How to Figure Out the Pitch of a Roof: A Roofer's Guide

Admin April 4, 2023

As a roofer, one of the most important things you need to know is the pitch of a roof. The pitch, or slope, of a roof is the angle at which it rises from the horizontal plane. Knowing the pitch of a roof is crucial for determining the amount of materials needed for a job, as well as for ensuring proper drainage and overall stability of the roof. In this post, we'll go over some methods for figuring out the pitch of a roof.

how do you figure out the pitch of a roof

Method 1: Use a Pitch Gauge

A pitch gauge is a simple tool that can be used to measure the pitch of a roof. To use a pitch gauge, hold the gauge level against the roof and adjust the gauge until the bubble in the level is centered. Once the bubble is centered, read the pitch angle off the gauge. Pitch gauges are inexpensive and easy to use, making them a popular choice among roofers.

Method 2: Measure the Rise and Run

Another way to determine the pitch of a roof is to measure the rise and run of the roof. The rise is the vertical distance between the top of the roof and the bottom of the roof, while the run is the horizontal distance from one end of the roof to the other. To measure the rise and run, you'll need a measuring tape and a ladder. Once you have both, climb up to the top of the roof and measure the rise and run. Then, divide the rise by the run to get the pitch of the roof.

Method 3: Estimate the Pitch

If you don't have a pitch gauge or a measuring tape, you can estimate the pitch of a roof by using the "12/12 rule." The 12/12 rule states that for every 12 inches of horizontal run, the roof rises 12 inches vertically. This means that a roof with a 12/12 pitch would have a 45-degree angle. To estimate the pitch of a roof using this rule, simply measure the distance between two points on the roof that are 12 inches apart and note the vertical rise between those two points. If the rise is 12 inches, the roof has a 12/12 pitch.

Why Knowing the Pitch of a Roof is Important

Now that you know how to figure out the pitch of a roof, let's discuss why it's so important. The pitch of a roof determines how much weight it can support, as well as how much water it can handle. If a roof has too low of a pitch, it may not be able to handle heavy rainfall or snow, which can lead to leaks and damage. On the other hand, a roof with too high of a pitch may require extra support to prevent it from collapsing under its own weight. By knowing the pitch of a roof, you can ensure that it's able to handle the elements and will last for years to come.

In conclusion, as a roofer, it's essential to know how to figure out the pitch of a roof. Whether you use a pitch gauge, measure the rise and run, or estimate the pitch, having this information is crucial for ensuring that the roof is stable and can handle the elements. By taking the time to figure out the pitch of a roof, you'll be able to provide your clients with high-quality roofing services that will keep their homes safe and dry for years to come.