When you’re building a new home, one of the many roofing decisions you have to make is your roof’s pitch. Fully understanding roof pitch and its importance can help you make the right decision for your home and its needs. Today, our team at Attyx is going to go over what roof pitch is, how it’s measured, and why it’s important.
Understanding Roof Pitch
What is Roof Pitch?
In short, roof pitch is the slope of your roof. Roofs that are steep have a higher pitch. Flatter roofs like those often found on more modern buildings have a lower pitch. Your roof’s pitch plays a big role in how your roof looks and functions.
How is Roof Pitch Measured?
Roof pitch is measured using slope. You can calculate the slope using a “rise over run” formula. Roof pitch measurements are often written as how much a roof rises over the span of 12 inches specifically. To find this, use a level and a tape measure. Place the level horizontally on the roof surface and measure the vertical distance from the level to the roof surface at a 12-inch interval. This distance is the rise, which you then compare to the horizontal run (12 inches) to get the pitch ratio. You should have an answer that looks something like 3/12 or 12/12. The bigger the first number is, the steeper your roof’s pitch is.
The Importance of Roof Pitch
Matching Roof Pitch to Regional Weather
Not all regional weather is created equal. When you’re choosing your roof’s pitch, you should take into account the weather conditions you face where you live. In areas with heavy snowfall, a steep pitch helps prevent snow from piling up and collapsing your roof. On the other hand, in areas with high winds, a low pitch can provide better resistance to the wind.
Picking a Roof Pitch That Works With Your Roofing Material
To understand roof pitch, you need to understand that certain roofing materials perform better at specific pitches. Making sure your roof pitch matches the recommended pitch for your chosen roofing material helps your roof function better and last longer. For instance, asphalt shingles work well on moderately pitched roofs, while materials like slate or tile are suited for steeper pitches.
Following Roof Pitch Codes & Regulations
Before you get too far into considering various roof designs, look into local building codes and regulations. Many places have building codes that specify minimum and maximum roof pitches. Those roof pitch parameters specified in these building codes tend to be the pitches best suited for your area’s climate.
Maintenance Difficulty
The pitch of your roof impacts how easy it is to maintain. Take maintenance difficulty into consideration when you’re selecting your roof’s pitch. Steeper roofs can require more specialized equipment and expertise to clean and repair. Lower-pitched roofs can be easier and safer to work on.
Consult with Roof Pitch Experts
Understanding roof pitch is critical when it comes to making an informed decision about your new roof. Whether you’re building a new home or replacing an old roof, choosing the right pitch can improve your roof’s performance, durability, and ease of maintenance. Luckily, you don’t have to make your roofing decisions alone. If you live in New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Hawaii, Virginia, or California, you can consult with the roofing experts at Attyx about your roof’s pitch. Once you’ve settled on the best roof pitch for your home, our skilled roofers will install your new roof. Reach out today.
