Your roof provides shelter and protection. It gives your house curb appeal and adds insulation, but have you ever thought about how the slope affects your home? The slope refers to the angle of your roof. The slope, sometimes referred to as the pitch, is determined by the rise over run ratio. The slope of your roof can be measured by the rise in inches for every 12 inches of the horizontal run. A roof that has a 3 over 12 ratio is usually considered a low-sloping or flat roof, whereas a roof that has a ratio of 9 over 12 is considered to have a high slope or a steep roof. It is important to know about the slope of your roof because it can determine many factors about your home. Understanding the slope of your roof and how it affects your home can help you better maintain it.
Rainfall and Debris Buildup
Steep-sloping roofs have a bit more of an advantage over low-sloping roofs when it comes to rainfall and debris. Because of their steep angle, gravity helps to pull down any rainwater or debris that would otherwise accumulate on top of the roof. This helps keep the roof dry and free of damaging moisture, mildew, and heavy weight from leaf litter. Steep-sloping roofs require less cleaning than low-sloping roofs, but they still require some maintenance. Steep slopes can sometimes block wind from reaching the valley, the area where two slopes meet, preventing leaf litter and moisture from being blown off, so your roof will still need to be cleaned from time to time. Because rainwater and debris slide from steep slopes, gutters will need to be cleaned and free of any buildup of debris, such as leaves or pine straw, in order to ensure they continue to work properly.
Repairs
The slope of your roof can also affect the difficulty and price of repairs. A roof with a steeper slope adds a level of difficulty and expense to your repairs. Multiple slopes require more materials for repairs and a complicated support system to make the repairs, which can increase the cost. Flatter roofs require less materials, but both have restrictions on the type of material that can be used. Low-sloping roofs can’t use certain tiles or shingles, and heavy panels are not best for high-sloping roofs.
Attic Space
Having a steep-sloped roof can actually increase your storage and living space. The greater the slope, the more attic space you’ll have to use as extra storage or even as another living space. However, keep in mind the more attic space you have, the more your heating and A/C has to work, which could drive up your energy bill.
Curb Appeal
The slopes of your roof can give your home an aesthetically pleasing and comforting look, and the materials you use on your roof can add curb appeal to your house. Asphalt shingles, a common roofing material for sloped roofs, are waterproof and range in colors. Metal roofing materials can also be used on sloped roofs and have a long lifespan. They also range in color and textures and can add a clean and inviting look to your home.
No roof or slope is one and the same. The slope can determine how rainfall affects your roof, the maintenance of your roof and tiles, and the materials you use. It can also add curb appeal to your home. Whether the slope on your roof is low or steep, knowing how it impacts your home will help you with your home’s upkeep. 
Aliyah Robinson
Home & Yard Magazine
