If you look at a right-degree angle or a right triangle, you’ll see the rise as the vertical component and the run as the horizontal component. Rise is the vertical measurement of the distance from one point of your roof to the highest point of the roof. On This Pageīefore calculating the pitch of your roof, let’s go over some basic key terms and measurements so everything is on point. We're here to teach you how to easily calculate and estimate your roof pitch angles manually. This helps you understand how excess water, snow, or debris falls off the roof, which also helps guide you to the right type of shingles or roofing materials you need. Understanding your new roof's pitch and slope is incredibly important. Image source: Action Property Inspections