Roof pitch is the steepness of your roof, measured by how many inches it rises vertically for every 12 inches it runs horizontally.
Why does pitch matter? Because water runoff changes drastically depending on slope — and flat or low-slope roofs need different materials to handle slow-moving water without leaking.
Rolled roofing is an asphalt-based product that comes in large rolls. It’s applied in long sheets using nails, adhesives, or heat-welded seams.
Standard asphalt shingles are designed for steeper-pitched roofs — ideally 4/12 and up. When installed on roofs with a low pitch, water can pool or back up under the shingle layers, leading to leaks.
That said, we do use shingles on some low-slope applications — but only if the roof has at least a 2/12 pitch and we install them with very specific underlayment and flashing protocols. That includes:
If it’s flatter than 2/12 — shingles are off the table. It’s not worth the risk, and the manufacturer’s warranty likely won’t apply.
Best for roofs with pitch 2/12 or lower
Rolled roofing is one of the few materials that can be used on extremely low-slope surfaces — but only in very specific cases. It should be thought of as a functional, not aesthetic, solution.
Conclusion
Low-pitch roofs require real attention to detail. At Matt’s Exteriors, we don’t just “make it work.” We choose the right product, prep the surface properly, and install it the right way the first time.
A: No — not if you want it to last. Shingles depend on gravity to shed water. Anything flatter than 2/12 puts you at risk for leaks, even with underlayment.
A: Around 5–10 years. It’s a budget-friendly option for low-pitch areas, but it doesn’t last as long or look as clean as other systems. It’s meant for function, not looks.
A: The ideal slope for shingles is 4/12 or greater but can be used on slightly lower slopes if entire area is covered in ice & water shield in order to prevent any leaks.
A: Yes. Rolled roofing is faster and uses fewer materials. But it also wears out faster, has more seams, and doesn’t look great. It’s often best for utility areas, not visible spaces.
