Metal Roofing Slope Considerations: What You Need to Know
So, you’re thinking about getting a new metal roof, and you checked out our Product Finder but it’s asking you for your “Minimum Slope”? Not to worry, today we will discuss Metal Roof Slope, what it is and why it plays a part in the installation of your metal roofing system.
What is Slope?
In good old grade school math, the slope of a line is a measure of its steepness. Mathematically, slope is calculated as “rise over run” (change in y divided by change in x). Basically put, slope tells us how steep something is, which in context to our products is your roof.
It is important to know the slope of your roof as you will need that information to determine your options and design the metal roof of your dreams.
The slope of your roof is very important, in fact it’s considered the primary factor in roof design. The slope can also determine what kind of roofing materials you can or should use on a particular design. Our products’ recommended slopes are defined to ensure effective rainwater removal while helping the roof panel joints above the water line and remain as watertight as possible. Also be advised of any minimum slope requirements that may exists with your building codes.
To speak generally, the steeper the roof, the greater the cost. Keep in mind material, installers fees and other aspects can greatly affect the cost of a metal roofing project.
Low-slope roofs tend to cost around 10% more than flat-roof but steep-slope roofs can run you as much as 20-30% more. If you are seeking an especially dramatic slope or specialty design, expect to pay even more. It is always recommended that you look around and get several estimates from reputable installers and dealers before making a significant investment such as a metal roof. Ask questions, gather info and you can always reach out to ASC Building Products with any questions you may have about our products or the design of your roof. As a trusted partner, we are committed to offering solutions and educating customers.
“The term ‘pitch’ and ‘slope’ are often used interchangeably, which is incorrect. They do not mean the same thing. And slope provides more valuable information than pitch,”, clarifies this article by NACHI. “Slope is the ratio measured in inches per foot. Because slope affects how water is shed from a roof surface.” Overall, slope provides you with more information than pitch, hence it’s the measurement we focus on.
Finding slope is a rather straight forward and easy thing you can do yourself. Simply hold a measuring tape or ruler straight out for a one-foot section and measure straight up to find the rise of that area. There are also a variety of online calculators such as this one here that allow you to easily estimate your roof’s slope, pitch and other valuable measurements.
Metal Roof Slope Conclusion
In summary, finding the slope of your roof is quick, easy and provides you with important measurements to aid you in designing your metal roof system. Not all products are appropriate for all roof slopes, so it is important to address this consideration early in the planning process. To help you with your next step, check out our free Online Visualizer, or our Product Finder to match you with the best possible metal roof.
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