What is Pitch?
Definition of Pitch in Construction
Pitch refers to height over run. What this means, is a ratio of the height achieved, verses run, in a roof, a slope or anything that has a gradient involved.
The pitch is a reference point for roofing materials, slope stabilization, etc. Pitch is used in many different construction occurrences and is a major analytical calculation used in engineering to determine stability or non – stable situations that would require corrective measures. The pitch of a roof determines the type of material used to roof the structure as well as the amount of room in the upper story or attic of the building.
If the roof has a steep pitch, then the amount of room is substantial, such as a colonial design, if the roof pitch is shallow, like a ranch structure, the space under the roof is minimal. The pitch in slopes is the gradient of the slope . The application of stone rip rap or erosion control netting on a hillside is determined by pitch. In piping applications, a positive pitch, is normally a pitch that will drain, meaning the beginning of the pipe is higher than the outfall or end. This will provide positive pitch and the fluid will flow out. If the pitch becomes negative, problems normally occur. If ,for some reason, the slope of a drain pipe becomes negative, the water will not drain, and the rationale used in design and engineering is reversed, causing issues of flooding, water contamination, etc. Pitch is a primary element in the installation of sanitary as well as storm piping. A pipe run with the proper pitch, is important to the overall function of the entire piping system.