We have some useful tips for you about metal roofing installation. These installation tips are of a limited nature and should only be used as a guide. They are not to relied upon as an exact instruction on how a roof should be safely installed which will vary with circumstances.
If you have any problems with roofing installation or need help with the technical aspects of laying your mabati roofing, ask us for any advice you need. We’ll be happy to provide any assistance you need. Please feel free to reach us on 0700 667 667 or sales@mabatiyetu.co.ke.
Tip #1: Roof slope
The slope of your mabati roof determines water flow off, leaks and lifespan of the roof. Steep slope mabati roof is inherently less prone to leaks, while low-slope or flat mabati roofs will require your fundi to add extra waterproofing protection.
The recommended minimum pitch is 3:12. This ensures water flows off the roof correctly and the roof is not susceptible to leaks or other damages.
Our recommended minimum slope for tile profiles is 22.6 degrees and 15 degrees for box and corrugated profiles.
Tip #2: Get the correct measurements.
Measure twice, cut once, as they say!
Roof measurements need to be exact. Measurement errors and any incorrect numbers can lead to all sorts of issues such as leaks or worse! You should purchase a few extra pieces to cover for any mistakes and odd cuts you have to make to any material.
Tip #3: Order custom-made mabati to fit
If possible, avoid seams in your roof. They don’t look great, and it could lead to water getting underneath the panels. Customized mabati will help you reduce wastage from off-cuts. Using one use single lengths to cover each run of roof from eave to ridge gives better aesthetics, economy and reduced chance of leakage.
Tip #4: Hire an experienced roofing expert.
Roofs are major investments and play an important role in keeping your home safe from the elements. You need an experienced roofer to get it right.
Expert roofing contractor ensures that your mabati installation is done correctly in compliance with safety standards, using appropriate tools and equipment that ensure safety during installation.
Tip #5: Installing roofing sheets
- Laying the roofing sheets should take place in runs, beginning at the far wind edge, preventing water ingress with lapped edges not facing the prevailing wind. The first sheet should be installed exactly perpendicular to the eaves to limit adjustments as more are laid. We recommend when laying your first few sheets to not fully fix them until you are sure they are correctly aligned. This will aid roofing installation in making any initial adjustments.
- Always overlap the left edge of the sheet over the right edge (looking form outside). The two edges of each mabati sheet are different. The edge that overlaps has a shorter rib leg that doesn’t contact the roof surface when laid flat.
- Ensure screws or roofing nails are used in conjunction with appropriate rubber washers. Fastening the mabati panels just right is the key to a watertight roof. Start at the bottom, fastening across the panel in rows, working toward the ridge.
- Roofing screws/nails should be fixed perpendicular to the sheeting in the middle of the rib, and always at the top of the crest for maximum water tightness. Screws can be fixed through the pan/ valley or crest for walling applications.
Tip #5: Install new flashings tightly.
When constructing your purlin support structure, you may need to consider additional purlins to support your ridge caps and other flashing.
Flashing is more or less the finishing touch on your roofing project. They make for full-sealed joints, eliminating leaking and make for nice aesthetic touches in many cases.
Tip #6: Roof Safety & Protective Equipment
- Roofing work can be dangerous. Caution should be exercised, and appropriate safety precautions taken including the wearing of suitable protective gloves, clothing, footwear and hard hat.
- You need to arrange the number of people to lift sheets off a delivery truck taking into consideration their own physical ability, weather conditions, length and weight of sheets. Extra care should be taken in windy or exposed areas. The edges of sheets and flashings can be sharp so remember to wear protective gloves with rubber palms for grip.
- Installers/Fundis should formally assess the risks associated with each roofing job and, before starting their work, to plan and organize their work so that it is carried out in a safe manner.
- Care should be taken when handling sheets to prevent damage and injury during installation. If possible, mechanical handling equipment should be used. Dragging one sheet’s edge across another when unloading may cause scratching of the sheet below, so make sure the sheet is lifted clear and not dragged. Any packaging should be removed before lifting sheets onto a roof.
- Ensure that all Fundis are sober and alert while on the job, reducing the risk of fatal accidents and personal injury.
Mabati Yetu Factory accepts no liability for any loss or injury caused by any reliance placed on these tips. If you are unsure about how best to install your roof, we would recommend contacting an experienced professional.
