When someone is building a house in Tanzania, the roof is one of the biggest decisions to make. Many people often ask, “Are colour roofing sheets stronger than ordinary Mabati?” This is a very good question, especially because roofing is not something you want to change after a few years.
Let us look at the real differences in a simple and honest way, so you can choose what works best for your home.
What Do We Mean by Ordinary Mabati?
Ordinary Mabati are the traditional iron sheets that most Tanzanians have used for many years. They are usually silver in colour and are coated with zinc to reduce rust. You can find them easily in almost every hardware shop, and they are cheaper than most modern roofing options.
These sheets are strong enough at the beginning, but with time, especially in areas with heavy rain or humidity, the zinc coating slowly wears off. When that happens, rust starts to form, and the sheet becomes weaker.
What Are Colour Roofing Sheets?
Colour roofing sheets are made from steel, just like ordinary Mabati, but they have extra protection. After the metal is coated, it is painted with special finishes that protect it from rust, heat, and weather damage.
In colour roofing sheets in Tanzania, you will see colours like red, green, blue, brown, and charcoal. Apart from looking attractive, these sheets are designed to last longer and perform better in harsh weather.
So, Are Colour Roofing Sheets Really Stronger?
In most cases, yes, colour roofing sheets are stronger than ordinary Mabati, but not just because of thickness. The strength comes from how well the sheet is protected over time.
Better Protection Means Longer Strength
Colour roofing sheets have several layers that protect the metal underneath. These layers help stop water, moisture, and air from reaching the steel. Because rust is the biggest enemy of metal roofing, this extra protection makes a big difference.
Ordinary Mabati usually has only one main protective layer. Once that layer weakens, rust starts, and the strength of the sheet reduces.
Gauge Still Matters
It is important to understand that colour roofing sheets are not automatically thicker. Both ordinary Mabati and colour roofing sheets come in different gauges, such as 28 or 30.
If you compare the same gauge, the base metal strength is similar. However, colour roofing sheets Tanzania stay strong for a longer time because they resist rust and weather damage much better.
Performance in Tanzania’s Climate
Tanzania has different weather conditions depending on the region. Some places have heavy rains, others are very hot, and coastal areas have salty air.
Colour roofing sheets handle these conditions better because:
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The painted surface reduces heat absorption
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Moisture does not easily damage the metal
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Rust develops more slowly
This makes colour roofing sheets a better choice for long-term use, especially for homes near the coast.
Noise and Comfort Inside the House
Many people do not think about noise when choosing roofing. Thin ordinary Mabati can be very noisy during heavy rain, which can be uncomfortable.
Colour roofing sheets are usually quieter because they are better coated and sometimes slightly heavier. This small difference can make the house much more comfortable, especially during the rainy season.
Which One Lasts Longer?
On average:
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Ordinary Mabati may last around 8 to 15 years
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Colour roofing sheets can last 15 to 30 years with good installation
A longer lifespan means the roof stays strong, looks good, and needs fewer repairs. That is why many homeowners are now choosing coloured roofing sheets in Tanzania instead of ordinary Mabati.
Are Colour Roofing Sheets Worth the Higher Price?
It is true that colour roofing sheets cost more at the beginning. However, when you consider fewer repairs, less rust, and longer life, the cost makes sense.
Ordinary Mabati may look cheaper, but replacing a roof after a short time can be more expensive in the long run.
When Ordinary Mabati Can Still Be Used
Ordinary Mabati is still useful in some situations, such as:
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Temporary buildings
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Stores, sheds, and kiosks
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Very limited budgets
But for a permanent family home, colour roofing sheets are usually the better and stronger option.
Final Thoughts
So, are colour roofing sheets stronger than ordinary Mabati?
Yes, they are, especially when you look at long-term strength and durability.
If you want a roof that lasts longer, looks better, and performs well in Tanzania’s climate, choosing colour roofing sheets is a smart decision.
