Slope Calculator

Calculate slope angle, percentage, and ratio between two points. Supports both metric (m) and imperial (ft) units. Ideal for construction, landscaping, and engineering applications.

Unit System

Metric (meters)

Imperial (feet)

Calculation Method

Two Points

Angle and Run

Angle and Rise

Rise and Run

Common Slope Presets

X1 (Point 1) (m)

Y1 (Point 1) (m)

X2 (Point 2) (m)

Y2 (Point 2) (m)

About Slope Calculator

Understanding Slope

Slope is a measurement of the steepness or grade of a line, surface, or terrain. It can be calculated and expressed in several ways: as an angle (in degrees), a percentage, or a ratio. Each representation has specific uses in different applications.

Calculation Methods:

Two Points Method (using coordinates)
Angle and Run (using angle and horizontal distance)
Angle and Rise (using angle and vertical distance)
Rise and Run (using vertical and horizontal distances)

Common Applications

Construction

• ADA Ramps (max 8.33%)
• Driveways (typ. 15%)
• Roof Pitch (e.g., 4:12)
• Drainage (min 2%)

Transportation

• Highway Design (max 7%)
• Railway Grades
• Access Roads
• Bike Paths

Important Considerations

Safety Factors

• Maximum safe gradients
• Surface material properties
• Weather conditions
• Erosion potential
• Load-bearing capacity

Design Limitations

• Accessibility requirements
• Vehicle capabilities
• Maintenance access
• Cost considerations
• Environmental impact

Standard Slope Requirements

Common Slope Standards

Application	Maximum Slope	Notes
Wheelchair Ramps	1:12 (8.33%)	ADA requirement
Residential Driveways	15-20%	Varies by location
Highway Design	6-8%	Standard conditions
Drainage Pipes	1-2%	Minimum for flow

Terrain Classifications

Standard Classifications:

• Flat Terrain: 0-3% slope
• Rolling Terrain: 3-7% slope
• Mountainous Terrain: 7-12% slope
• Steep Terrain: >12% slope

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right calculation method?

Choose based on your available measurements: use Two Points for known coordinates, Angle and Run/Rise when you have an angle measurement, or Rise and Run when you have direct measurements of vertical and horizontal distances.

What slope is too steep for different applications?

Maximum slopes vary by application: ADA ramps must not exceed 8.33%, residential driveways typically max at 15-20%, highways usually max at 7%, and drainage pipes need at least 1-2% slope for proper flow.

Learn More

ADA Standards FHWA Design Standards

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