The eaves are the lower edge of a pitched roof slope, where the roof meets the gutter assembly, the roof overhang or directly the façade. It is a crucial detail in the roof build-up, because all rainwater collects here for discharge, and air inlet for the ventilation of the roof structure also occurs here.
Components of the eaves
A well-detailed eaves consists of:
- Wall plate — the horizontal timber on top of the wall on which the rafters rest
- Rafters — sloping toward the ridge
- Counter battens and tile battens — fixing the roof tiles
- Bottom row of tiles with a possible eaves tile or under-eaves tile
- Gutter — zinc, aluminium, plastic or concealed
- Fascia — horizontal board along the roof edge
- Bird-comb or insect mesh — keeps animals out of the roof structure
Functions
The eaves perform several functions at the same time:
- Water collection and drainage — all rainwater off the slope meets here and is led to the gutter
- Ventilation — in a cold roof, ventilation air enters via the eaves
- Façade protection — by overhanging the wall, the eaves shelter the façade from rain
- Closing the roof structure — keeps out moisture, insects and birds
Types of eaves details
- Concealed gutter — the gutter sits behind the fascia and is invisible from outside
- Hung gutter — an aluminium or zinc gutter is hung from the roof edge
- Overhanging eaves with half-round gutter — classic detail with the gutter in front of the façade
- Flush roof edge — modern detail where the roof finishes flush with the wall
Points to consider
- Vapour-permeable underlay — in an insulated roof the air inlet at the eaves must be detailed carefully
- Continuous insulation — cold bridges often occur right at the eaves
- Gutter maintenance — leaves and debris collect here; regular inspection and cleaning are essential
Related terms
- Wall plate
- Gutter
- Fascia
- Roof overhang
- Rafter
- Roof slope
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