The Importance of Roof Pitch

The roof pitch is the exact ratio and angle of a roof and plays a very important role in your new home construction.

A roof pitch is a measuring system used to determine the steepness of the roof. Builders in new home construction, typically divide the vertical rise of the pitch by the slope, angle or slant. The ratio of the roof is divided by two numbers, the numerator and the denominator. The numerator is the first number, also the height of the roof. The denominator is the second number, also the horizontal length of the roof.

Besides the style and aesthetics, the pitch can determine how long it will take for debris and water to get off the roof. When working on new home construction, builders also have to consider the walkability and the type of materials used.

Since not every material can be used for any size of a roof, you’ll use different materials for different slopes. Standard sizes and materials for new home construction are:

  • Asphalt shingles: 4/12 to 20/12
  • Rubber membrane: .25/12 to 3/12
  • Built-Up (BUR): .25/12 to 3/12
  • Standing-seam metal: .25/12 to 19/12
  • Wood and slate shingles: 5/12 to 12/12

If you are thinking about a new home construction project, just remember the pitch determines the steepness of the roof of your new home and not every material can be used for every roof pitch. Some materials work better on different types of roof pitches than others.

If you have questions about the importance of a roof pitch in your new home construction or what materials can be used, call Down Under Roofing, your local roofing company in Kansas City. Our team at Down Under Roofing is dedicated to providing great results. We treat you with respect by offering honest and fair pricing that will fit most budgets. Contact our team today to see how we can help you with your roofing needs.

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