What is defined as the edge of a roof that overhangs the exterior wall?

The term that describes the edge of a roof that overhangs the exterior wall is the eave. Eaves serve several important functions, including providing protection to the walls from rainwater runoff and helping to direct water into the gutters. This overhanging portion also assists in creating a transition between the roof and the wall surface, contributing to the overall aesthetics of the building.

In roofing terminology, the eave is a critical aspect as it helps in preventing water damage to the structure and can also influence ventilation in the attic space.

The other terms listed do not describe the roof overhang accurately. A gutter refers to the channel that collects and directs rainwater away from the structure, while a ridge signifies the highest point of the roof where two sloping surfaces meet. Fascia is the board that runs horizontally along the lower edge of the roof, just behind the eave, and serves to support the ends of the rafters as well as helping to hold the gutter in place. Understanding these distinctions is vital for comprehending roofing systems and their components.