Whether you’re building your very first home or you're an investor ready for your next project, you may have come across the term ‘eave’. Even if you haven’t heard of eaves, there’s a good chance you know what they are! This is because the architectural feature is extremely popular among many Australians.
At Mojo, we’re all about getting the most out of your budget. This is why we include eaves as standard in our homes with pitched roofs. Not only do they provide essential protection from the Aussie climate, but they also add that extra visual appeal to your home’s design. Ready to see how they work? Read more about why eaves play an important role for many Mojo homes!
What are eaves?
In simple terms, eaves are the edges of your roof that overhang and extend past your home’s external walls. Because they run the entire length of your house, they’re a major part of your home’s architectural DNA, adding street appeal and character.
To ensure they go the distance in the Aussie climate, roof eaves are made from durable materials such as wood, aluminium, or PVC. This high-quality construction ensures they can withstand anything the weather throws at them while protecting your home for the long haul!
Why are eaves a popular option for Australian home designs?
Whether you’re looking for a flat, gable, or skillion roof, eaves are a great way to preserve your home’s structural integrity and keep it looking brand new for longer. Here are some of their many benefits:
1. Protection for your home
The primary job of an eave is to protect the underside of your roof and the exterior walls. By directing rainwater away from your home’s face, you drastically reduce the risk of water damage, moisture, and the growth of mould or mildew. In heavy rainfall or flood-prone areas, eaves ensure water drips safely into the garden rather than running off and causing erosion or staining your beautiful facade.
2. Water management
Eaves provide the perfect foundation for your guttering and downspouts. This is one of the most effective ways to channel water away from your home’s foundations, preventing the long-term structural issues every homeowner wants to avoid.
3. Natural temperature regulation
We all know the Aussie sun can be relentless! Because eaves extend out from the home, they provide vital shade to your windows and walls. By blocking direct, intense sunlight, they help maintain a much cooler indoor temperature. This means less reliance on air conditioning, lower energy bills, and a longer lifespan for your window and door finishes.
4. Design
Beyond the practical wins, eaves just look great. They add architectural interest and depth to your facade, making your home stand out on the street. With a range of customisable styles available, you can easily integrate eaves that complement your Mojo design.
Are eaves the same as a soffit?
It’s a common mix-up, but while they work together, they aren’t the same thing! To keep it simple: the eave is the actual part of the roof that overhangs your exterior walls. The soffit is the horizontal panel under the eave; it’s what you see when you’re standing next to your wall and looking straight up.
The soffit does more than just provide a clean, finished look to your roofline. It can be vented to allow air to circulate through your roof space, helping regulate temperature and preventing moisture build-up. Alternatively, a solid soffit offers maximum protection for the underlying structure against the elements. Together, they ensure your Mojo home is well-ventilated, protected, and looking its absolute best from every angle!
Adding decorative details such as Eaves with Mojo
At Mojo, we’re all about adding the details that make a house a home. That’s why 450mm eaves are standard on our homes with pitched roofs. We install the eave linings during the lock-up stage, ensuring your new home is weatherproof and secure from the get-go.
Want to make your home extra energy efficient? Increasing your eaves to 900mm adds extra shading, helping you achieve that coveted 7-star energy rating and BASIX compliance by blocking harsh direct sunlight.
Whichever option you choose, your facade is a reflection of you, and eaves are a huge part of that impact. Take the time to explore the different styles and finishes we offer at our MyChoice Design Studio. Ready to build a home that's innovative in both its visual and practical design? Contact us today, and let's get started on your new home build!