Guide on Creating Roof Plans

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Roof plans are important in architectural and construction projects. Here are the key steps to draw a roof plan:

1. Start by obtaining the architectural floor plan of the building.

2. Determine the scale for the roof plan and draw the outline of the building’s walls.

3. Add the necessary details, such as doors, windows, and other openings.

4. Identify the slope of the roof by using the pitch or rise over run measurements.

5. Draw the roof surfaces, including ridges, valleys, and eaves.

6. Include any roof features like dormers or skylights.

7. Label the different parts of the roof for clarity.

8. Add dimensions and notes as required.

9. Review the plan for accuracy and completeness.

By following these steps, you can create a clear and accurate roof plan for your architectural or construction project.


Many people dream of designing their own custom home. It is crucial to consider various important factors in order to create a safe, legal, and livable home. These factors include the foundation, floor plan, schematics, and roof design. The roof design is not just a decorative element, but also serves as a protective barrier against the elements such as sun, wind, rain, snow buildup, and more. In fact, the roof often has a larger visible surface area than the walls, so careful planning is necessary. Drawing an appropriate roof design requires a thorough understanding of measurements and facts that are specific to the location, weather, and size of the property.

Step 1

Begin by accurately replicating the floor plan or footprint of the home on graph paper. Pay attention to the measurements and create an exact base footprint to work from.

Step 2

Measure the roof pitch, which refers to the angles of the roof in relation to both the vertical and horizontal rises from the structure. Draw the various intersections that occur as a result of different roof pitches coming together. Consider the run-off that will be generated by these slopes and valleys. Direct the intersections in a way that ensures water and snow melt will flow away from doors, windows, and walkways. Adjustable triangles designed for plotting roof angles can be purchased at hardware stores, saving you time compared to measuring the rise and run of a roof on your own.

Step 3

Incorporate different roof shapes in specific areas of the roof that may require a particular design style. Some common residential roof styles include gable, A-frame, shed, gambrel, hip, and mansard roofs. Each of these styles offers unique features such as run-off, sun exposure for solar panels, temperature management, and aesthetics. Determine your needs and preferences, and then draw the appropriate roof application based on your measurements.

Step 4

Take notes on your roof drawing regarding the materials and finishing touches you wish to use, such as shingles, tiles, or metal panels. These details are important in the design process as the roof is a significant visual element of a home.

Step 5

Show your drawing to a professional drafter for evaluation of your measurements, roofing styles, pitches, and finishes. A local drafter will have access to CAD programs or computer software that can quickly calculate accurate dimensions. These programs can also identify any potential issues with ice buildup, snow melt, or other problems, and highlight areas that need attention for the drafter to address and resolve.

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