How To Determine Roof Pitch

The pitch of a roof is expressed as the distance a roof rises vertically over a 12-inch horizontal distance. So a roof that rises 10 inches vertically for every 12 inches horizontally has a 10/12 pitch.

Step 1
Hold a framing square up against the roofline as shown.

Step 2
Read the measurement on the vertical end.

Step 3
Remember “Rise over run”. The rise is the measure on the vertical leg; the run is the 12-inch measurement on the horizontal leg. So if the vertical measurement is 10 inches, the roof has a 10/12 pitch.

Step 4
Let us know the pitch of your roof. If your roof's pitch is steeper than 10 inches of rise per foot, you will have to include a base extension with your order.

If you would like more information on determining your roofs pitch or any questions you may have about cupolas, feel free to contact us.