Q:
I need to replace the fascia on a curved porch. I think that my best option may be two widths of 3/8-in. bending plywood laminated together. Although the face would be smooth for paint, I don’t know how well the bottom edge could be finished and painted. Is this the best way, or is there a better technique?
Douglas Kistler, Urbana, IL
A:
Roe A. Osborn, Fine Homebuilding’s managing editor, replies: The problem with bending plywood is that it’s not designed for use outdoors, so I’d stay away from it. There are synthetic moldings on the market that are flexible, paintable, and easy to mill. This stuff comes in many profiles, including flat 1x stock, but it’s pricey. If you want to do a wood fascia, I recommend laminating thin layers of solid wood, as in the drawing below.
Some might recommend laminating the fascia in place, but I have more control working on the ground using a laminating jig of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) sheets and clamping cauls. (At the very least, this way the glue doesn’t drip on my head.) Have a helper on hand, and wear latex gloves and maybe a Tyvek suit for the glue-up. Prime all four sides and install.
