Graphical Construction Glossary >> Roofs and roofing. >> eaves

eaves

The lower part of a sloping roof, the part of a roof which overhangs the walls.

Define: - A section through a roof overhang.

Their main purpose is to provide a weatherproof joint between the roof itself and the walls.

• To this end the roof ALWAYS runs over the walls to a varying degree.
• Quite often the overhang is wide enough to provide shade for walls, doors and windows in in hot climates, thus contributing to the energy efficiency of the home.
• The introduction of eaves vents increases the circulation of air in the roof space.
• It is a requirement in the BCA and in many other building codes that the eaves should be sealed to prevent the entry of vermin into the roof space. One method is to line them permanently with compressed cement sheet.
• Another way is to leave the eaves open for architectural effect and to increase ventilation and to decrease heat build up. In this case the gaps between the rafters should be sealed with mesh to stop the entry of vermin. See photo below.

Define: Vermin mesh - An unlined eaves with the gaps between the rafters sealed to stop the entry of vermin with mesh

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Adam Smith 1723-1790

"When we build, let us think that we build for ever."John Ruskin 1819-1900