How to Measure Your Roof Pitch Safely (Without Getting on a Ladder)

Whether you are estimating the cost of a new roof, installing solar panels, or calculating shingles, knowing your "Roof Pitch" is the first step. But climbing onto a roof with a tape measure is dangerous and often unnecessary. In this guide, we’ll show you how to find your roof slope in seconds.

1. What is Roof Pitch? Roof pitch is the steepness of your roof, expressed as a ratio of the "rise" (vertical height) over the "run" (horizontal length). For example, a 4/12 pitch means the roof rises 4 inches for every 12 inches it goes inward.

2. The Easy Indoor Method (Attic) If you have access to your attic, you can measure the pitch from the safety of your rafters:

• Place a level against the underside of a rafter.

• Measure 12 inches horizontally along the level.

• Measure the vertical distance from the 12-inch mark up to the rafter.

• That vertical number is your "Rise."

3. The Modern Method: Use an Online Tool Why do the math yourself? If you have your measurements, the fastest way to get an accurate result is to use a dedicated tool.

 Save time and avoid math errors by using our Free Roof Pitch Calculator. Simply plug in your rise and run to get your pitch, angle, and grade instantly.

Conclusion: Knowing your pitch helps you buy the right amount of materials and ensures your roof meets local building codes. Bookmark our calculator for your next home improvement project!