Choosing roofing sheets is one of the biggest decisions on any build in Zambia — the roof has to handle heavy rains, strong sun and many years of use. Two profiles cover most homes, shops and warehouses: IBR and corrugated. Here is how they differ and how to choose.
What is IBR?
IBR (Inverted Box Rib) sheets have tall, flat-topped trapezoidal ribs with wide flat pans between them. The deep ribs make the sheet stiff, so it can span further between purlins and carry rainwater away quickly. IBR gives a clean, modern look and is the usual choice for warehouses, workshops, shops and many new houses.
What is corrugated?
Corrugated sheets have the classic rounded wave profile. They are lighter, easy to handle and can follow gentle curves, which makes them popular for houses, verandas, carports and outbuildings. Many people simply prefer their traditional look.
Which one should you choose?
- Choose IBR for larger roofs, low-pitch roofs, commercial and industrial buildings, or when you want a modern finish.
- Choose corrugated for homes, smaller structures, curved roofs or when you want the traditional look.
0.40 mm or 0.50 mm?
Thickness matters as much as profile. A 0.50 mm sheet is more rigid and more resistant to dents from hail, ladders and foot traffic during maintenance. A 0.40 mm sheet is lighter and lower in cost, and works well for homes and smaller roofs. If people will walk on the roof for maintenance, or the roof is large, the thicker sheet is usually worth it.
Don’t forget the accessories
A roof is only as good as its finishing. Plan for ridges, valleys, corner flashing and side wall flashing, and make sure they match your sheets (plain galvanised or colour).
Get the right sheets from Shanju
Shanju stocks South African grade IBR and corrugated sheets in 0.40 mm and 0.50 mm, with ridges and flashing in galvanised and colour finishes. Send us your roof size on WhatsApp and our team will help you work out what you need. Always follow your builder’s or engineer’s specification for spans and fixing.