1. What is Roof Pitch?

Roof pitch is the steepness of a roof expressed as a ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run, in degrees, or as a standard roof pitch (e.g., 4:12). It's a crucial factor in roof design, affecting materials, drainage, and aesthetics.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses these formulas:

Where:

• \( Rise \) — Vertical height (in feet, meters, etc.)
• \( Run \) — Horizontal distance (in same units as rise)

3. Importance of Roof Pitch

Details: Roof pitch affects water drainage, snow load capacity, material choices, and installation methods. Steeper pitches are better for heavy rain/snow areas, while lower pitches are more common in dry climates.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure the vertical rise and horizontal run of your roof section. Enter both values in the same units (feet recommended). The calculator will provide pitch as a ratio, in degrees, and as a standard roof pitch.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between pitch and slope?
A: Pitch is the ratio of rise to run (e.g., 4:12), while slope is the ratio of rise to span (total width, e.g., 4:24 for the same roof).

Q2: What is a common roof pitch?
A: Conventional roofs are typically 4:12 to 9:12. Low-slope roofs are 2:12 to 4:12, while steep roofs are 9:12 and above.

Q3: How does pitch affect roofing materials?
A: Some materials (like slate or tile) require steeper pitches for proper water shedding, while others (like built-up roofing) work better on low slopes.

Q4: Can I measure pitch without climbing on the roof?
A: Yes, you can measure 12 inches horizontally from the roof edge, then measure vertically to the roof surface to get the rise for a standard pitch measurement.

Q5: What's the minimum pitch for water drainage?
A: Generally 1/4:12 (0.25:12) is the absolute minimum for proper drainage, though 1:12 or steeper is recommended.