What are the overhangs at the lowest part of a roof called?

The term for the overhangs at the lowest part of a roof is eaves. Eaves are designed to extend beyond the walls of a building, providing protection to the walls and foundation from rainwater, and they also help to control the flow of water away from the structure. This feature is essential for preventing water damage and for directing runoff to a specified area such as gutters, which then channel the water away from the house. Eaves can also add a visual element to the architecture of a building and contribute to the overall aesthetic by enhancing rooflines.

In contrast, fascia refers to the board that runs horizontally along the edges of the roof and is typically where the gutters are attached, while gables describe the triangular portion of a wall between the edges of intersecting roof slopes. Ridges are the highest points where two roof surfaces meet, often forming a peak. Understanding these terms is crucial for accurately discussing roofing and building structures.