Step 1: Determine the Roof’s Pitch
The pitch of the roof refers to its steepness. It is measured by the number of inches the roof rises vertically for every 12 inches it extends horizontally. Most roofs have a pitch between 4/12 and 9/12. To determine the pitch, use a ladder to climb up to the roof, and hold a level against the roofline. Measure the height from the roof surface to the level, and divide this number by 12. This will give you the pitch.
Step 2: Measure the Roof’s Length and Width
The next step is to measure the length and width of the roof. Use a measuring tape to measure the overall length and width of the roof from the ground. Be sure to measure the length of each slope separately. If the roof is irregularly shaped, you can divide it into smaller sections and measure each section separately. Write down these measurements in feet and inches.
Step 3: Determine the Square Footage
To determine the square footage of the roof, multiply the length by the width of each section to get the area of each section. Then, add the areas of all the sections together. This will give you the total square footage of the roof.
Step 4: Calculate the Roof’s Pitch Factor
The pitch factor is a number that helps you calculate how much extra material you will need for a steeply pitched roof. To calculate the pitch factor, use the following chart:
Roof Pitch (in 12-inch measurement) Pitch Factor
0/12 – 3/12 1.15
4/12 – 5/12 1.20
6/12 – 7/12 1.25
8/12 and up 1.30
For example, if your roof has a pitch of 7/12, your pitch factor would be 1.25.
Step 5: Calculate the Material Needed
To determine how much material you need, multiply the square footage of the roof by the pitch factor. This will give you the total amount of material needed for your roof. For example, if your roof is 1,000 square feet and has a pitch factor of 1.25, you would need 1,250 square feet of material.
Step 6: Double-Check Your Measurements
Before ordering your materials, double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy. Re-measure the length and width of the roof, and calculate the square footage and pitch factor again.
Final Thoughts
Measuring a roof is an essential step in any roofing project. Accurate measurements will help you determine the amount of materials you need, estimate the cost of your project, and ensure that your new roof fits perfectly. By following these steps, you can confidently measure your roof and begin your roofing project with ease.