fascia Board Twisting and Separation
The video begins by showing a metal clip nailed to the bottom of a fascia board. Fascia boards are the horizontal boards that run along the edges of a roof, covering the ends of the rafters. They are crucial for supporting the roof structure and providing a finished look to the eaves.
The video explains that fascia boards can twist due to various factors. One common cause is uneven shrinkage of the lumber, which can cause one board to twist away from the roof. The video mentions a case where a 2x10 fascia board twisted up to 1.5 inches, creating a significant gap.
The Ineffectiveness of Small Metal Clips
The video argues that the small metal clips commonly used to prevent fascia board separation are ineffective. The main reason cited is the lack of holding power. The clips are simply nailed to the bottom of the board and don't provide enough strength to resist the twisting forces.
The video shows a close-up of a clip where part of it is already coming loose, further supporting the claim of weak holding power.
Alternative Solutions Proposed in the Video
The video proposes alternative solutions that supposedly offer a more secure way to prevent fascia board separation. Here are two suggestions mentioned:
Straps: The video suggests using straps along the fascia board or even in the back. These straps would be screwed into the fascia board on each side, providing a firmer and more secure connection.
Screws: The video mentions that if the metal clips were longer and had holes for screws, they might be a more viable option. Screws would provide additional holding power compared to just nails.
Corner Clips and Potential Issues
The video also discusses the use of metal clips specifically designed for corners. The concern raised here is that these corner clips wouldn't be effective unless there's a gap between the fascia board and the adjoining valley board.
The video acknowledges that the valley board might be cut in the center, creating a gap that the corner clip could address. However, if the valley board and fascia board are flush with no gap, the corner clip wouldn't serve a purpose.
