In Kenya, most homeowners used corrugated or metal sheets for their roofing needs for the longest time.
Recently, plastic roofing systems have become popular in high-end apartments, malls, and other residential homes.
Kenyans.co.ke exclusively spoke to Jonathan Kyalo to determine why many Kenyans were now opting for plastic roofs.
Why plastic roofs are becoming popular?
Plastic roofs which are commercially known as polycarbonate sheets may soon become the main type of roofing system in Kenya according to Kyalo.
“Plastic sheets are very strong compared to other types of sheets.
“The sheets are almost unbreakable and that is why they are preferred in commercial houses to reduce chances of liability in case of an accident,” he told Kenyans.co.ke.
Ease of transportation is also making the roofs very popular according to the contractor.
“They are very light and that reduces transportation costs and also makes them easy to install compared to metal sheets,” Kyalo explains.
Kyalo who mostly builds houses in Syokimau, Kitengela, and Mlolongo satellite towns of Nairobi explains why the roofs are now being preferred in those towns.
“The region is sunny almost throughout the year, making other roofs fade easily. When you are buying the plastic roofs you are assured, they will not fade, rust, or be affected by extreme temperatures,” he explains.
Ecosheets which is an environmentally friendly construction journal adds that the roofs are able to block Ultra Violet Rays making them the ideal roofing sheets.
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, exposure to UV light can cause skin cancer, premature aging, cataracts, and immune suppression.
The main disadvantage of using plastic roofs is that they are not scratch-resistant and denting so they should be handled with care.
