Ramp Pitch Calculator
Enter your rise (vertical height) and run (horizontal length) to calculate slope percentage, angle, pitch ratio, and ramp length. Use the same unit for rise and run.
What is ramp pitch?
Ramp pitch describes how steep a ramp is. It is usually expressed as a percentage, an angle in degrees, or a ratio such as 1:12. For example, a 1:12 ramp means for every 1 unit of vertical rise, the ramp runs 12 units horizontally.
If you are building a wheelchair ramp, loading ramp, bike ramp, or garden path, pitch is one of the most important safety numbers to get right.
Ramp pitch formulas
Pitch (%) = (Rise ÷ Run) × 100
Angle (°) = arctan(Rise ÷ Run)
Pitch Ratio = 1 : (Run ÷ Rise)
Ramp Length = √(Rise² + Run²)
Example
If rise = 24 inches and run = 288 inches:
- Pitch = (24 ÷ 288) × 100 = 8.33%
- Angle = arctan(24 ÷ 288) ≈ 4.76°
- Ratio = 1:12
- Ramp length ≈ 289 inches
How to use this calculator
- Measure the vertical height you need to overcome (rise).
- Measure or estimate horizontal space available (run).
- Press Calculate Pitch to get percentage, degrees, ratio, and length.
- Use the optional target ratio field to see the run needed for your preferred standard (for example, 1:12 or 1:16).
Common ramp slope references
Accessibility (typical ADA guideline context)
A commonly referenced maximum is 1:12 (about 8.33%). Local codes can vary, and additional rules may apply for landings, railings, edge protection, and maximum rise per run segment.
Other practical ranges
- 1:20 (5%) — very gentle, easier for many users.
- 1:16 (6.25%) — moderate and comfortable in many settings.
- 1:12 (8.33%) — steeper; often used where space is limited.
Planning tips before you build
1) Start with the rise
The rise is usually fixed by the height difference between two surfaces, so it is your anchor value.
2) Pick a target slope
Choose the least steep slope your available space allows. Gentler ramps are safer and easier to use.
3) Confirm total footprint
Remember to account for landings and turning areas, not just the sloped section.
4) Validate local requirements
Always verify with your local building authority and relevant accessibility codes before construction.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Mixing units (for example, inches for rise and feet for run) in one calculation.
- Using only angle without checking code-based ratio limits.
- Ignoring landing lengths and handrail requirements.
- Building too steep because of tight site constraints.
Quick FAQ
Is a lower pitch percentage better?
In most cases, yes. A lower percentage means a gentler ramp and easier movement.
Can I use feet, inches, or metric values?
Yes. This calculator works with any unit as long as rise and run use the same unit.
Does this replace professional design advice?
No. It is a planning tool. For public, commercial, or regulated projects, consult a qualified professional and current code documents.