Cost of Roofing Sheets in Kenya
Compare current mabati and roof tile prices in Kenya (per metre & per sqm), learn how to calculate total roofing cost (materials + fixings + labour), pick the best supplier, and get negotiation + warranty tips for a cheaper, long-lasting roof.
Quick price snapshot: cost of roofing sheets in Kenya
This section gives you a clear overview of what you can expect to pay when buying roofing sheets in Kenya, both for standard corrugated sheets (mabati) and roof tiles. It’s designed to help you set your budget early.
Typical price ranges (corrugated mabati, box-profile, roman tile sheets)
In Kenya, basic corrugated mabati sheets can cost around KSh 495 per metre and go up to KSh 730+ per metre for higher-gauge or premium profiles. Box profile sheets typically cost in the range of KSh 550-730 per metre depending on finish and gauge.
Roof tiles price snapshot (concrete, clay, stone-coated)
For roof tiles rather than sheets, the cost is higher. One guide shows concrete or stone-coated roofing tiles costing about KSh 1,800-1,900 per sqm in Nairobi. Since the “cost of roofing sheets in Kenya” is lower, this means mabati remains the budget-friendly option.
What affects roofing sheet prices in Kenya (gauge, profile, coating, supplier)
Here we look at the key factors behind the different pricing tiers for roofing sheets, so you can understand why some quotes are much higher than others.
Gauge explained (G26, G28, G30) and how it changes price
Gauge refers to the thickness of the sheet: the lower the gauge number (e.g., G26), the thicker the sheet and typically the more expensive. A G30 sheet will cost less than a G28 or G26 sheet, but may also offer less durability. One market guide puts 30 Gauge corrugated sheets at around KSh 1,000 per sqm in Nairobi.
Coatings & finishes (galvanised, pre-painted, resin-coated) — cost impact
The finish plays a major role: pre-painted or resin-coated sheets cost more than plain galvanised ones because they resist corrosion, UV and look better. For example, a shop lists Matte finish Gauge 28 sheets at KSh 730 per metre vs gloss finish at KSh 530.
How to calculate how many mabati sheets or tiles you need
Before purchasing, you must estimate the quantity you’ll need — this helps ensure the “primary keyword” cost assessment is effective for your roof.
Measure roof area and losses (overlap, wastage)
First calculate your roof area: length × width, then add supplementary allowance for overlaps and wastage (commonly 5-10%). Overlaps reduce the effective coverage of each sheet.
Quick calculator example (typical 6×10m house)
For a 6 × 10 m house (60 sqm footprint), if the roof has two slopes and each slope is about 10 m long by 6 m wide plus eaves, you might need ~70-65 sqm coverage after overlaps. If a sheet covers around 1.2 sqm, you’d need ~55-60 sheets. Multiply by the sheet price (e.g., KSh 600 × 60 = KSh 36,000) to estimate cost of roofing sheets in Kenya for your structure.
Full cost breakdown: materials, accessories and labour
When considering the “cost of roofing sheets in Kenya”, remember sheets are only part of the story — accessories and labour add significant extra cost.
Mabati sheets cost per metre vs per sqm (how suppliers price them)
Many suppliers quote per metre price (e.g., KSh 495/m) rather than per square metre. To compare, convert: if sheet width is ~0.76 m, then per metre price covers ~0.76 sqm, making effective KSh/m² higher. For example, KSh 495 per metre may equate to ~KSh 650-700 per sqm depending on width.
Battens, screws, ridge caps, flashings — typical prices and quantities
Accessories like ridge caps, valley sheets, screws, washers, battening material all add cost. One guide lists ridge cap (2 m) at KSh 650 and roof screws/washer packet at KSh 150.
Labour & installation: roof type, pitch, and regional rate differences
Labour costs change based on roof pitch, ease of access, and region. While material may cost KSh 600-700 per metre, labour might add a further KSh 200-400 per metre or more. Also, remote regions may incur higher transport and installation premiums.
Roof tiles vs mabati sheets: cost comparison & ROI
If you’re deciding between roof tiles and mabati sheets, the comparison matters. Understanding upfront cost and long-term value helps determine which is really cheaper.
Up-front cost vs lifespan and maintenance
Roof tiles cost significantly more upfront than mabati. For example, stone-coated tiles are ~KSh 3,500 per sqm in Nairobi. Meanwhile high-quality mabati might cost ~KSh 700-1000 per sqm but may require replacement or repainting sooner. The ROI over 20+ years can favour the higher-cost tile if you stay long term.
Thermal performance and resale value
Tiles often offer better insulation and add to the resale value of a home. If you plan to sell or live in the house for many years, the extra initial cost might pay off. For a budget-conscious homeowner however, mabati sheets still serve well, especially when paired with insulation.
Best mabati profiles & tiles for Kenyan climates and budgets
Choosing the right profile and finish ensures you get good value while matching your budget and local climate conditions.
Corrugated vs box profile vs roman tile sheet — pros/cons and price bands
Corrugated sheets are typically the most affordable (KSh 495-600/m), box profiles slightly higher (KSh 550-730/m) and roman-tile style profiles often on the premium side. The right choice depends on aesthetics, roof pitch and budget.
Tile types (concrete, clay, stone-coated) — where they make sense
For high-end homes in Kenya, concrete or clay tiles deliver good performance. For example, concrete interlocking tiles ~KSh 1,810 per sqm in Nairobi. If you want durability and are willing to pay more, tiles may be best; if budget is tighter, mabati sheets offer excellent value.
Where to buy: top suppliers, dealers and online stores in Kenya (how to compare quotes)
It matters who you buy from — quality, warranty and delivery matter just as much as price when it comes to realising the cost of roofing sheets in Kenya.
What to check on the quote (sheet gauge, length, warranty, delivery)
When comparing quotes, verify sheet gauge, length (2 m, 2.5 m, 3 m etc), finish (gloss, matte), brand, and whether delivery is included. A quote like “KSh 610/m Gauge 30 matte” means something very specific and needs comparison.
How to verify authenticity and warranties
Many suppliers claim “20-year warranty” – make sure it is backed by the manufacturer, the sheets carry KEBS certification, and the brand is reputable. For example, one Kenyan brand offers free delivery country-wide and advertises KEBS-certified products.
Price negotiation, discounts & buying tips (bulk buys, off-season, promos)
To reduce your actual cost of roofing sheets in Kenya, it pays to know negotiation levers and timing.
How to get the best price (mix materials, buy accessories together)
Buying accessories (ridge caps, screws, flashings) together with sheets often helps negotiate a bundle discount. Many wholesalers offer lower price per metre when you buy larger quantities or during promotions.
Shipping, delivery and storage tips to avoid damage
Delivery cost and storage matters: If sheets get bent or scratched in transport, you may lose value. Ask for proper packaging, free delivery if offered, and keep sheets off the ground before installation. Plan storage on site.
Maintenance costs and expected lifespan (budgeting for lifecycle cost)
When evaluating “cost of roofing sheets in Kenya”, consider not just the initial cost but the total over years of use.
Common problems and repair cost estimates
Mabati roofs often face corrosion, leaks at joints, or colour fading. Repair costs might include repainting, replacing screws/washers, or replacing sections. A guide mentions accessories like screws and ridge caps from around KSh 150 each.
When to replace vs repair
If your mabati has exceeded 15-20 years and is thin gauge with visible rust, replacement may be cheaper than continual patching. For tiles, replacement cycles are longer so total lifecycle cost may be lower despite the higher upfront cost.
Real example budgets (3 sample quotes: low, mid, premium)
Here we illustrate how the cost of roofing sheets in Kenya can translate into real-world budgets for different types of homes.
Example 1: Small single-room extension (mabati, G30)
Suppose you build a 4 × 6 m extension (~24 sqm), choose Gauge 30 gloss finish sheets at KSh 550/m, assume each sheet covers ~0.76 m width × 3 m length (~2.28 sqm). You’d need ~11 sheets (24 ÷ 2.28) costing ~KSh 6,050 plus accessories ~KSh 3,000 and labour ~KSh 5,000, total ~KSh 14,000.
Example 2: 3-bed home (roman tile mabati)
For a ~100 sqm roof area, choosing a premium roman style mabati at KSh 730/m, with ~0.76 m width, you might need ~45 sheets (~USD conversion not shown) costing ~KSh 32,850, plus accessories and labour perhaps ~KSh 20,000, total ~KSh 52,000.
Example 3: Tile roof (concrete tiles) — cost per sqm + installation
Choosing concrete interlocking tiles at KSh 1,810 per sqm (Nairobi guide) for a 100 sqm roof: material ~KSh 181,000; add accessories and labour maybe ~KSh 60,000, total ~KSh 241,000. This shows the contrast between tiles and mabati sheets.
Conclusion
If you’re evaluating the cost of roofing sheets in Kenya, remember that mabati sheets offer a highly budget-friendly solution, especially for general residential use. By including accessories, labour, delivery and using real per-metre pricing (e.g., KSh 495–730 per metre) you’ll get a realistic budget. If you’re willing to invest more up-front, roof tiles may pay off over time — but the higher initial cost means you must budget accordingly. Use the information above to compare quotes effectively and pick the best solution for your home and budget.
