When planning a roof installation, you might need to consider the structure’s pitch or slope. It’s a fundamental factor that affects everything from the material you select to the amount of product you need. Here’s what you need to know before work begins.

Roof Pitch Calculation

Pitch is expressed in 12-inch increments. The term refers to the number of inches the slope inclines for every foot that it runs in a horizontal direction. Pitches are usually referred to as fractions; the first digit refers to the vertical increase, or height, and the second refers to the horizontal figure of 12 inches, or the length. So when a roof’s height increases by six inches per foot of horizontal material, its pitch is referred to as “6/12” or “6:12.”

Types of Roof Pitch

Residential roofing systems can be low, medium, or high, but some homes may feature a combination of these slopes. A low pitch is typically measured between 2/12 and 4/12, while medium slopes go up to 9/12. Anything above this is considered a high pitch.

Many older homes have very sharply inclined, steep roofs, while more contemporary styles may have flatter roofing systems that fall on the low end of the spectrum. The majority of residences have medium pitches.

Importance of Pitch

Pitch is critical to the integrity of your roof installation project because it allows your contractor to identify the amount of material that’s needed to complete the job. The slope may also determine the type of material that’s suitable for your roofing system.

Asphalt shingles are among the most common used on medium-pitched roofs—along with clay and cement tiles. Materials such as slate shingles and wood, however, are more prone to leaking and damage. It’s better to install them on roofs with higher pitches to minimize the material’s exposure to water.

Beyond material choice, however, the steepness plays a role in your home’s overall aesthetics, so be sure to take your desired style into consideration.

When it’s time to replace your roof, turn to the professionals at AAA Affordable Roofing in Charlotte, NC. Serving the community since 1972, the area’s leading roofers offer a variety of residential and commercial services. Count on them for everything from complete roof installation to leak repairs. Visit them online for more information on their services or call (704) 564-5597 to request a quote today.