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Roof pitch is one of the most used terms in roofing. So what does the 7/12 in the example to the left mean? The 7 means that the roof rises 7" for every 12" it runs. The example to left shows 2 different ways to determine or calculate roof pitch, also called roof slope. Terminology used to describe roof pitch or slope, include 7/12, 7-12, 7 to 12,7 and 12, 7 on 12. |
| Measuring From The Top The measurements are taken from on top of the roof. Simply mark a level at 12", hold it perfectly level and measure from the roof surface to your 12" mark, this will give you the rise. Be careful with this method as a roof with many layers of shingles, or any type of roofing that is irregular can give you less than precise results. |
Measuring From The Bottom The measurements are taken from the bottom of the rafters, the procedure to calculate roof pitch is the same. This method tends to be more accurate because no layers of roofing are involved. To use this method there are 3 possible places to take your measurements. 1. The underside of a barge rafter on a gable end. 2. The underside of a rafter on a overhang at the bottom of the roof 3. The underside of a rafter in the attic. |
Alternative Roof Pitch Method*
*This method works only on a level field of view as close to 100' back as possible from structure and should not be used at an angle greater than 20 degrees. If you are not sure about your pitch, please consult a local contractor for help. Metalaire Lover will not be responsible for miscalculated pitch measurement
