Choosing the right roofing sheet for your home or commercial building is one of the most important decisions you will make during construction.
In Ghana, two of the most widely used roofing materials are corrugated roofing sheets and long-span roofing sheets. Each option has unique features, benefits, and ideal use cases that influence cost, durability, appearance, and long-term performance.
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Understanding the differences can help you make a confident and informed decision that suits your building’s purpose, budget, climate conditions, and aesthetic goals.
This guide explains everything you need to know about corrugated and long-span sheets, including their advantages, disadvantages, best applications, and a practical side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right roofing solution.
Corrugated roofing sheets are characterized by their wavy, rippled patterns that increase structural strength and make them highly resistant to bending. Historically made from galvanised metal, modern corrugated sheets in Ghana are commonly manufactured from aluzinc, galvanised steel, or aluminium, offering improved corrosion resistance and durability.
Their wavy shape distributes weight and impacts evenly, making them excellent for areas prone to heavy rainfall, strong winds, or moderate impact. Corrugated sheets are often used in industrial buildings, warehouses, farm structures, temporary structures, and low-cost housing, although improved designs have made them suitable for residential roofing as well.
Long-span roofing sheets, on the other hand, have a smoother, broader profile with fewer ridges and larger surface coverage per sheet.
This design gives them a modern appearance that many homeowners prefer for residential and commercial buildings. Long-span sheets cover wider areas with fewer overlaps, which reduces the chances of leakage and improves structural efficiency.
They also tend to be quieter during rainfall when paired with proper insulation and have strong wind uplift resistance. In Ghana, long-span roofing sheets are popular for their aesthetic appeal, versatility, and suitability for both simple and complex roof designs.
They are available in several profiles, including step-tile long-span and embossed variants that mimic the look of premium roofing systems at a lower cost.
Below is a clear comparison to help you understand how each type performs.
Comparison Table: Corrugated vs Long-Span Roofing Sheets in Ghana
| Feature | Corrugated Roofing Sheets | Long-Span Roofing Sheets |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Wavy, traditional profile | Smooth, modern profile |
| Material Options | Aluzinc, aluminium, galvanised | Aluzinc, aluminium |
| Durability | Very strong due to ripple design | Highly durable with proper thickness |
| Leak Prevention | Requires proper overlap | Better leak prevention due to long coverage |
| Wind Resistance | Excellent when well-fastened | Strong, designed for wider coverage |
| Noise During Rain | Can be louder | Quieter with insulation |
| Cost | Generally cheaper | Slightly more expensive |
| Installation Speed | Fast | Very fast due to wide sheets |
| Best For | Industrial, farms, low-cost projects | Homes, offices, premium structures |
| Visual Appeal | Basic and functional | More stylish and modern |
Which Roofing Type Should You Choose in Ghana?
Your choice between corrugated and long-span roofing sheets depends on your building’s purpose, budget, and the look you want to achieve. If you want a budget-friendly solution that delivers strength and reliability, corrugated sheets are an excellent choice.
Their wave design makes them highly durable and resistant to impact, which is perfect for industrial structures, workshops, or buildings in rural areas.
However, if you want a modern look and fewer chances of leakage due to longer coverage, long-span roofing sheets offer better aesthetics and advanced performance for homes and commercial buildings.
They also reduce the number of joints, which is a major advantage in rainy regions such as Accra, Kumasi, Western Region, and Volta Region.
For long-term home value, long-span roofing sheets generally offer a more attractive finish that enhances your property’s appearance. Step-tile long-span sheets, especially, mimic the look of tiles while offering the lightweight benefits of metal.
Also: Best Roofing Sheet for Coastal Areas in Ghana: Best Guide
On the other hand, if cost savings are your top priority and you want something simple but strong, corrugated sheets give you durability without stretching your budget.
You should also consider your location. Coastal areas may benefit more from aluminium long-span sheets due to their superior corrosion resistance. Inland areas can confidently use either aluzinc corrugated or long-span sheets depending on project design and financial plans.
Work with a qualified roofing contractor for accurate measurement, thickness selection (usually 0.35mm to 0.55mm), and proper installation to prevent rust, leaks, or sheet lifting during storms.
FAQs: Corrugated vs Long-Span Roofing Sheets in Ghana
1. Which roofing type lasts longer?
Both can last 25–40 years depending on material thickness, installation quality, and maintenance. Aluminium long-span roofs may last slightly longer in coastal areas.
2. Which one is more affordable?
Corrugated sheets are generally cheaper than long-span roofing sheets and are ideal for budget-conscious projects.
3. Which is better for preventing leaks?
Long-span sheets have minimal overlaps, reducing the risk of leaks when properly installed.
4. Can I use corrugated sheets for residential homes?
Yes. Modern corrugated sheets can be used for homes, although long-span sheets remain the more popular and visually appealing choice for residential roofing.
