CSLB C-39 Roofing ContractorLow-Slope RoofingMedium
A roofer is building a cricket to divert water toward a drain located 40 feet from the cricket's high point. Code requires a minimum slope of 1/4 inch per foot. What is the minimum required drop in elevation from the high point to the drain?
- A8 inches
- B12 inches
- C10 inches
- D5 inches
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 10 inches
Minimum drop = slope (1/4 inch per foot) × distance (40 feet) = 0.25 × 40 = 10 inches. This ensures positive drainage toward the drain and prevents ponding.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Does not meet the required 1/4 in/ft slope over 40 feet.
- B. Exceeds the calculated requirement, more slope than necessary.
- D. Would result from only about 0.125 in/ft, below code minimum.
Cricket Slope Calculation
Crickets are tapered insulation or built-up areas that redirect water toward drains; minimum slope is typically 1/4 inch per foot.
- Standard minimum slope: 1/4 in per ft
- Drop = slope × distance
- Prevents ponding at roof high points/valleys
Memory trick: Quarter inch per foot, multiply and you're set.