The pitch of a roof refers to the steepness or slope of the roof surface. It is usually expressed as a ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run. For example, a roof with a 6:12 pitch means it rises 6 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal run. Roof pitch is one of the factors that determine the level of difficulty and potential danger when working on a roof.
The danger level of a roof increases as the pitch gets steeper. Generally, any roof with a pitch greater than 7:12 (7 inches of vertical rise for every 12 inches of horizontal run) is considered a steep roof and can be dangerous to work on, especially for those without proper training and safety equipment.
Here's a breakdown of roof pitch categories and their corresponding risk levels:
Low-pitch roofs: Roofs with pitches below 4:12 are considered low-pitch roofs. They are easier and safer to work on, making them more accessible for maintenance and repairs.
Moderate-pitch roofs: Roofs with pitches between 4:12 and 7:12 fall into the moderate-pitch category. While they are generally safe to work on for experienced roofers, caution is still required, and safety measures should be followed.
Steep-pitch roofs: Roofs with pitches steeper than 7:12 are classified as steep-pitch roofs. Working on these roofs can be very dangerous, even for professionals, and should be approached with extreme caution. Safety harnesses, fall protection systems, and other safety equipment are essential when working on steep roofs.
Very steep-pitch roofs: Roofs with pitches exceeding 9:12 or 10:12 are considered very steep-pitch roofs. Working on these roofs is highly hazardous and should only be attempted by experienced professionals with appropriate safety measures in place.
Regardless of the roof pitch, it is crucial to prioritize safety when working at heights. If you need to perform maintenance or repairs on your roof and are not experienced in such work, it is best to hire a licensed and insured roofing professional with the expertise and equipment to handle the job safely. Additionally, consider local building codes and safety regulations when planning any work on your roof.