How Steep Is a 7 Pitch Roof?

Geometric Pitch

• In math terms, a roof's pitch is equal to a geometric slope that rises by degrees. The steepest roofs rarely exceed 45 degrees, which translates to a 12-12 pitch, or a roof that rises 12 inches for every 12 inches of roof length. A very low pitch is 2-12, or 9.46 degrees. A 7-12 roof pitch falls into the category of medium- to high-level of steepness, or 30.26 degrees.

Walkability

• It is considered unsafe to walk on a roof with a 7-12 pitch. The steepest roof that will allow roof-walking is a 5-12 pitch, which has a 22.62 degree angle. Anything steeper than this grade is considerable unwalkable.

Calculating a 7-12 Pitch

• If you are unsure about your roof pitch, you can measure the pitch with a tape measure, a 12-inch (1 foot) carpenter's level and a ladder. Using a ladder, climb to the edge of the roof so that you have at least 12 inches of roof length to work with. Stay on the ladder for safety. Hold the 12-inch carpenter's level horizontally so that one end touches the roof and the bubble is centered. The level should be parallel to the ground below. Using your other hand, measure from the closest end of the level (by your hand) to the surface of the roof, keeping the tape measure perpendicular to the carpenter's level. If you have 7-12 pitch roof, the tape measure should read 7 inches. You can also measure from an interior attic or second-floor room, when available.

Considerations

• High pitch roofs, such as a 7-12, are much better at shedding ice and snow. They can also save you money on expensive wind and ice shields, and home insurance claims for winter damage.