Proper Roof Pitch For A Shed

Shed loft having a steeper pitched roof allows for more space in a shed loft.

Proper roof pitch for a 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. The minimum pitch for a roof is 1 4 12 which translates to 1 4 inch rise to 12 inches of run. The loft space would be much larger with a roof pitch of 45 degrees.

Basically the steeper the pitch the better it can shed snow and rain. As stated in the video speed squares have useful markings on them from 0 to 12. The best roof pitch for shed constructions depends on the actual and intended use for the building. Constructing a new shed roof at the desired pitch is as easy as knowing how to use a speed square.

If your roof pitch is greater than 3 your roof is considered pitched. 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. The roof pitch measures the steepness of your shed roof and typically takes values from 1 to 12. Therefore if your roof rises 4 inches over the course of 12 inches of horizontal run then your roof pitch is 4 12.

This slope works well for sheds that are fairly narrow like 4 to 6 feet but for sheds that are 8 or wider the shed roof becomes unsightly high. Also it should correspond to some specifics. 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.

Remember that pitch is calculated as the height or rise of a roof pitch over 12 inches of horizontal run. 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. Read more about roof pitch at wikipedia.