What is the correct name for the trim board applied to the lower edge of a sloping roof before the surface material is added?

The trim board applied to the lower edge of a sloping roof is known as the fascia. The fascia serves several essential functions, including providing a finished look to the edges of the roof and serving as a support for the lower edge of the roof surface materials. It also helps to protect the roof structure by preventing moisture from getting behind the roof covering and into the rafters.

In addition, the fascia is often installed to connect and support the gutter system, which channels rainwater away from the roof and foundation of a building. The proper installation of the fascia is crucial, as it helps ensure the roof's longevity and functionality.

While other terms like gutter, soffit, and eave are related to roofing and exterior finishes, they refer to different components. The gutter collects and directs water away, the soffit is the underside of the eave that can be ventilated or solid, and the eave refers to the part of the roof that overhangs the walls of the building. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why fascia is the correct term for the trim board at the lower edge of a sloping roof.