How is roof pitch typically expressed?

Roof pitch is typically expressed as a fraction of rise to run because this method provides a clear and straightforward way to describe the slope of the roof. Specifically, it indicates how many units the roof rises vertically for every 12 units it runs horizontally. For example, a pitch of 6:12 means that the roof rises 6 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal distance. This fraction format is widely used in the construction and roofing industries because it easily conveys the steepness of the roof, which is critical for water drainage, material selection, and architectural design considerations.

Expressing pitch as an angle in degrees can be useful in certain contexts but does not provide the same intuitive understanding of the rise compared to the fraction method. A percentage of slope can also describe pitch, but it may not be as commonly used in everyday roofing practices. Total height measure is not a standard way to express pitch, as it does not convey the ratio between rise and run necessary to assess the slope accurately. Thus, the rise-to-run fraction is the most practical and commonly accepted method for expressing roof pitch.