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Roof Pitch Calculator

Convert rise/run, x/12, degrees and percent. US units, change any unit beside its field.

Measurements

About this calculator

Convert any way of stating roof pitch into the others. US trades say "6 in 12" (6/12). This also gives the pitch factor for converting plan area to roof area.

How it’s calculated

Slope t = rise ÷ run. Degrees = atan(t). x/12 = t × 12. Percent = t × 100. Pitch factor = √(1 + t²). Hip/valley factor (per unit of common run) = √(2 + t²).

Worked example

With these inputs:

I know
Pitch as x/12
Rise per 12
6

the result is:

Pitch
6/12 = 26.57°
Degrees
26.57°
Pitch (x in 12)
6 in 12
Percent grade
50%
Ratio
1 : 2

Tips from the trade

  • To measure pitch, hold a level horizontally against the roof and measure 12" (or 1 m) along it. The vertical gap down to the roof is the rise.
  • From inside the loft, measure the rafter angle with a digital angle finder.

Common questions

What is a 4/12 pitch in degrees?

18.43°.

What is 35° as x/12?

About 8.4/12.

Results are estimates for planning and pricing. Check quantities against your drawings, the manufacturer’s data and local building codes before ordering.