What is the term for the overhang of a roof?

The term that describes the overhang of a roof is "eave." Eaves are the parts of a roof that extend beyond the walls of a building, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. They are designed to direct rainwater away from the foundation of the structure and help protect the walls and windows from water damage. Additionally, eaves can provide shade and contribute to the overall look of the building.

The other terms listed do not accurately describe the overhang. The gutter is a component that collects and directs rainwater from the roof, typically situated at the lower edge of the eaves. An over-roof is not a commonly recognized term in roofing terminology, and rafters are the structural components that support the roof but do not include the overhanging parts. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in the study of roofing and building design.