What is a soffit, and how is it used in building design?

A soffit is the underside of a roof overhang or the eaves of a building. It is typically made of the same material as the roof itself and is used to cover and protect the rafters, while also providing a finished appearance to the building exterior. Soffits are commonly used in building design to enhance the appearance of a building, improve its energy efficiency by providing ventilation and insulation, and to prevent water damage by directing rainwater away from the building's foundation. They can also hide unsightly vents, pipes, and other building systems that run along the roofline.

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