Roofing Terminology

Roofing terminology can be confusing when it’s not a part of daily conversations. When it comes to roof replacement we are here to help. This roofing glossary can be a handy reference as you plan your new roof.

Roofing Terminology 1

Roof Pitch or Roof Slope

Slope and pitch are a measure of the steepness of a roof.

1. Slope = A ratio of a roof’s rise to a roof’s horizontal run.

2. Pitch = A ratio of a roof’s rise to a roof’s span.

How to find a roof’s slope using the drawing: Slope = Rise (inches) ÷ Run (in feet)

1. Determine the rise in inches… 5′ x 12″ = 60″ of rise.

2. Determine run in feet… Run = 1/2 of span: 20′ ÷ 2 = 10′

3. Divide rise by run… 60 ÷ 10 = 6

4. This is your slope 6:12.

5. Or simply… 5′ rise/10′ run = 6:12 slope