Eave/Roofline replacement - Victorian House

Hey all. Hope you're well. I'm planning on removing the aluminium cladding on the outside of my Victorian house and stripping/painting the weatherboards underneath.

After looking at my eaves/roofline some of the wood is rotten so I'm going to replace the whole thing and decorate with eave brackets/gables.

Without sounding stupid, what's the "official" name for the type of wood which will sit underneath the eaves? Should it be a particular type? Do I need to consider weatherproofing the entire thing, e.g. sealing? Picture enclosed - the top arrow indicates the bit I want to replace.

Finally, I guess a decent ladder length is required, will my verandah roof hold my weight? ;)

Thanks !

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