How to Measure the Pitch of Your Roof

Measuring your roof’s pitch is essential for determining the right fit for roof-mounted structures like dormers, awnings, and decorative gables. Roof pitch refers to the slope of your roof and is usually expressed as a ratio, such as 6/12, which means the roof rises 6 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal distance.

Below are simple methods to measure your roof pitch, whether from the ground, inside your attic, or on the roof itself.

Understanding Roof Pitch

Roof pitch is written as a ratio of rise over run:

• The rise is the vertical increase in inches.
• The run is the horizontal distance over a 12-inch span.

For example, a 6/12 pitch means the roof rises 6 inches for every 12 inches of run.

Method 1: Measuring Roof Pitch from Inside the Attic

This is one of the safest ways to determine your roof pitch without climbing onto the roof.

What You Need:

• A level (at least 12 inches long)
• A tape measure

Steps:

1. Place the level against the bottom of a roof rafter.
2. Hold the level perfectly horizontal and mark 12 inches from the point where it touches the rafter.
3. From the 12-inch mark, measure the vertical distance from the level to the rafter.
4. The vertical measurement is the rise, while the run is always 12 inches.

Example:
If you measure 6 inches from the level to the rafter, your roof pitch is 6/12.

Method 2: Measuring Roof Pitch from the Roof

If you have safe access to your roof, you can measure the pitch directly.

What You Need:

• A level
• A tape measure

Steps:

1. Place one end of the level on the roof surface and hold it perfectly level.
2. Measure 12 inches from where the level touches the roof.
3. From this 12-inch mark, measure vertically down to the roof’s surface.
4. The vertical distance is the rise, with the run remaining 12 inches.

Method 3: Estimating Roof Pitch from the Ground

If you cannot access the roof or attic, you can estimate the pitch from the ground using a smartphone app or by comparing your roof’s slope to common pitch diagrams.

Steps:

1. Stand far enough away to view the slope of the roof clearly.
2. Use a roofing pitch app or a visual chart to compare your roof’s angle.
3. While less precise, this method can provide a general estimate.

Common Roof Pitches and Their Characteristics

Why Roof Pitch Matters

• Determines water runoff efficiency – Steeper roofs shed water and snow more effectively.
• Impacts material choice – Low-slope roofs often require different roofing materials than steep roofs.
• Essential for ordering custom structures – Knowing your pitch ensures a proper fit for roof-mounted installations.

If you need a precise measurement for ordering custom gable decorations, brackets, or awnings, taking accurate roof pitch measurements is crucial. For assistance, consult a professional or use a roof pitch calculator.