When you’re building your a 3-bedroom bungalow in Nigeria, the roof is one of the biggest investments you’ll make. And one of the most common questions customers ask us at Fabcom Structural Ltd. is:
“How much roofing material will I need for my house, and how much will it cost?”
It’s a good question. Roofing materials are not something you want to guess about. If you underestimate, you risk delays because you’ll need to reorder. If you overestimate, you’ll tie up cash in excess sheets that might not be reusable.
In this guide, we’ll take you step-by-step through:
- How to calculate your roof area for a 3-bedroom bungalow.
- How much of each Fabcom roofing product you’ll need.
- Price estimates for 2025 so you can budget better.
- Tips that can save you money and headaches before you start roofing.
We’ll use an example of a 500 square meter 3-bedroom bungalow, and we’ll assume it has a standard pitched roof.
- Understanding Why Roof Area is Bigger Than Floor Area
- What Can Change the Quantity You Need?
- Understanding Fabcom Structural Stone Coated Roofing Tile Sizes
- Important Notice
- Let’s Calculate for Each Fabcom Structural Roofing Material
- Quick Comparison Table
- Real-Life Example – Two 3-Bedroom Bungalows, Two Different Results
- Tips to Save Time and Money
- How Fabcom Makes It Easy for You
- Conclusion
Understanding Why Roof Area is Bigger Than Floor Area
If your floor area is 500 sqm, you might think that’s the same as your roof coverage, but it’s not.
Two factors make your roof larger than the house footprint:
- Overhangs – Roofs typically extend beyond the wall to protect from rain and sun. Even a 0.5-meter overhang all around adds extra square meters to the total roof area.
- Roof Pitch (Slope) – A sloped roof covers more surface area than a flat one because of the angle. The steeper the pitch, the more material you’ll need.
Quick Estimate Formula:
For a standard bungalow with a moderate pitch and typical overhangs, multiply your floor area by 1.5.
Example:
500 sqm × 1.5 = 750 sqm of total roof surface area.
This is a rule of thumb. If your roof design is more complex, with hips, valleys, dormers, or multiple sections, the area could be even larger.
What Can Change the Quantity You Need?
Even if two houses have the same floor area, the amount of roofing material needed can differ greatly. Here’s why:
- Roof Shape – A simple gable roof wastes less material than a hip roof with lots of cut pieces.
- Sheet Overlaps – All roofing sheets require overlaps to stay waterproof. Overlaps reduce the effective coverage per piece.
- Cutting Waste – Expect at least 5 – 10% wastage from cutting and fitting sheets, especially with more complex designs.
- Material Thickness – Thicker materials cost more but last longer, so you might opt for fewer replacements over time.
At Fabcom Structural, we always recommend adding a 7–10% safety margin to your order to cover wastage and future repairs.
Understanding Fabcom Structural Stone Coated Roofing Tile Sizes
At Fabcom Structural, all our stone coated roofing tiles are sold per square meter, except long span stone coated but each profile (design) has its own unique dimensions, so when you see prices listed “per meter” or “per piece,” it helps to know exactly how much roof each unit covers. Use this quick guide when planning your order. (Remember: actual coverage will be a little less after side/length overlaps—budget an extra 7–10%.)
Regular Stone Coated Roofing Tiles (Sold per square meter) for Profiles & Manufacturing Sizes (for reference):
Depending on the design you choose:
- Milano: 1350 × 423 mm → one tile is ~0.571 m²
- Bond: 1340 × 420 mm → one tile is ~0.563 m²
- Shingle: 1333 × 420 mm → one tile is ~0.560 m²
- Classic: 1346 × 420 mm → one tile is ~0.565 m²
Fabcom Structural sells stone-coated tiles by square meter, not per piece. The sizes above simply explain why different profiles need slightly different tile counts to make up 1 m². We calculate it for you at quotation time so you only pay for m².
Tip: These dimensions help determine how many pieces you’ll need to cover your roof area. Our team can help calculate this for you.
Long Span Stone Coated Roofing Sheets (Sold per square meter)
- Width options: 840mm, 836mm, or 750mm
- Length: Made to your preferred size, but our production team recommends 8 meters for easier logistics and installation.
Why 8 meters?
This length reduces the risk of bending during transport and ensures better handling on site.
How much roof does 1 linear meter cover?
- 750 mm width → 0.75 m² per meter
- 836 mm width → 0.836 m² per meter
- 840 mm width → 0.84 m² per meter
How much roof does one 8 m sheet cover?
- 750 mm width → 6.00 m²
- 836 mm width → 6.688 m²
- 840 mm width → 6.72 m²
Quick planner (100 m² example):
- 750 mm width → ~133.3 m of sheet (≈ 16.7 pcs of 8 m)
- 836 mm width → ~119.6 m of sheet (≈ 15.0 pcs of 8 m)
- 840 mm width → ~119.0 m of sheet (≈ 14.9 pcs of 8 m)
Fabcom tip: Fewer, longer sheets = fewer overlaps and faster installation—just confirm site access for 8 m delivery.
Coloured Steel Long Span (Sold per meter)
- Thickness: 0.35 mm or 0.40 mm
- Widths (cover width): 750 mm, 836 mm, 840 mm
- Length: Cut-to-order (8 m commonly used)
Coverage per linear meter (same math as above):
- 750 mm width → 0.75 m² per meter
- 836 mm width → 0.836 m² per meter
- 840 mm width → 0.84 m² per meter
Coverage per 8 m sheet:
- 750 mm → 6.00 m²
- 836 mm → 6.688 m²
- 840 mm → 6.72 m²
Quick planner (100 m² example):
- 750 mm width → ~133.3 m (≈ 16.7 pcs of 8 m)
- 836 mm width → ~119.6 m (≈ 15.0 pcs of 8 m)
- 840 mm width → ~119.0 m (≈ 14.9 pcs of 8 m)
Fabcom tip: Choose 0.40 mm for extra rigidity in windy zones or where foot traffic on the roof is likely during maintenance.
Traditional Zinc Roofing (Sold per piece)
- Sheet size: 1800 × 635 mm (1.8 m × 0.635 m)
- Area per piece (gross): ~1.143 m² per piece
Quick planners:
- Per 10 m²: ~9 pieces (before overlaps and wastage)
- Per 100 m²: ~87–88 pieces (order ~94–97 pcs allowing 7–10% extra)
Fabcom tip: Traditional zinc is budget-friendly. Plan a little extra for overlaps and cuts around hips/valleys.
Zinc Stone-Coated Roofing Sheets (Sold per piece)
- Sheet size: 1800 × 635 mm (1.8 m × 0.635 m)
- Thickness examples: 0.10 mm, 0.20 mm
- Area per piece (gross): ~1.143 m² per piece (same base size as traditional zinc)
Quick planners:
- Per 10 m²: ~9 pieces (before overlaps)
- Per 100 m²: ~87–88 pieces → order ~94–97 pcs with 7–10% extra
Tip: Offers better surface protection and aesthetics than plain zinc, while staying lightweight.
Important Notice
This article is provided as a general guide to help homeowners and developers understand roofing costs. Actual requirements may vary depending on your building design and roof structure.
At Fabcom Structural Ltd., we are a roofing manufacturer and do not provide installation services. To ensure accuracy, we always recommend working with a qualified professional who can:
- Properly measure your roof
- Prepare a cutting list or purchase order for materials
- Advise you on the best roofing options for your project
This way, you’ll get the exact materials you need without waste, delays, or extra costs.
Let’s Calculate for Each Fabcom Structural Roofing Material
We’ll base our calculations on 750 sqm roof area + 7% wastage allowance. That means we’re estimating for 802.5 sqm of roofing coverage.
1. Stone Coated Roofing Tiles
Our stone coated tiles combine beauty, durability, and weather resistance. We offer profiles for every style:
- Milano: Elegant and wavy, great for modern homes.
- Bond: Sleek, horizontal ridges for a neat finish.
- Shingle: Asphalt-like look for a high-end finish.
- Classic: Timeless, traditional tile style.
- Long Span: Combines stone-coated beauty with fewer overlaps due to length.
Size per tile: 1,340 mm × 420 mm = 0.565 sqm coverage after overlap.
Quantity Needed:
802.5 sqm + 0.565 sqm = 803.06sqm.
Price (2025): ₦5,250 – ₦10,550 per sqm (depending on thickness/profile).
Cost Estimate:
- Price per tile ≈ ₦5,250 – ₦10,550.
- Total: ₦4.216M – ₦8.472M.
Customer Tip: Stone coated tiles are especially good for coastal and high-rainfall areas because they resist rust and reduce rain noise.
2. Coloured Steel Long Span Roofing Sheet
These are sleek, lightweight sheets perfect for a clean, modern roof.
Thickness Options: 0.35 mm & 0.40 mm.
Coverage Width: 0.75 m after overlap.
Recommended Length: 8 m.
Coverage per Sheet: 8 m × 0.75 m = 6 sqm.
Quantity Needed:
802.5 sqm ÷ 6 sqm = ~134 sheets.
Price (2025): ₦8,100 – ₦8,600 per meter.
Cost Estimate:
- 0.35 mm: ₦8,100 × 8 m × 134 = ₦8.68M
- 0.40 mm: ₦8,600 × 8 m × 134 = ₦9.21M
Customer Tip: Choose longer sheets to reduce overlaps. but make sure your site can handle delivery and storage.
3. Long Span Stone Coated Roofing Sheets
Perfect for those who love stone-coated finishes but want the speed and efficiency of long span.
Thickness Options: 0.35 mm & 0.40 mm.
Coverage Width: 0.75 m after overlap.
Length: 8 m recommended.
Coverage per Sheet: 6 sqm.
Quantity Needed:
802.5 sqm ÷ 6 sqm = ~134 sheets.
Price (2025): ₦9,600 – ₦9,900 per meter.
Cost Estimate:
- ₦9,600 × 8 m × 134 = ₦10.30M
- ₦9,900 × 8 m × 134 = ₦10.61M
Customer Tip: This option combines beauty and reduced installation time, making it great for large projects.
4. Traditional Zinc Roofing
An affordable, lightweight option for budget-conscious projects.
Thickness Options: 0.10 mm & 0.20 mm.
Size per piece: 1.8 m × 0.635 m = 1.143 sqm.
Quantity Needed:
802.5 sqm ÷ 1.143 sqm = ~702 pieces.
Price (2025): ₦4,000 – ₦5,000 per piece.
Cost Estimate:
- ₦4,000 × 702 = ₦2.81M
- ₦5,000 × 702 = ₦3.51M
Customer Tip: Best for temporary or budget builds, less durable than other options.
5. Zinc Stone Coated Roofing Sheets
These offer zinc’s lightness with added stone-coated protection.
Thickness Options: 0.10 mm & 0.20 mm.
Size per piece: 1.8 m × 0.635 m = 1.143 sqm.
Quantity Needed:
802.5 sqm ÷ 1.143 sqm = ~702 pieces.
Price (2025): ₦4,000 – ₦5,000 per piece.
Cost Estimate:
- ₦4,000 × 702 = ₦2.81M
- ₦5,000 × 702 = ₦3.51M
Customer Tip: A good middle ground between traditional zinc and full stone coated tiles.
6. Solar Roofing Tiles (Solar Shingle)
These combine roofing and power generation in one product.
Tile specs (Fabcom Structural Solar Roofing Tile):
- Electrical rating: 80 W per tile (0.08 kW)
- Manufactured size: 1340 mm × 420 mm
- Effective coverage (after overlaps): 1260 mm × 370 mm = 0.4662 m² per tile
- 2025 price: ₦68,000 per tile
- Your roof area (example 3-bedroom bungalow): 802.5 m²
Tiles required to supply 7 kW
Tiles = 7kW/0.08kW/tile = 87.5 ⇒ 88 tiles (rounded up)
Cost (tiles only excludes inverter, batteries, mounting accessories, wiring, Labour): 88 × ₦68,000=₦5,984,000
How much roof do 88 tiles cover?
- Each tile covers 0.4662 m² (effective)
- 88 x 0.4662 = 41.03 m²
- So, about 41 m² of your roof will be solar tiles; the remaining ~761.47 m² will be finished with your preferred non-solar roofing (stone-coated tiles, coloured steel long span, etc.).
Fabcom tip: This is a hybrid roof, you get power where you need it, but you don’t have to solar-cover the entire roof.
Customer Tip: Ideal for homes wanting off-grid capability or reduced electricity bills, higher upfront cost, but long-term savings.
Quick Comparison Table
| Roofing Material | Quantity Needed | Price Range (₦) | Estimated Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stone Coated Tiles | ~1,421 tiles | ₦5,250 – ₦10,550/SQM | ₦4.216M – ₦8.472M |
| Coloured Steel Long Span | ~134 sheets | ₦8,100 – ₦8,600/m | ₦8.68M – ₦9.21M |
| Long Span Stone Coated | ~134 sheets | ₦9,600 – ₦9,900/m | ₦10.30M – ₦10.61M |
| Traditional Zinc | ~702 pieces | ₦4,000 – ₦5,000/piece | ₦2.81M – ₦3.51M |
| Zinc Stone Coated | ~702 pieces | ₦4,000 – ₦5,000/piece | ₦2.81M – ₦3.51M |
| Solar Roofing Tiles | ~88 pieces | ₦68,000/piece | ₦5.98M |
Real-Life Example – Two 3-Bedroom Bungalows, Two Different Results
Example A:
Mr. and Mrs. Okoye built a 3-bedroom bungalow in Ogun with a simple gable roof and chose coloured steel long span. Their total order was just over ₦8.9M, and installation was done in 4 days.
Example B:
A similar-sized bungalow in Abuja had a hip roof with valleys and opted for stone coated tiles. Their order cost ₦7.5M, but installation took longer because of the complex production required.
Lesson: Roof design impacts both cost and time.
Tips to Save Time and Money
- Get the right measurements first — Don’t guess. Let us measure or review your plan.
- Factor in transportation — Some lengths are harder to transport and may need special logistics.
- Plan for maintenance — Keep a few spare sheets or tiles for future repairs.
- Choose based on climate — Coastal? Go for corrosion-resistant stone coated or coloured steel.
- Think long term — Spending a bit more now can save you replacement costs later.
How Fabcom Makes It Easy for You
At Fabcom Structural Ltd., we:
- Manufacture locally — reducing wait times and costs.
- Offer multiple product lines for every budget and style.
- Provide expert quantity calculation before you buy.
- Advise on product suitability based on your location and budget.
Conclusion
A roof is about protection, beauty, and value. The right calculation today saves you money, stress, and time tomorrow.
Whether you choose stone coated elegance, modern coloured steel, budget zinc, or cutting-edge solar tiles, Fabcom Structural is here to guide you every step of the way.
Reach out to us below to learn more on which of our product, will work best for your building project.
