In a message dated 99-06-23 21:24:33 EDT, Ralph (?) wrote:

<< I don't see that a cornice is going to offer much beyond very localized
 protection for the upper part of the wall. >>

Cornices on flat roof, parapet-front buildings date back at least 150 years.
Why are they such durable design elements?  Did all the journeymen galvanized
iron shops c. 1900 just want to keep Pinheads in business 100 years later?
Although I have seen many "typical details" for cornices, I have never seen a
workman/designer's "typical justification" for such details.

Sign me, Rising Damp