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Why Metal Roofing Tiles Are Becoming Popular in Kenya

Most suppliers of metal roofing systems guarantee their products for up to 50 years.

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Metal roofs
Metal roofs last decades longer than other roofs. PHOTO | COURTESY

Metal roofing systems are increasingly gaining popularity among homeowners in Kenya mainly due to their high durability and long-term cost-effectiveness.

Made primarily from steel and aluminium, although copper and alloy are sometimes used, metal roofing tiles are favoured by homeowners and builders for their durability, fire-resistant qualities and the ability to reflect radiant heat.

Metal roofs can last as long as the house itself, thanks to their resistance to fire, rot, mildew and insects as well as their ability to seal out water. Most suppliers of metal roofing tiles in Kenya guarantee their products for up to 50 years.

Fire resistance is easily the most important benefit of metal roofing tiles. They are non-combustible and most insurance companies offer discounts of up to 30 per cent due to the high fire resistance provided by the roofing material.

The tiles are usually given a “Class A” fire rating, the highest rating a material can be awarded, in many countries around the world.

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In addition to that, the tiles are also very lightweight which makes it possible to apply a new roof on an existing one without installing additional structural support. This helps to minimise roofing costs.

The materials are also great at reflecting radiant heat away from your house. This helps to keep your home cool during the day – which means some savings on air conditioning costs.

Like other materials, metal roofs have several disadvantages the major one being that they cost higher than other materials.

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However, metal roofing tiles last several decades longer than most other roof options – hence they end up costing less than other materials in the long term.

Another disadvantage of metal roofs is that their installation is an intricate process that is best done by qualified contractors. Repairs and modifications of the roof can be trickier, which may add a substantial amount to your roofing cost projections.

John Nduire is an experienced journalist with a degree in Communications from Daystar University. His reporting is informed by a wealth of knowledge gained from years of covering construction news.