How To Find The Pitch Of A Roof With A Framing Square

For example a 12 12 roof pitch would have 11 1 16 12 pitch hips.

How to find the pitch of a roof with a framing square.

Pitch measurement method 1. The pitch is defined as the vertical distance a roof rises in each horizontal foot. Use a level against the underside of the rafter you re measuring to get the most accurate value. To calculate the required rafter length multiply the total run length half the building width plus the width that the roof is to overhang the house wall by this number 13 42.

In the united states a run of 12 inches 1 foot is used and pitch is measured as the rise of the roof over 12 inches. The most precise way to find the roof s slope is by measuring it from the underside. How to use a framing square and its etched on tables to figure out roof slope rafter lengths. Pitch of hips the pitch is based on a 12 run on the framing square.

Roof pitch is the measurement of a roof s vertical rise divided by its horizontal run. This article explains how to make quick use of a framing square and its imprinted data to get some basic roof measurement data like roof pitch or slope rafter lengths and end cuts. The hash marks with corresponding numbers between 1 and 30 refer to the roof s rise angle. If the slope rises 6 inches in each horizontal foot the pitch is referred to as 6 in 12 or a 6 12 pitch.

Access one of the rafters then take the measurement this way. Note the number on the common scale parallel with the 45 degree angle of the square. A carpenter s framing square includes some tables stamped right into the tool itself. It is often compared to slope but is not exactly the same.

On a ladder beside the roof place the level a foot or so up the roof hold it level and measure from the 12 inch mark on the level s bottom straight down to the roof. 8 inches and you have an 8 in 12 pitch. Locate the level s 12 inch mark. Directly below the 6 inch mark on the framing square read the required rafter length 13 42 per foot of run for a 6 inch rise 6 in 12 roof.