What does the term 'pitch' refer to in construction?

The term 'pitch' in construction specifically refers to the ratio of the rise to the run of the rafters. This measurement is vital in determining the steepness or angle of a roof. In roofing terminology, the pitch is expressed as a fraction or ratio, often represented as "x in 12," where "x" indicates how many inches the roof rises for every 12 inches of horizontal run.

Understanding pitch is crucial for various practical reasons, such as ensuring proper water drainage, allowing for the installation of roofing materials, and maintaining structural integrity under loads like snow. A correctly calculated pitch will also influence the aesthetic appearance of the building.

Other options refer to separate elements related to construction. A type of roof material pertains to the actual substance used for roofing rather than the slope itself. A construction phase denotes a stage in the building process, which is not specifically tied to the slope of the roof. The angle of foundation slopes is about the grading and drainage of the land, distinctly different from the concept of pitch relating to rafters.