Types of Mabati in Kenya: The Complete Guide
The main types of mabati in Kenya are corrugated (the traditional wavy sheet and usually the cheapest), box profile (the modern default), tile profiles such as roman and euro tile, versatile concealed-fix sheets, and stone-coated tiles at the premium end. Each suits a different look and budget. Ask a factory directly for current prices.
Mabati (iron and steel roofing sheets) is the default roof in Kenya, on more than 80% of new homes. But “mabati” covers several profiles that look and cost quite differently, and knowing them is the difference between asking a factory the right question and guessing. Here is every main type and who it suits.
We do not publish prices: they move constantly and every company prices differently. Once you know which profile you want, go to a factory from our directory and ask them directly.
Corrugated iron sheets
The original wavy sheet, and usually the most affordable roofing option in Kenya. Corrugated is durable, easy to source and simple to install, which is why it dominates upcountry and on budget builds. The trade-off is looks: the traditional wavy profile is less fashionable than modern box profile. In the same gauge, it lasts about as long as any other sheet.
Best for: budget builds, stores, upcountry homes, rentals.
Box profile
The modern default. Box profile has bold, square ribs that give clean lines and slightly better water run-off. It is the profile most new homeowners choose for a visible roof. It typically costs a little more than corrugated but reads as more contemporary.
Best for: modern homes, visible roofs, most new builds.
Tile profiles: roman and euro tile
These sheets are pressed to look like tiled roofs. Roman tile and euro tile differ mainly in the tile pattern; the base sheet and gauges are broadly the same, so do not pay a premium simply for a renamed sheet. Most of the value is in the colour coat, so always ask about the paint warranty.
Best for: a tiled-roof look without clay or stone-coated tiles.
Versatile (concealed-fix) sheets
Versatile is a concealed-fix profile that hides the screws for a clean, standing-seam look. The catch is naming: “Versatile” is both a brand and a general profile type, so confirm exactly what you are being quoted. The hidden-fastener system adds cost over standard exposed-fix box profile.
Best for: modern, minimalist and hidden-roof designs. See our design galleries.
Stone-coated tiles (Decra type)
The premium segment: steel tiles coated in stone chips for a textured, long-life tiled roof. Decra is the best-known brand. Stone-coated tiles look premium and last decades, but they cost several times more than ordinary mabati and are harder to replace. Watch for counterfeit and thin-coated tiles at this end of the market, and always ask for the manufacturer’s warranty document.
Best for: permanent family homes you will not re-roof.
Which type should you buy?
Work from budget and how long you will keep the roof. For a rental or store, corrugated is hard to beat on value. For a modern family home, box profile is the safe default. For a tiled look, roman or euro tile. For a permanent home where looks and longevity matter most, stone-coated tiles.
Whatever you choose, confirm the gauge in writing and make sure you are dealing with a genuine company. Our guide on spotting a fake factory shows how, and every company in our directory links straight to its own website.