The roof slope refers to the measurement of your system’s steepness. It is an important calculation that determines the roofing material appropriate for your home. In addition to its aesthetic contribution, it helps identify how your roof will function throughout the years and how quickly water and debris will run off.
Howard Roofing explains further:
Introduction to Roof Pitch
Roof pitch is expressed as the number of inches of rise your roof has for every 12 inches (one foot) of run. Pitch ranges vary among roofers and manufacturers, but generally:
Steep slope has a roof pitch that’s over 9/12, sometimes reaching a 45-degree angle at 12/12.
Conventional is in the 4/12 to 9/12 range. This is a widely used measurement on residential homes.
Low slope is in the 2/12 to 4/12 range.
Flat is usually in the ½:12 to 2/12 range and is commonly used on commercial properties. No roof is truly flat, however, as the slight slope is required for drainage.
The Importance of Roof Slope When Choosing a Roofing Material
You should always consider the roof pitch when tackling a replacement project. Certain materials can only shed moisture quickly when they’re installed on steeper roofs. These include wood-shake and asphalt-shingle roofs. Other materials, on the other hand, perform better at resisting foot traffic and chemical exposure.
Your roof slope must support the weight of your roofing materials to ensure superior performance and durability. There are times when structural modifications are required to prevent unnecessary strain on your home. Your choices can be narrowed down by the following:
- Steep slope. Homes located in areas with large amounts of rain and snow greatly benefit from steep slope roofs. Lighter roofing materials like shingles and metal are best suited for this.
- Conventional slope. This pitch is favored by most homeowners as it is the better choice for gorgeous roofing materials like tile, slate and asphalt shingles. This is also recommended for shedding moderate amounts of rainwater runoff.
- Flat and low slope. Single-ply roofing systems like EPDM, TPO, and PVC work well for low and flat roofs. There is a better emphasis on protection from pooling water, reduced solar heat absorption, and cost-effective roof repair.
When it’s time to replace your roof, look no farther than Howard Roofing. We have the proper skills, knowledge and tools to provide you only with the best results. To learn more about roof pitch, contact us now at (636) 296-1057. You can also ask for a free estimate. We serve Belleville and surrounding areas in IL.