đ Roof Pitch Calculator
Find your roof pitch from rise/run measurements. Shows pitch as ratio, degrees, and percentage with walkability rating.
How to Use This Calculator
Choose your measurement method. Rise & Run is the most common â place a 12-inch level on the roof and measure the rise. If you know the rafter length from the attic, use the Rafter & Run method. For a quick estimate from the ground, use the Height & Width method with the visible roof height and building width.
Understanding Your Results
Pitch expressed as X/12 means the roof rises X inches for every 12 inches of horizontal run. The degree measurement is useful for cutting angles. The walkability rating helps assess safety â always use proper fall protection on steep roofs regardless of the rating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure roof pitch?
Place a level horizontally on your roof or in the attic against a rafter. Mark 12 inches along the level, then measure vertically from the end of the level to the roof surface. This vertical measurement is the rise, and the result is expressed as rise/12.
What is a normal roof pitch?
Most residential roofs have a pitch between 4/12 and 9/12. A 6/12 pitch (26.6°) is very common and provides a good balance of water shedding, attic space, and walkability.
What pitch is safe to walk on?
Pitches of 6/12 or less are generally considered walkable for experienced workers. Pitches of 7/12 to 9/12 are steep but walkable with proper footwear and caution. Pitches above 10/12 typically require roof jacks or harnesses.
How do I convert roof pitch to degrees?
Divide the rise by the run and take the arctangent (inverse tangent). For a 6/12 pitch: arctan(6/12) = 26.57°. Our calculator does this conversion automatically.