Roof Pitch Calculator

- May 11, 2025
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Calculate roof pitch, angle, and related measurements for roofing projects and construction. Roof pitch is typically expressed as X:12 or X/12, where X is the vertical rise in inches per 12 inches of horizontal run.

Input Method

Roof Pitch

:12

Roof Dimensions (Optional)

Display Options

About Roof Pitch and Calculations

Roof pitch is a measure of the steepness of a roof, commonly expressed as a ratio of the vertical rise to the horizontal run, where the run is typically set to 12 inches. For example, a 6:12 pitch means the roof rises 6 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal distance.

Key Conversion Formulas
  • Angle from Pitch: Angle (degrees) = tan-1(Pitch/12) × (180/π)
  • Pitch from Angle: Pitch = 12 × tan(Angle × (π/180))
  • Slope (%): Slope = (Pitch/12) × 100
  • Rafter Length per foot of run: Rafter Length = √(12² + Pitch²)
Common Roof Pitches
  • 1:12 to 3:12 - Low slope roofs, often used for commercial buildings
  • 4:12 to 9:12 - Medium slope roofs, common for residential homes
  • 10:12 to 12:12 - Steep roofs, often found in snow-prone areas or traditional architecture
  • 12:12 and above - Very steep roofs, typical in Tudor or Gothic styles

Understanding Roof Pitch

Roof pitch measures how steep a roof is. It tells you how much the roof rises for every 12 inches of horizontal distance. For example, a roof with a pitch of 6:12 rises 6 inches for every 12 inches along the base. Knowing the pitch is essential for roofing projects, as it affects drainage, materials used, and aesthetics.

Why Use a Roof Pitch Calculator?

The Roof Pitch Calculator helps you quickly determine essential angles and measurements for your roofing project. It's particularly useful for builders, architects, and DIY enthusiasts. By inputting different values, you can easily switch between pitch, angle, and rise/run to find the information you need. This tool is designed to make your calculations simpler and more accurate.

Input Methods for Flexibility

Our calculator provides several input methods to cater to your preferences. You can choose from:

  • Pitch (X:12): Enter the vertical rise per 12 inches.
  • Angle (Degrees): Input the angle of the roof directly.
  • Rise and Run: Specify both the rise and run for precise calculations.

Optional Roof Dimensions

For a more detailed analysis, you can also enter optional roof dimensions like width and length. This data enables the calculator to provide additional insights, such as the total roof surface area and material needed. You can specify these measurements in feet, inches, or metres, making it adaptable to your project's requirements.

Display Options for Customisation

Customising your output is easy with our display options. You can select the number of decimal places for your results, ensuring the precision you need. Additionally, you can choose to view a visual representation of your roof, helping you better understand the angles and dimensions involved in your project.

Results You Can Trust

Once you input your data, the calculator provides quick results, including:

  • Roof Pitch: The rise per 12 inches of run.
  • Roof Angle: The angle in degrees.
  • Slope: The percentage of rise/run.
  • Rafter Length: Length per 12 inches of run.

Application in Real Roofing Projects

Understanding roof pitch is vital for various types of roofing. Different pitches suit different materials and styles:

  • Low Slope: Ideal for metal and built-up roofing.
  • Medium Slope: Commonly used for asphalt shingles and tiles.
  • Steep Slope: Best for slate and clay tiles.

Learn More About Roof Pitch

The Roof Pitch Calculator not only gives you useful measurements but also helps you learn more about roof pitches. You'll discover how pitch affects roof performance, choices in materials, and common applications. Whether you're a professional or a DIYer, this tool is a valuable asset for your roofing projects.