Roofing Guides
Straight, numbers-first answers to the questions buyers actually ask, from an independent guide that does not sell mabati.
Types of Mabati in Kenya: The Complete Guide
The main types of mabati in Kenya are corrugated (the cheapest, from KSh 330/m), box profile (the modern default, from KSh 480/m), tile profiles such as roman and euro tile (from KSh 630/m), versatile concealed-fix sheets (from KSh 610/m), and stone-coated tiles (from KSh 1,000/m²). Each suits a different budget and look.
Mabati Gauge Explained: What the Numbers Really Mean
Mabati gauge is the thickness of the steel sheet. The lower the number, the thicker and stronger the sheet. Gauge 28 is thicker than gauge 30, which is thicker than gauge 32. Thicker sheets cost more and last longer. Below is the thickness table and how to confirm the gauge you pay for is the gauge you get.
Cost of Roofing a House in Kenya, by House Size
Roofing a house in Kenya costs roughly KSh 55,000 to 90,000 for a 1-bedroom, KSh 80,000 to 140,000 for a 2 to 3-bedroom, and KSh 130,000 to 250,000 for a 4-bedroom in ordinary mabati, covering sheets, ridges and nails. Trusses and labour are extra. Stone-coated tiles cost several times more.
How Many Mabati Sheets Do I Need for My Roof?
To find how many mabati sheets you need, divide your roof area by the area one sheet covers after overlaps. A 3-metre box profile sheet covers about 2.3 square metres. A typical 3-bedroom roof of 120 square metres needs roughly 55 to 65 sheets, plus ridges and nails. Use the calculator for an exact figure.
How to Spot a Fake Mabati Factory Before You Pay a Deposit
Before you send any money for mabati, check three things: that the Google listing is claimed and has recent reviews, that the phone number and website match the real factory, and that the price matches this month's verified range. Below we show a real imposter listing and exactly how to avoid it.