Eaves
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Eaves are the part of a roof that projects out horizontally beyond the side of the structure it covers. They can have practical functions, such as to provide shade and protection from rain, as well as aesthetic functions, creating a definite distinction between walls and roof.
Typically, the eave’s width is related to the roof pitch. The steeper the pitch is, the narrower the eaves.
[edit] Types of eaves
There are four basic types of eaves:
- Exposed: The finished underside of the roof and supporting rafters are visible from underneath.
- Soffited: Includes a soffit – the panelling which forms the underside of the eaves, connecting the bottom tip of the eave with the side of the building at a 90-degree angle.
- Boxed-in: Encases the roof rafters but meets the side of the building at the same angle as the roof pitch.
- Abbreviated: Cut off almost perpendicular with the side of the building.
Most types of eaves include a fascia, which is a horizontal board that runs around the edge of the eaves to cover the ends of the extended rafters.
Exposed, soffited and boxed-in eaves generally include air vents to ventilate the roof space or roof structure, preventing the accumulation of moisture and so reducing the likelihood of condensation forming. Eaves can also incorporate guttering, which conveys rainwater run off from the roof to a drainage system.
[edit] Purposes of eaves
Eaves prevent rain, snow and other debris from causing leakage-related damage to the building facade, by directing it out and away from the building.
Eaves can also provide shading to windows, helping to maintain comfortable internal conditions. In the winter, low-level sun is able to penetrate windows to warm and light the interior, whereas in summer, the projecting eaves prevent direct sunlight from entering the building.
They can also be used to help define the architectural style of a building. For example, Dutch Colonial houses featured flared eaves that curved up and away from the roof; the architect Frank Lloyd Wright often used sweeping, elongated eaves in his Prairie house designs; and traditional Asian pagodas are defined by tiers of multiple eaves. A-frame houses include eaves that can reach ground level. A characteristic element of the Italianate style is buildings with decorative, overhanging eaves on a slightly pitched roof.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Deputy editor of AT, Tim Fraser, discusses the newly formed society with its current chair, Chris Halligan MCIAT.
Barratt Lo-E passivhaus standard homes planned enmasse
With an initial 728 Lo-E homes across two sites and many more planned for the future.
Government urged to uphold Warm Homes commitment
ECA and industry bodies write to Government concerning its 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment.
Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. Book review.
The emancipation of women in art.
CIOB Construction Manager of the Year 2025
Just one of the winners at the CIOB Awards 2025.
Call for independent National Grenfell oversight mechanism
MHCLG share findings of Building Safety Inquiry in letter to Secretary of State and Minister for Building Safety.
The Architectural Technology Awards
AT Awards now open for this the sixth decade of CIAT.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson awards
Deadline for submissions Friday 30 May 2025.
The benefits of precast, off-site foundation systems
Top ten benefits of this notable innovation.
Encouraging individuals to take action saving water at home, work, and in their communities.
Takes a community to support mental health and wellbeing
The why of becoming a Mental Health Instructor explained.
Mental health awareness week 13-18 May
The theme is communities, they can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and a sense purpose.
Mental health support on the rise but workers still struggling
CIOB Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 shows.
Design and construction material libraries
Material, sample, product or detail libraries a key component of any architectural design practice.
Construction Products Reform Green Paper and Consultation
Still time to respond as consultation closes on 21 May 2025.
Resilient façade systems for smog reduction in Shanghai
A technical approach using computer simulation and analysis of solar radiation, wind patterns, and ventilation.