Roof Pitch Chart - Download a free PDF
Download a free Roof Pitch Reference Chart PDF with pitch ratios, roof angles, multipliers, and common roofing applications.
Use this chart as a quick reference to understand standard roof pitches, angles, and their common applications.
Whether you're planning a new roof, estimating materials, or simply trying to understand what your contractor is talking about, knowing your roof pitch is a great starting point. Our free Roof Pitch Reference Chart gives you everything you need in one clean, printable PDF — pitch ratios, degrees, multipliers, and what each slope is typically used for. Download it, save it, or print it out and keep it on the job site.
Who is this for?
This chart is useful for anyone working on or planning a roofing project:
- Homeowners getting quotes and wanting to understand the basics
- Roofers and contractors who need a quick reference on site
- Builders and estimators calculating roof surface area
- DIYers tackling a shed, garage, or extension roof
- Students and apprentices learning the trade
No experience required — the chart is designed to be simple and easy to read at a glance.
How to use the chart
Using the chart is straightforward. Here's how to get the most out of it:
- Find your pitch — locate your rise-to-run ratio in the first column (e.g. 6:12 means the roof rises 6 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal run).
- Check the angle — the chart converts each pitch into degrees so you can visualise how steep the slope actually is.
- Use the multiplier — multiply your flat (footprint) area by the pitch multiplier to get the true roof surface area. This is handy when ordering shingles or calculating underlayment.
- Read the category — each pitch is labelled Flat, Low, Moderate, Steep, or Very Steep so you can quickly match it to the right roofing material.
Not sure what pitch your roof is? Measure the rise over a 12-inch horizontal run using a level and a tape measure. That number is your pitch.
FAQs
What is a normal roof pitch for a house?
Most residential homes in the US, UK, and Canada have a pitch between 4:12 and 6:12. This range gives good water drainage, works with nearly all roofing materials, and is safe for roofers to work on without extra equipment. Anything below 3:12 is considered low-slope and needs special waterproofing; anything above 8:12 is considered steep.
What is the minimum pitch for asphalt shingles?
Most asphalt shingle manufacturers require a minimum pitch of 2:12 for their product to perform correctly. Below that, water doesn't drain fast enough and can work its way under the shingles. For pitches between 2:12 and 4:12, a double layer of underlayment is usually recommended as extra protection.
Is this PDF free to download?
Yes, completely free. Just click the download button below and save it to your device. No sign-up needed.