Bending Aluminum Fascia

Aluminum fascia provides protection to the areas of your home not protected by the roof. Attaching an aluminum fascia will provide a run-off for excessive water and help maintain unprotected areas. It can be applied over the gutters and the roof ends. In addition, provides an additional way to remove water and build up from the roof.

Here are a few steps to help you bend aluminum fascia in order to make it match the roof slope and angles. This project should not require any additional assistance to bend the aluminum into shape but will require help when you go to install the aluminum fascia to the roof.

Step 1: Acquire a Brake Tool

A brake tool is a device that is used to bend aluminum and other metals. It can be obtained from an equipment supply store, hardware store or home improvement center. You should obtain one of these before starting the project. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the way the tool works by performing several practice bends.

A combination square can be used if you are unable to rent or purchase a brake. The combination square will give you a solid edge to work off as you manually bend the aluminum into form. Using the combination square is much more labor-intensive than using the brake tool.

Step 2: Create Cuts in the Aluminum

Line the aluminum piece up with the combination square in a straight edge and measure in about an inch. Make small cuts in the aluminum using your utility knife. This will help the aluminum to bend easier. Make sure the cuts are random and are not so deep that the aluminum snaps off.

Step 3: Bend the Aluminum

From the cut lines, bend the aluminum 90 degrees, using the brake or combination square. This will provide the cover that will be attached to the rain gutters on the fascia board.

Using the utility knife again, mark cuts where the aluminum fascia needs to meet in order to match the roof. Cut triangles at the bend points, which will facilitate the bends in the fascia.

Step 4: Bend the Fascia to Match the Gutters

Use the combination square set perpendicular to the aluminum fascia and hold it against the underside. Place one hand under the fascia and the other on the combination square. Gently push up to bend the material into the angle that matches the gutters.

Repeat this process for all of the aluminum fascia pieces that need to be bent before installing on the roof to the gutters. Aluminum is a soft metal so any bends that are incorrect can be adjusted when attached. Roofing nails can be used to attach the aluminum to the fascia above the gutters. Be sure again to match the slope and angle of the roof with the aluminum fascia to ensure that the water will run downward and off the roof, not be impeded and pool behind the aluminum.