Roof sheeting has been an integral part of South Africa’s agricultural sector for decades, providing much-needed shelter for livestock and poultry, and keeping expensive equipment and feed protected from the elements. The popularity of this type of roofing has gained momentum, fast becoming the material of choice for construction companies and DIYers due to its ease of installation, reusability, extreme durability, and longevity. The experts at Chemvet Steel & Fencing will guide you through the various options available, helping you make an informed, value-driven decision.
Popular Roof Sheeting Materials
Here are a few popular materials used in roof sheeting:
- Corrugated Iron
Corrugated iron is one of the most recognisable and widely used roof sheeting materials. Made from galvanised steel, it features a distinctive wave-like pattern engineered to enhance the roof’s strength and water-shedding capabilities. When coated properly, it is highly resistant to rust, easy to install, and relatively cost-effective. Corrugated iron is typically used for barns, sheds, and basic industrial buildings, especially where budget and ease of installation are key considerations.
- IBR (Inverted Box Rib)
IBR is characterised by its modern trapezoidal profile, which offers superior strength and load-bearing capacity compared to standard corrugated options. Made from the same durable material as corrugated roofing, IBR is commonly used in industrial applications, warehouses, and larger agricultural buildings. Its aesthetic appeal also makes it suitable for visible roofs on office blocks or storage facilities within an agricultural setup.
- Chromadek®
Proving to be a top roof finishing solution, Chromadek® offers a combination of strength, visual appeal, and a technologically advanced paint system. The heat-reflective pigments in the paint enhance the roof’s lifespan and contribute to thermal regulation within the structure, an essential advantage for the South African climate. The lightness and strength of Chromadek® significantly reduce the load on the building’s overall structure, resulting in substantial savings on both construction time and overall project cost. Its aesthetics and heat-reflective properties make this roofing material the popular cladding choice.
- Widespan
Similar in appearance to IBR, Widespan features broader and flatter rib patterns. This design provides excellent water run-off and strength while allowing for wider coverage per sheet, making it the more affordable option for large-scale roofing. Agricultural roofing solutions for larger buildings, such as packing sheds or bulk storage units, benefit from the efficient coverage and durability Widespan offers.
- Craft Lock
Craft Lock is a concealed fix roofing system engineered for superior weather resistance and a clean, modern look. Its interlocking profile eliminates the need for exposed fasteners, which can lead to leaks over time. This makes it especially suited for high-spec industrial or commercial applications where aesthetics, leak-proof performance, and minimal maintenance are top priorities. The system also reduces installation time and offers excellent wind uplift resistance.
The move to more sustainable building practices and the need for durable, affordable materials, especially in areas prone to harsh weather conditions, has seen an increase in private dwellings embracing exterior steel roof sheeting and cladding.
The Tried and Trusted Long-Term Affordable Option
While some roof sheeting types offer superior longevity, others may provide better ease of installation and maintenance. We hope that by sharing these valuable insights with you, it helps ensure you invest in an outcome that meets your functional, environmental, and budgetary needs. Consult with the team who have a wealth of expertise and knowledge in steel and fencing solutions, and who, after more than four decades, still continue to be the go-to specialists for professional and DIY installations, Chemvet Steel & Fencing.
