What is your roof slope?
If we are being honest, your roof is probably the last thing that comes to your mind if you the average homeowner, well at least on the surface. Every homeowner knows that maintenance plays a critical part in their home’s upkeep, but if the roof is already overlooked, chances are you probably don’t know a whole lot about your home’s roof slope.
If that describes you, all good, today, we got you covered. Today, we will give you the rundown of what you need to know about your home’s roof slope. Let’s go!
*Note: You most likely will never have to worry about your roof’s slope/pitch. However, if you are reading this article perhaps you have a question about yours. In that case, keep reading:
What is a roof slope (roof pitch)?
The slope of a roof (pitch) is that steepness or incline of a roof that is determined by “rise over run,” the roof’s vertical rise in inches for every twelve inches of horizontal measurement, also called the run. Just to break it down by measuring roof slope, a roof with four inches of rise with twelve inches of horizontal distance would have a 4/12 slope.
What makes a roof’s slope special is its proclivity to help defend your home against the elements over time and avoid moisture build-up and pooling. Its roof design makes it possible for water to run off easily. Also, your roof pitch will determine the type of roofing materials that can be used on your home. A ton of significance!
Note: Roof pitch and roof slope have been used interchangeably in modern terminology, although with a slight difference as roof, pitch focused on the rise over the span and not “run” like in a roof slope measurement. Span = outside of one wall’s top plate to the other.
What is a standard slope of a roof?
When it comes to the standard pitches, you are looking at somewhere between a 4/12 and 9/12 slope. Low-slope roofing has slopes between a 2-4 rise run, and steep-slope roofing, on the other hand, has slopes between a 9-20+ rise run. Most roof replacement specialists will tell you if your slope is off!
Common Roof Slopes’ Roofing Materials – Flat Roof vs. Sloping Roofs
Roofing Materials for Flat roofs
When it comes to flat roofs, are cost-effective and easy to install, but unfortunately, they are prone to leaks and water pooing, which thus causes special needs when it comes to roofing material.
Standing seam metal roofing is key as its metal roof panels work perfectly in favor of flat roofs due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Others include, but are not limited to:
- PVC membrane roofing
- TPO membrane roofing
- EPDM membrane roofing
Roofing Materials for Sloping Roofs
When it comes to roofing materials for sloping roofs, the options on the marketplace are much more plentiful and can be easily selected and customized to your home’s roof; however, that is not to forget the extra need for expertise and capital for installation.
The most common roofing materials include but are not limited to:
- Asphalt Shingles
- Wood shingles
- Slate shingles
- Solar panels
- Metal roofing
If you have a question on whether a specific material will work on your roof, feel free to reach out, and we will be more than welcome to provide guidance.
Note: Steep slope roofing material requires alternating fabric layers for additional protection prior to the installation of primary roof coverings.
Asphalt shingles
One of the most common roofing materials is no doubt, asphalt shingles. Their design to shed water make them a formidable force for any slope roofing system; therefore, keep in mind they should only be used for roof slopes 2/12 and greater. Regarding low-slope roofs, getting professional consultation for asphalt shingles is highly recommended.
How much does it cost for slope roofing?
The cost of changing a roof’s slope can vary due to several factors, such as the valuation of labor, size and surface area of your roof, and more!
However, on average, for a new roof slope, you are looking at anywhere between $15K to $20K in total.
Due to the complexity of your roofing system, it is advised to call a licensed professional who can provide valuable insight and expertise on steps moving forward.
What’s the Verdict?
Roof slope is not the most acknowledged part of your roofing system, but it can’t be debated that it is crucial. While it may have brought you memories back in geometry, it pays dividends to have a general knowledge of its measurements and impact on your roof’s ability to function.
If you have any questions about your roof’s slope or roofing shingles and want to check in with a professional, feel free to reach out, and we will be more than welcome to assist!
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