Roof slope is considered the primary factor in roof design. The slope of a roof impacts the interior size of a building, the drainage, the style, the material, and the cost of your roof.
The slope of a roof is often referred to as the pitch. The slope, or pitch, of the roof is determined by the vertical rise. A roof deck that rises 8 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal run would have an 8-in-12 or 8/12 pitch.
Steep sloped roofs are generally less expensive, more visually pleasing and tend to last longer as well. They can, however, raise the cost of framing the roof deck and constructing other building elements such as chimneys, vents, and mechanical equipment. Many find that it is worth it, though, because the roofing material is estimated to last up to 50% longer and will require less maintenance in the long run.
A roof with a 4/12 pitch or higher will support products such as shingles, slate, or tiles. However, these systems cannot be used on low-slope roofs. Likewise, a single-ply membrane or a built-up roof will probably not be appropriate for most steep-slope roofs.
Commonwealth Roofing has earned the title “The Roofers” and will give you good advice and service with the repair or replacement of steep slope roofs.
