Roof Pitch Calculator

Are you planning a roofing project or simply curious about your home’s roof angle? Our roof pitch calculator is here to help! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about roof pitch, how to measure it, and how to use our free online tool for accurate calculations.

What is Roof Pitch?

Roof pitch, also known as roof slope, is the measurement of a roof’s steepness. It’s typically expressed as a ratio of the vertical rise to the horizontal run, usually over 12 inches. For example, a 6/12 pitch means the roof rises 6 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal distance.

Why is Roof Pitch Important?

Understanding your roof’s pitch is crucial for several reasons:

Proper water drainage
Material selection for roofing
Installation techniques
Building code compliance
Energy efficiency considerations

How to Use Our Roof Pitch Calculator

Our user-friendly calculator makes it easy to determine your roof’s pitch. Here’s how to use it:

Measure the rise (vertical height) of your roof over a 12-inch run
Enter the rise measurement in inches
Click “Calculate”
The calculator will provide you with the pitch ratio, angle in degrees, and slope percentage

Manual Roof Pitch Measurement

If you prefer to measure manually, follow these steps:

Place a level against the underside of a roof rafter
Measure 12 inches along the level from the roof
Measure the vertical distance from the 12-inch mark to the rafter
This vertical measurement is your roof’s rise over a 12-inch run

Understanding Roof Pitch Ratios

Here’s a quick guide to common roof pitch ratios:

Pitch Ratio	Angle (Degrees)	Slope (%)
1/12	4.76°	8.33%
3/12	14.04°	25%
6/12	26.57°	50%
12/12	45°	100%

Roof Pitch and Roofing Materials

Different roof pitches are suitable for various roofing materials:

Low slope (1/12 to 3/12): Built-up roofing, modified bitumen
Medium slope (4/12 to 9/12): Asphalt shingles, metal roofing, slate
Steep slope (10/12 and up): Clay tiles, wood shakes

Benefits of Knowing Your Roof Pitch

Accurate material estimates for repairs or replacements
Proper selection of roofing materials
Informed decisions on gutter systems
Better understanding of your home’s energy efficiency
Compliance with local building codes

Ready to Calculate Your Roof Pitch?

Now that you understand the importance of roof pitch and how to measure it, why not give our calculator a try? It’s free, easy to use, and provides instant results. Whether you’re planning a roofing project or just curious about your home’s architecture, our roof pitch calculator is here to help. Start calculating now and take the first step towards better understanding your roof!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered a low pitch roof?

A roof with a pitch below 3/12 is generally considered low pitch.

Can I walk on my roof to measure the pitch?

It's not recommended for safety reasons. Use our calculator or measure from inside the attic.

How does roof pitch affect installation costs?

Steeper pitches often result in higher installation costs due to increased labor and safety requirements.

Is a higher pitch better for snow regions?

Yes, steeper roofs shed snow more easily, reducing the risk of collapse.

Can I change my roof's pitch?

While possible, changing roof pitch is a major structural alteration requiring professional expertise and often building permits.

We’ve gathered calculators that will assist you with various tasks related to the current topic.

Roof Pitch Calculator