R337.7.5 Enclosed Roof Eaves and Roof Eave Soffits

The exposed underside of enclosed roof eaves having either a boxed-in roof eave soffit with a horizontal underside, or sloping rafter tails with an exterior covering applied to the underside of the rafter tails, shall be protected by one of the following:

1. Noncombustible material.
2. Ignition-resistant material.
3. One layer of ⁵/₈-inch Type X gypsum sheathing applied behind an exterior covering on the underside of the rafter tails or soffit.
4. The exterior portion of a 1-hour fire resistive exterior wall assembly applied to the underside of the rafter tails or soffit including assemblies using the gypsum panel and sheathing products listed in the Gypsum Association Fire Resistance Design Manual.
5. Boxed-in roof eave soffit assemblies with a horizontal underside that meet the performance criteria in Section R337.7.10 when tested in accordance with the test procedures set forth in ASTM E2957.
6. Boxed-in roof eave soffit assemblies with a horizontal underside that meet the performance criteria in accordance with the test procedures set forth in SFM Standard 12-7A-3.

Exceptions: The following materials do not require protection:

1. Gable end overhangs and roof assembly projections beyond an exterior wall other than at the lower end of the rafter tails.
2. Fascia and other architectural trim boards.