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Pitch Converter – Degrees, Ratio & Percent

Quick answer

Two-way pitch converter: enter degrees (15-50°), rise:run or percent slope and get the other two, plus rafter multipliers for each.

Figures are estimates from this calculator’s standard formula — adjust the inputs in the tool below for your exact number.

How the pitch conversion calculator works

% = tan(θ) × 100; Ratio = tan(θ) × 12

This tool applies the formula % = tan(θ) × 100; Ratio = tan(θ) × 12 directly to the measurements you enter, so the result is an exact quantity rather than a rough guess. Because pitch conversion is priced and delivered per unit - cubic meters, square meters, bags or tonnes - a small measurement error multiplies across the entire order, which is why the calculation is worth doing properly. Worked example: Input 40% slope: angle = arctan(0.4) = 21.8°, ratio 4.8:12, rafter multiplier 1.077. One note from practice: Percent slope is what site levels read - convert once, order right once. Enter the one of: degrees, ratio or percent, check the totals, then round up to the nearest whole bag, sheet or roll before you place the order.

  1. 1

    Measure the space

    Record the one of: degrees, ratio or percent at the widest and longest points.

  2. 2

    Enter the values

    Type the measurements into the calculator and select your units.

  3. 3

    Apply the formula

    The tool computes % = tan(θ) × 100; Ratio = tan(θ) × 12 for your inputs instantly.

  4. 4

    Add waste and order

    Review the total with a 5-10% margin and round up to whole units.

Use Cases

Shingle re-roofing

Bundle counts for pitch conversion squares with 10-15% waste.

New build takeoffs

Complete pitch conversion material lists from plan dimensions.

Pitch conversions

Turn rise-run readings into pitch conversion angles and factors.

Common Mistakes

  • Using footprint as roof area

  • Ordering zero waste

  • Shallow pitch with shingles

FAQs

15 degrees equals what pitch ratio?

tan(15°) × 12 = 3.2:12 - a 26.8% slope, common over carports and porches.

45 degrees in roof terms?

12:12 ratio and 100% slope - every meter of run climbs a meter of rise.

What percent is a 6:12 roof?

50% - and its rafter multiplier is 1.118, so a 4 m run needs a 4.47 m board.

Typical pitches by roof style?

Gable homes 4-9:12, hip roofs 4-6:12, sheds 2-4:12, A-frames 12:12 or steeper.