You can draw a cornice return in just a few seconds with our in-app sketching tools!
Following these tips will provide you with more accurate roof measurements, estimates and material orders. Check out the steps below to learn how to DIY!
This article is specific to getting measurements for a hipped cornice return. If you'd like to see how to draw a shed cornice return, click here.
How to Draw a Hipped Cornice Return, Step-by-Step:
Before You Start - Cornice returns should be drawn last. Make sure that the main sections of the roof are sketched and that all facets are closed. Select the Facets tab to ensure that the facet the cornice return is under is shaded blue, as shown below:
Step 1: Switch to the Draw tab and draw two boxes with a line connecting the outermost corner to the innermost corner, using the Unlined line label.
Step 2: Then apply the exterior Eave and Hip line labels.
The exterior lines are running parallel with the ground and should always be labeled as Eaves.
Step 3: Next, apply the interior Step line label.
Since both sides of a hipped cornice return are running along the inside slope, they are always a Step.
Step 4: You'll need to adjust your connecting lines. We'll start by moving the connecting Eave lines to be in line with the facet above.
To adjust your line - hover over the point in the center where your Rake connects with the Eave. Your curser will turn from red to green.
- On a computer (Web App), right click with your mouse or two finger tap with your track pad and the curser will turn blue.
- On mobile (iOS or Android), hover over the point until the curser turns blue.
Step 5: Pick up the point where your Step and Eave lines meet farthest from the Valley, extending it inward 1 foot.
We recommend 1 foot, as it is the length of a typical overhang. You can adjust this in the app if a cornice return is deeper during your on site inspection.
Step 6: Pick up the point where your Eave and Step lines connect closest to the Valley. Drag it over to the point where the corner of the gable meets on the roof above the cornice return (Rake, Eave, and Valley in the image below).
Step 7: Pick up the point where your Step lines connect. Drag it just inside of the Valley along the top of the roof.
Step 8: Click on the Facets tab. You should see dark blue shading where each cornice return is located. This means you are accounting for the shingled area squares on the gabled section of the roof, as well as the shingle area for the cornice returns below. Be sure to apply your pitch values for accurate measurements.
If you have any issues with sketching a cornice return, we're happy to help! Please contact our Support Team or give us a call at 877-766-3762!