Slope & Grade Calculator
An essential utility for surveyors, engineers, and construction workers. Calculate slope percentage, angle, and diagonal distance from the vertical rise and horizontal run.
The Importance of Slope in Construction and Surveying
Slope, often referred to as grade or gradient, is a fundamental concept in civil engineering, surveying, and construction. It describes the steepness or incline of a surface. Proper slope is critical for a vast range of applications, including ensuring adequate water drainage away from buildings, designing safe and accessible roads and ramps, and executing precise earthwork for landscaping and site development. A miscalculated slope can lead to flooding, structural instability, or non-compliance with building codes and accessibility standards.
How Slope is Calculated
The concept of slope is based on a right-angled triangle formed by the vertical "Rise" and the horizontal "Run".
- Slope Percentage (Grade): This is the most common way to express slope in construction. It is calculated as
(Rise / Run) × 100. For example, a slope that rises 1 foot over a horizontal distance of 50 feet has a grade of (1/50) × 100 = 2%. - Angle: The slope can also be expressed as an angle in degrees. This is found using the arctangent trigonometric function:
Angle = arctan(Rise / Run). - Distance: The actual diagonal length of the sloped surface is calculated using the Pythagorean theorem:
Distance = √(Rise² + Run²).