How To Determine Roof Pitch With A Speed Square

Often you express roof pitch as the ratio between the rise and the run in the form of x 12.

How to determine roof pitch with a speed square.

A 12 12 pitch roof has a pitch angle of 45. Finding the pitch of a roof is simple with a speed square. Then place a torpedo level on the fat base of the rafter square and adjust the square until the level is level. Extend it upward so it is perpendicular to the level.

Use the torpedo level to make a plumb mark on the straightedge. The triangle shaped square was invented in 1925 by albert swanson to provide a quick accurate method for marking rafters. Leah s recommended tools for beginner diy ers. Roof pitch refers to the slope which the rafter creates.

Check your results with the omni roof pitch calculator. Because of its compact size it is frequently used as a saw guide when cutting framing members as well as a layout tool for quick 45 and 90 degree cuts. You can assess this in two ways either as the roof pitch angles which the rafters make with the horizontal or the proportion between the run and the rise of the roof. With a torpedo level and a speed square you can pretty accurately gauge the pitch of any roof with a gable end photo 1.

The pitch can also be measured if only a level mark can be made. Move the tape measure along the the roof until it hits the level at exactly the 12 inch mark. Place the pivot point against the shingles. Measure the vertical distance from roof to level.

To convert between american roofing ratios and pitch degrees follow these steps. Marvel at your mathematical. Measure the roof pitch with a speed square. Set the level on the edge of the speed square as shown below then place the heel of the speed square on a rafter or gable edge of the roof.

Read the pitch on the side of the rafter square. Hold the 0 mark of the tape measure against the roof. Measure with a speed square a speed square and level can be used to easily find the pitch of a roof. Place the straightedge on the shingles in a direction perpendicular to the gutter.