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 (iron and steel roofing sheets) is the default roof in Kenya, on more than 80% of new homes. But “mabati” covers several profiles at very different prices, and knowing them is the difference between a fair deal and an expensive mistake. Here is every main type, what it costs this month, and who it suits.
Corrugated iron sheets
The original wavy sheet and still the cheapest roofing option in Kenya, from about KSh 330 per metre in gauge 32. 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. See the full corrugated iron sheet prices.
Box profile
The modern default. Box profile has bold, square ribs that give clean lines and slightly better water run-off, from about KSh 480 per metre in gauge 30. It is the profile most new homeowners choose for a visible roof. It costs a little more than corrugated but reads as more contemporary.
Best for: modern homes, visible roofs, most new builds. See the full box profile prices.
Tile profiles: roman and euro tile
These sheets are pressed to look like tiled roofs, from about KSh 630 per metre in gauge 30. Roman tile and euro tile differ mainly in the tile pattern; the base sheet, gauges and prices are broadly the same, so do not pay a premium 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 at a mabati price. See roman tile prices and euro tile prices.
Versatile (concealed-fix) sheets
Versatile is a concealed-fix profile that hides the screws for a clean, standing-seam look, from about KSh 610 per metre in gauge 30. 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 the full versatile prices.
Stone-coated tiles (Decra type)
The premium segment: steel tiles coated in stone chips for a textured, long-life tiled roof, from about KSh 1,000 per square metre. 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.
Best for: permanent family homes you will not re-roof. See the full stone-coated prices and the Decra vs mabati comparison.
Which type should you buy?
Work from budget and how long you will keep the roof. For a rental or store, corrugated in gauge 30 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 check the price against this month’s verified range before you pay.