What does the term "overhang" refer to in roofing?

The term "overhang" in roofing specifically refers to the portion of the roof that extends beyond the walls of the structure. This design feature serves several important purposes: it can help direct rainwater away from the sides of the building, reducing potential water damage, and provide additional shade to windows and walls, improving energy efficiency by keeping the interior cooler. Overhangs can also enhance the architectural appearance of a building, contributing to its overall aesthetic.

The other options do not correctly define "overhang." For example, the area below the roofline refers to the eaves and other structural components that are under the roof, while the height of the roof above the walls relates to the overall vertical measurement from the top of the walls to the peak of the roof, and the slope of the roof addresses the angle or pitch at which the roof is built. None of these capture the essence of what an "overhang" is in roofing terminology.