The feature of most roofs is the SLOPE, which is typically measured in degrees and is the angle at which the roof rises from its lowest to highest point. The term 'SLOPE' is derived from the Latin word for 'INCLINE' and is usually expressed as a ratio of the rise over the run. Roofs with a steeper SLOPE are more difficult to construct and require more materials, but they are also more effective at shedding water and snow.