by Roofer911.com |
A roof cornice is that lovely horizontal decorative molding on classical style homes, also sometimes called a crown molding. Cornice is a word from Italian meaning ledge and is both decorative and functional. The cornice is just above the frieze, another horizontal element which in classical architecture might be decorated with sculptured artwork or a saying. You can see this in the design of many classical buildings like libraries or courthouses. The frieze on the Supreme Court of the United States says, “Justice the Guardian of Liberty”.
The original purpose of the cornice was to throw water away from buildings’ walls. Today that function is taken care of by the eaves overhanging the edge of a house. Eaves can be designed to be large to non-existent. Frank Lloyd Wright designed homes called Prairie Style that reflected his love of the wide open spaces of the Midwest and feature broad low sloping roofs with massively overhanging eaves. When you have eaves, they can be open Some houses are designed without eaves and the water is shed by the roofing shingles that extend over the edge and are supported by a piece of trim over top of a frieze board.
If you suspect you might need a roof replacement, call some roofers for a thorough inspection. They can discuss the design of your roof and eaves. If your roof cornice is an open design, they can enclose it if you wish to add gutters or create a different look for your home.
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