The transition from wall to roof, or at the junction of two walls requires an element of exterior trim to help make the change. That trim might be simple and functional, or a decorative feature from historical styles of architecture.

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Corners:

The shape of a house will create corners wherever walls change direction and they will be oriented to the inside (concave) or to the outside (convex).

Characteristics of corner trim:

• May be simple or decorative.
• Pronounced or projecting corners may have 'quoins' (shown in the picture on the right). Quoins create the look of a strong structure and definition.
• Modern corner trim may act to simply cover the cut ends of wall cladding - "U" and "J" trim pieces combined with 'corner board' trim creates a clean joint.
  
• Retrofit of corner trim on existing buildings must consider the continuity of weather and air barriers, and the integrity of vented cladding or 'rain screen'.
  

Cornices:

A 'cornice' is the area where a wall meets the overhang of a roof structure, also known as the roof eaves. The term comes from Classical Roman and Greek architecture, and describes the top portion of an 'entablature' - the part that sits on top of a column.

Characteristics of Cornices:

• Modern version has been greatly simplified as ventilated 'soffits' and transition pieces, like "J", "U" and "Z" vinyl trim.
• Molding patterns are mainly based in Classical Orders of Roman and Greek architecture
• Cornice materials may be wood, brick, metal or vinyl. Modern versions are usually not solid like historical cornices.
• Cornice trim may match to window & door trim, corners and siding.
• Retrofit of existing cornices must consider attic ventilation strategy and continuity of building envelope.