Replacing Or Capping Soffits?

[Tarser]

Sorry, I've duplicated this question as I may have put it in the wrong section.

My fascia boards/soffits etc are old and black with mould. I want to get this fixed. Here's the problem: The big companies tell me that 'capping' over the old boards is a cowboy bodge job and should never be done - like putting a plaster over a cancer! Replacement is expensive and being somewhat sceptical of everyone's motivations, I have sought out what others say. Someone I trust who has done lots of good work for me in the past has said that capping can be better than replacement (and far cheaper). He tells me that my boards are not rotten, so it's okay to hammer new ones over them.

I am prepared to pay for replacements with a 15 year guarantee if that's the best thing to do to avoid future problems. On the other hand, I don't want to spend more than necessary. Is capping REALLY for cowboys or are the big boys on the make and holding back on cheaper alternatives? I have exactly no idea!

[KJN]

Had mine capped approx 15 years ago, was capped as wood was ok, to keep the strength, and it cost less, no problems to date, 15 year guarantee? Don't want to be a spoiler but how many of this type of companies will still be around in 15 years, unless you have gone to like Anglian , Everest etc, then they would say replace, Good luck what ever you decide.

[The Builder]

"J" - shaped uPVC boards are intended to fix over existing timber fascias. This is done all the time. It is most definitely not a cowboy bodge. The only proviso is that the present ones are sound enough to carry the new ones, which it seems they are.

These bigger firms are simply after the more expensive work. I avoid them at all costs. They can rarely be trusted to make an objective assessment. They just chase "targets".

Rely instead on opinion from a trusted, experienced guy. All that nonsense about cowboys is an insult.