Proper Roof Pitch For A Shed

There are advantages and disadvantages to having a steep pitch versus a shallow or low pitch the most obvious of which is the roof s ability to shed or withstand heavy snow rain or wind.

Proper roof pitch for a shed.

Basically the steeper the pitch the better it can shed snow and rain. The best roof pitch for shed constructions depends on the actual and intended use for the building. In order to adhere to standardized building codes and ensure adequate runoff your shed s roof must have a pitch of at least 3 12 read as three in twelve. Therefore if your roof rises 4 inches over the course of 12 inches of horizontal run then your roof pitch is 4 12.

This means that for every 12 inches of horizontal distance across the shed the roof will rise 4 inches. However you can only use this pitch with built up roofing or specialized synthetic roofing. The minimum pitch for a roof is 1 4 12 which translates to 1 4 inch rise to 12 inches of run. Also it should correspond to some specifics.

Constructing a new shed roof at the desired pitch is as easy as knowing how to use a speed square. The term pitch refers to the slope of the roof. Asphalt shingles typically have a minimum slope rating of 4 in 12. Read more about roof pitch at wikipedia.

The loft space would be much larger with a roof pitch of 45 degrees. Beyond that you re free to choose whatever slope best fits your plans for your shed. This image shows a relatively shallow roof pitch of 15 degrees. For example for a shed dormer roof pitch it should be calculated according to the overall design of the building to maximize its function such as increasing usable floor space and increasing headroom.

Remember that pitch is calculated as the height or rise of a roof pitch over 12 inches of horizontal run. Shed loft having a steeper pitched roof allows for more space in a shed loft. If your roof pitch is greater than 3 your roof is considered pitched.