What is the term for the slope of a roof?

The term for the slope of a roof is known as pitch. Pitch specifically refers to the steepness or angle of the roof in relation to the horizontal distance, often expressed as a ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run. This concept is essential in construction and architecture because it impacts how water drains off the roof, the materials used, and overall structural integrity. Understanding roof pitch is crucial for ensuring proper drainage and maintaining the durability of roofing systems, which is especially relevant in areas with heavy rainfall or snowfall.

While elevation refers to the height of a structure or its position relative to sea level, angle generally denotes the measure of the inclination of a line or surface in relation to a flat surface. Gradient usually relates to the degree of slope but is more often used in contexts like road construction or land grading rather than specifically in roof terminology. Thus, pitch is the appropriate term for describing the specific characteristic of a roof’s slope.