Repair Soffit Vents

Tools:

ladder
hammer
flat bar
utility knife
tape measure
stapler
combination square
paintbrush
wire brads
backsaw
safety glasses
new mesh, nails and trim for vents

1. Put on the safety glasses and remove trim using flat bar and hammer (figure A). Gently pry up trim pieces, and insert the pry bar so the gap in the center lines up with any nails.

2. If you plan on reusing the trim pieces, be sure to label them so you'll know exactly where they go when it's time to put them back up.

3. Once trim is out, tear out old mesh using a pry bar or your hands. Also clear out any debris from vents.

4. Use a tape measure to take an accurate measurement for how long the new mesh and, if needed, new trim pieces need to be.

6. Use utility knife to cut of excess trim at end of vent (figure C). Tack up new trim with wire brads or brad nails. Drive nails into ceiling joists, which should be about one foot apart.

7. Use utility knife to cut off excess mesh along trim (figure D). Use the edge of the trim as a guideline for cut.

8. Paint new trim, and be careful not to get paint on the new mesh. This will clog the mesh and the vents will not work as well. Hold a piece of cardboard to the mesh to serve as a shield while painting.