[NickWa]

We are doing a major renovation that includes removing stucco and siding and putting up 1.5" exterior insulation. For that reason, the existing soffit will be removed.

I am having trouble thinking of a way to efficiently remove it and get the exterior insulation up (windows are all being changed and resized as well), and get the soffit back up right away.

We are in Ontario Canada and I am wondering if I will have issues with lots of bugs moving into the attic, if I have the soffit out for a few weeks while I get the rest of the exterior done and exterior insulation up. Once that's up, I can get the soffits back in.


Thoughts?

 

[Nealtw]

You could just staple up bug screen

https://www.homedepot.ca/product/phifer-bettervue-36-inch-x-25-ft-black-insect-screen/1000858627

 

[Bud9051]

It's important to get your new exterior foam all the way up to the top of the top plate and even some rigid foam on the top. That usually means the soffit will will then attach to the new exterior surface.

Birds are nesting this time of year so an open soffit can attract them.

Bud

 

[NickWa]

It's important to get your new exterior foam all the way up to the top of the top plate and even some rigid foam on the top. That usually means the soffit will will then attach to the new exterior surface.

Birds are nesting this time of year so an open soffit can attract them.

Bud

Yes Bud, I agree, which is why the existing soffit is coming off. I actually was thinking about larger bugs and bees/wasps, but definitely don't want birds in there either. I will have to go with the bug screen and keep an eye if any holes open up I guess.

 

[Bud9051]

Did I mention squirrels?? This isn't their nesting season, but I wouldn't trust them. Once in they can chew their way out. Once established they will chew their way in if blocked.

Been there done that.

Are you covering the rigid with another layer of sheathing or hanging the siding with fasteners right through the foam. I installed 3.5" in two layers (2" + 1.5") so could not nail through that much insulation. The added sheathing gave me a place for nails.

One thing I learned after the fact is the extra outbound insulation will keep the siding much cooler and result in some condensation, mine worse than yours. The recommend strapping to provide an air gap but I just relied on the vinyl siding being very open to air flow.

Just wanted to mention this, not sure how yours is going together.

Bud

 

[Old Thomas]

Birds and squirrels will like their new home. Staple up some screen like Nealtw suggested or scrap cardboard will work for a while.

 

[NickWa]

Did I mention squirrels?? This isn't their nesting season, but I wouldn't trust them. Once in they can chew their way out. Once established they will chew their way in if blocked.

Been there done that.

Are you covering the rigid with another layer of sheathing or hanging the siding with fasteners right through the foam. I installed 3.5" in two layers (2" + 1.5") so could not nail through that much insulation. The added sheathing gave me a place for nails.

One thing I learned after the fact is the extra outbound insulation will keep the siding much cooler and result in some condensation, mine worse than yours. The recommend strapping to provide an air gap but I just relied on the vinyl siding being very open to air flow.

Just wanted to mention this, not sure how yours is going together.

Bud

1.5" rigid foam over the existing sheathing then 1x furring strips strapped over the foam. Engineered wood lap siding will fasten to the furring strips.

 

[Bud9051]

You've been doing your homework . good job.
Do you have 2x4 walls or 2x6? Mine are 2x4 and we often see people adding the 2" foil faced foam board under new siding. Although my 3.5" retrofit provides great insulation numbers I doubt i would recommend it to anyone who isn't an energy nut like myself.

As for performance, your exterior foam will make an impressive difference by air sealing and covering all framing including the rim joist and top plate.

Be sure to follow up and let us know how you like it.

Bud

 

[NickWa]

You've been doing your homework . good job.
Do you have 2x4 walls or 2x6? Mine are 2x4 and we often see people adding the 2" foil faced foam board under new siding. Although my 3.5" retrofit provides great insulation numbers I doubt i would recommend it to anyone who isn't an energy nut like myself.

As for performance, your exterior foam will make an impressive difference by air sealing and covering all framing including the rim joist and top plate.

Be sure to follow up and let us know how you like it.

Bud

Thanks Bud, I will. Existing walls are 2x4 and addition will be 2x6.