1. What is Roof Pitch?

Roof pitch is a measure of the steepness or slope of a roof, expressed as the ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run. It is a critical factor in roof design, affecting drainage, material selection, and structural requirements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the pitch formula:

Where:

• \( Rise \) — Vertical height (feet)
• \( Run \) — Horizontal distance (feet)
• \( Pitch \) — Slope ratio (unitless)

Explanation: The pitch represents how many feet the roof rises for each foot of horizontal run. A pitch of 0.25 means the roof rises 0.25 feet for every 1 foot of run.

3. Importance of Pitch Calculation

Details: Accurate pitch calculation is essential for proper roof design, water drainage, material estimation, and ensuring structural integrity of buildings.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter rise and run values in feet. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical roof pitch range?
A: Residential roofs typically range from 4:12 (18.4°) to 12:12 (45°), with 4:12 to 9:12 being most common.

Q2: How is pitch different from slope?
A: Pitch is the ratio of rise to run (e.g., 4:12), while slope is typically expressed as a percentage or angle.

Q3: Why is roof pitch important?
A: Pitch affects water drainage, snow load capacity, material choices, attic space, and overall aesthetic appearance.

Q4: Can I convert pitch to degrees?
A: Yes, angle in degrees = arctan(rise/run). For example, a 6:12 pitch equals arctan(6/12) = 26.57°.

Q5: What's the minimum pitch for different roofing materials?
A: Asphalt shingles: 4:12, Metal roofing: 3:12, Built-up roofing: 1/4:12, Clay/concrete tiles: 4:12.