📐 Calculate Truss Height Truss Height Calculator
Calculate ridge height, rafter length, and pitch for any roof truss type
🏠 What is Truss Height?
Truss height (or ridge height) is the vertical distance from the top of the wall plate to the peak of the roof. It's determined by the roof pitch (slope) and the building width. This calculator helps you find the exact ridge height, rafter length, and heel height for your roof truss design.
📏 Building Dimensions
📐 Roof Pitch
/12
Truss Height Results
Ridge Height
8.00
ft
Total Building Height
16.00
ft
Rafter Length
14.42
ft
Roof Slope Angle
33.7
degrees
📋 Calculation Breakdown
Building Width:24 ft
Half Width (Run):12 ft
Pitch:8/12
Rise per foot of run:0.667 ft
Total Rise:8.00 ft
Ridge Height (above wall):8.00 ft
Rafter Slope Factor:1.202
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📊 Roof Pitch Reference Guide
3/12 - Very low slope (minimal)
4/12 - Low slope (easy walkability)
6/12 - Standard pitch (most common)
8/12 - Steep pitch (snow shedding)
10/12 - Very steep (dramatic look)
12/12 - 45° angle (maximum drama)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you calculate truss height?
Truss height = (Building Width ÷ 2) × (Pitch ÷ 12). Example: 24ft wide building with 8/12 pitch = (24 ÷ 2) × (8 ÷ 12) = 12 × 0.667 = 8ft ridge height above wall plate.
What is the standard roof pitch for a house?
The most common roof pitch is 6/12, meaning the roof rises 6 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal run. This provides good water drainage, walkability, and aesthetic appeal.
How high should my ridge be?
Ridge height depends on building width and desired pitch. Multiply half the building width by the pitch ratio (pitch ÷ 12). For a 24ft wide building with 8/12 pitch, ridge height is 8ft above the wall plate.
What is a scissor truss?
A scissor truss has a sloping bottom chord that creates a vaulted ceiling inside. The pitch difference between top and bottom chords determines how dramatic the vaulted effect is.
What is the minimum roof pitch for shingles?
Asphalt shingles require a minimum pitch of 2/12 (2 inches rise per foot). For pitches below 4/12, special low-slope installation methods are recommended to prevent water infiltration.