Best Budget-Friendly Roofing Sheets for Chicken House in Hot Nigerian Climate

When I started my chicken farm in Oyi Local Government Area back in 2017, I made one big mistake.
I used the cheapest zinc roofing sheets I could find.
Within three months, my birds were panting like dogs. Some died from heat stress. Others stopped laying eggs.
That mistake cost me over ₦180,000 in losses.
Today, after eight years of raising chickens and training over 200 farmers across Anambra State, I know better. Choosing the right roofing sheets for chicken house construction is not just about saving money upfront. It’s about keeping your birds alive and productive in Nigeria’s harsh heat.
This guide shares everything I’ve learned about selecting affordable roofing materials that actually work in our hot climate.
Why Your Roofing Choice Matters More Than You Think
Nigeria’s temperature can hit 38°C during dry season. Inside a poorly roofed chicken house, it can reach 45°C or higher.
Chickens are comfortable between 18°C and 24°C. Anything above 29°C causes heat stress.
Heat-stressed birds eat less, lay fewer eggs, and become vulnerable to diseases. According to the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), heat stress accounts for 30% of poultry losses in Southern Nigeria.
I learned this the hard way.
During my first dry season, I lost 47 birds in two weeks. My remaining layers dropped from 85% production to 43%. The vet bills alone were over ₦50,000.
The problem? My roofing sheets absorbed and trapped too much heat.
Roofing sheets for chicken house construction must do three things: reflect heat, provide insulation, and last long enough to justify the cost.
Let me show you which options work best for Nigerian farmers on a budget.
Understanding Different Types of Roofing Sheets

Not all roofing materials perform the same way in hot climates. Here’s what’s available in Nigerian markets:
Aluminum Roofing Sheets
Aluminum sheets are lightweight and reflect heat well. They don’t rust like zinc sheets do.
I visited a farm in Awka North in 2021. The owner, Mr. Chukwudi, used aluminum roofing. His chicken house stayed 5-7°C cooler than mine during peak heat hours.
But aluminum has downsides. It’s noisy during rainfall. The sound can stress young chicks. It also costs more upfront than regular zinc.
Price range: ₦2,800 to ₦4,200 per sheet (0.45mm thickness).
Stone-Coated Roofing Sheets
Stone-coated steel sheets have a layer of stone chips bonded to the surface. This layer provides excellent insulation.
During a training workshop I conducted in Onitsha in 2023, one participant shared his experience. He said his stone-coated roof reduced indoor temperature by 8-10°C compared to his neighbor’s zinc roof.
These sheets last 30-50 years. They don’t fade or corrode easily. Rain noise is minimal.
The challenge? High initial cost. A single sheet costs ₦5,500 to ₦9,000 depending on quality and supplier.
For small-scale farmers starting with 50-100 birds, this investment might be too steep.
Long-Span Aluminum Roofing Sheets
Long-span aluminum sheets cover more area per sheet. This means fewer joints and better weather protection.
I switched to long-span aluminum in 2019 for my layer house. The difference was immediate. My birds became more active. Egg production increased from 78% to 89% within one month.
These sheets typically measure 0.45mm to 0.55mm in thickness. One sheet covers about 2.5 to 3 meters depending on the design.
Cost: ₦3,500 to ₦5,200 per sheet.
Corrugated UPVC Roofing Sheets
UPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) sheets are plastic-based. They’re lightweight, rust-proof, and provide decent insulation.
A farmer I trained in Awka in 2022 used UPVC sheets for his 200-bird broiler house. He reported lower mortality rates compared to his previous zinc-roofed structure.
UPVC sheets don’t conduct heat as much as metal sheets. They’re also transparent or translucent, which provides natural lighting. This saves electricity costs during daytime.
However, UPVC degrades under intense UV exposure. In Nigeria’s hot sun, quality matters significantly. Cheap UPVC sheets can become brittle within 3-5 years.
Good quality UPVC costs ₦2,200 to ₦3,800 per sheet.
Standard Zinc Roofing Sheets (Galvanized Iron)
This is what most Nigerian farmers use. It’s cheap and widely available.
But standard zinc is the worst choice for hot climates.
Zinc absorbs heat rapidly. It turns your chicken house into an oven. During my first year, I measured 44°C inside my zinc-roofed pen at 2 PM. Outside temperature was only 35°C.
If you must use zinc due to budget constraints, you’ll need extra cooling measures. More ventilation openings. Insulation materials under the roof. Shade trees around the structure.
Even then, your birds will struggle during peak heat months.
Price: ₦1,800 to ₦2,500 per sheet (0.45mm gauge).
My Recommended Budget-Friendly Options
After testing different materials and consulting with over 200 farmers, here are my top recommendations for roofing sheets for chicken house construction in Nigeria:
Best Overall: Long-Span Aluminum Sheets
Long-span aluminum offers the best balance of cost, performance, and durability.
Yes, it costs more than zinc. But the benefits justify every naira spent.
Your birds will be healthier. Egg production will be higher. Mortality rates will drop. You’ll save money on cooling and medication.
I calculated my own return on investment. The extra ₦80,000 I spent on aluminum roofing (compared to zinc) paid for itself within 7 months through better egg production and lower mortality.
For a standard 3m x 6m chicken house (about 100 layers), you’ll need approximately 8-10 long-span aluminum sheets. Total roofing cost: ₦28,000 to ₦52,000.
Best Budget Option: Quality UPVC Sheets
If aluminum is beyond your budget, quality UPVC sheets are your next best choice.
Look for sheets with UV protection. Ask the supplier about warranty. Avoid the cheapest options from roadside vendors.
I know a farmer in Nteje who built his starter pen with UPVC roofing in 2020. As of 2024, the sheets are still in good condition. His birds thrive despite the heat.
For the same 3m x 6m structure, you’ll need 10-12 UPVC sheets. Total cost: ₦22,000 to ₦45,600.
UPVC also lets in natural light. This is important for layer production. Studies from Ahmadu Bello University show that natural lighting improves egg laying by 12-15% compared to artificially lit houses.
Budget Emergency: Zinc Plus Insulation
Sometimes cash is just too tight for better options. I understand. Many farmers I’ve trained started exactly there.
If you must use zinc sheets, add insulation underneath. This significantly reduces heat transfer.
During a 2023 workshop in Awkuzu, I demonstrated this technique. We attached old rice sacks to the underside of zinc roofing using thin wire. The indoor temperature dropped by 6°C.
Other insulation options include:
- Cardboard sheets
- Old newspapers (multiple layers)
- Bamboo mat ceiling
- Foil-backed bubble wrap (available at building material shops)
Nylon sheets also work but must be secured properly. Loose nylon can create fire hazards.
A farmer named Mama Ngozi from Nkpor shared her experience. She lined her zinc roof with layers of old cement bags. My chickens stopped panting all day,” she told me. “Before that, I thought they were sick.”
Zinc sheets cost: ₦14,400 to ₦25,000 for 8-10 sheets. Insulation materials: ₦5,000 to ₦12,000. Total: ₦19,400 to ₦37,000.
Still cheaper than aluminum, but requires more maintenance and monitoring.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Roofing Sheets for Chicken House
Heat Reflection and Insulation Properties
Metal roofing color matters more than most farmers realize.
White or light-colored sheets reflect more heat than dark ones. During my 2022 training in Oyi, I showed farmers thermal readings. A white aluminum sheet was 12°C cooler than a dark green one under the same sun.
Always choose the lightest color available for your budget.
Some suppliers now offer pre-painted aluminum sheets with heat-reflective coatings. These cost ₦500-₦800 more per sheet but provide superior cooling.
Durability and Lifespan
Cheap materials often cost more in the long run.
I’ve seen farmers replace zinc roofing three times in eight years. Each replacement means stress for the birds. Lost production during repairs. Additional labor costs.
Quality aluminum sheets last 15-25 years with minimal maintenance. Stone-coated sheets last even longer. UPVC lasts 10-15 years if you buy good quality.
Calculate the cost per year, not just the upfront price.
Here’s a simple comparison:
| Roofing Type | Initial Cost (100-bird house) | Lifespan | Cost Per Year | Heat Performance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Zinc | ₦20,000 | 5-7 years | ₦2,857-₦4,000 | Poor |
| Zinc + Insulation | ₦28,000 | 5-7 years | ₦4,000-₦5,600 | Fair |
| Quality UPVC | ₦34,000 | 10-15 years | ₦2,267-₦3,400 | Good |
| Long-Span Aluminum | ₦40,000 | 15-25 years | ₦1,600-₦2,667 | Excellent |
| Stone-Coated Steel | ₦66,000 | 30-50 years | ₦1,320-₦2,200 | Excellent |
As you can see, aluminum and stone-coated sheets actually cost less per year despite higher initial prices.
Noise Levels During Rain
This factor often gets overlooked until the first heavy rainfall.
Metal roofing creates significant noise during rain. For adult birds, this is mostly annoying. For young chicks, it can be deadly.
I once lost 23 day-old chicks during a thunderstorm. The noise from my zinc roof terrified them. They piled up in corners. Some suffocated. Others got trampled.
Stone-coated sheets are quietest during rain. UPVC is also relatively quiet. Plain aluminum and zinc are the noisiest.
If you’re raising chicks, this matters greatly.
One solution: install a false ceiling using local materials. This dampens sound and provides extra insulation. Total cost: ₦8,000 to ₦15,000 for a small pen.
Availability and Ease of Installation
Exotic roofing materials might be cheaper online or in Lagos. But if they’re not available locally, transportation costs can double your budget.
I always advise farmers to source materials within their state. You’ll save on transport. You can inspect quality before buying. Returns or exchanges are easier if there are issues.
For installation, aluminum and UPVC sheets are lightweight. One person can handle them. Stone-coated sheets are heavier and require two people.
If you’re hiring labor, simpler installation saves money. Most carpenters in rural Anambra charge ₦15,000 to ₦25,000 for roofing a small chicken house.
Ventilation Integration
Your roofing design must work with your ventilation system.
Roofing sheets for chicken house should allow for proper overhang. This creates shade around the walls. It also protects ventilation openings from direct rain.
I recommend a minimum 30cm overhang on all sides. For hot climates like ours, 45cm is even better.
During a farm visit in Nteje last year, I saw a house with poor overhang design. Rain splashed through the ventilation wire mesh. The litter stayed damp. Ammonia smell was terrible. The farmer was fighting constant respiratory infections.
Plan your ventilation before choosing roofing length.
Step-by-Step Guide: Installing Budget-Friendly Roofing

Let me walk you through the process I’ve refined over eight years.
Planning and Measurement
Measure your chicken house accurately. Length, width, and roof angle all matter.
Most small chicken houses use a single-slope or gable roof. Single-slope is cheaper and easier. Gable provides better ventilation and heat escape.
For a 3m x 6m house:
- Single-slope roof needs 8-10 sheets (depending on sheet width and overlap)
- Gable roof needs 10-14 sheets
Always buy 1-2 extra sheets. Mistakes happen. Having spares saves time and stress.
Preparing the Roof Frame
Your roof frame must be strong enough to support the roofing material and withstand wind.
Use treated wood for longer life. Termites destroy untreated wood quickly in Nigeria. I learned this when my first frame collapsed after two years.
Frame spacing depends on roofing material:
- Aluminum sheets: 1.2m purlin spacing
- UPVC sheets: 0.9m spacing (they flex more)
- Stone-coated sheets: 1m spacing
A carpenter named Emeka from Awkuzu taught me a useful trick. He uses old engine oil to treat wood. It’s cheaper than commercial treatments and works well. Just brush it on and let it dry for 24 hours.
Installing the Sheets
Start from the bottom edge and work upward. This ensures proper water runoff.
Overlap sheets by at least 15cm. In areas with heavy rainfall, use 20cm overlap.
Use proper roofing screws with rubber washers. These prevent leaks better than nails. Yes, screws cost more (about ₦5 per piece), but they’re worth it.
I visited a farm in 2023 where the owner used nails. After the first rainy season, he had 17 leak points. Water dripped onto birds at night. They caught cold. His medication costs tripled.
For aluminum sheets, drill pilot holes before screwing. This prevents cracking.
For UPVC sheets, don’t overtighten screws. The material can crack under pressure. Snug is enough.
Adding Insulation (If Using Metal Roofing)
If you’re using zinc or basic aluminum, add insulation immediately after roofing.
The rice sack method is easiest. Get used animal feed sacks (many feed mills sell them for ₦50-₦100 each). Flatten them out. Attach to roof underside using thin wire or strong twine.
Create a 5-10cm air gap between the metal sheet and the insulation. This gap is crucial. It allows hot air to escape instead of transferring into the house.
Another method I’ve successfully used: bamboo mat ceiling. Bamboo mats cost ₦1,500 to ₦3,000 depending on size. They’re durable and provide good insulation.
A farmer named Obioma from Onitsha combined both methods. Rice sacks on the roof, bamboo mat ceiling below. His chicken house stayed noticeably cooler than neighboring farms.
Final Checks
After installation, inspect everything:
- Are all screws tight?
- Any gaps where rain can enter?
- Is the overhang adequate?
- Does water flow off properly?
Pour water on the roof to test. Better to find leaks now than during the first rain.
Check the interior temperature on a hot afternoon. If possible, compare it to outside temperature. Your roofing should keep the inside at least 3-5°C cooler.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing the Absolutely Cheapest Option
I’ve seen this destroy many farms. A farmer buys the lowest quality zinc sheets from roadside sellers. Within months, they’re battling high mortality and low production.
Remember: your roof protects your investment. Those birds cost money to buy, feed, and raise. Losing them to heat stress because you saved ₦5,000 on roofing is false economy.
During my 2024 workshop in Agulu, a new farmer asked why his birds kept dying. I visited his farm. The zinc roofing was so thin, I could dent it with my thumb. It was literally cooking his birds.
Buy the best roofing material your budget allows. If that means starting with fewer birds, so be it. Better to succeed small than fail big.
Ignoring Ventilation Design
Some farmers focus entirely on roofing and forget ventilation.
Your chicken house needs proper air flow regardless of roofing type. Even the best roofing sheets for chicken house construction won’t save poorly ventilated pens.
I recommend ventilation openings covering 20-25% of wall space in hot climates. Use wire mesh to keep predators out.
Position openings to allow cross-ventilation. Wind should flow through the house, not just enter and stop.
Poor Installation Quality
Hiring the cheapest laborer often costs more eventually.
A badly installed roof will leak. Leaks mean damp litter. Damp litter means ammonia buildup and respiratory diseases. These cost far more to treat than paying a skilled carpenter.
Ask for references. Visit farms where your carpenter worked previously. Check his work quality.
I work with three reliable carpenters in Oyi area. Their rates are ₦3,000-₦5,000 higher than others. But I’ve never had to redo their work. That’s worth every extra naira.
Neglecting Maintenance
Even the best roofing needs maintenance. Inspect your roof every three months. Look for loose screws, damaged sheets, or areas where debris has accumulated.
Clean roof valleys during dry season. Leaves and dirt can block water flow and cause rust in metal sheets.
Check insulation materials. Rice sacks and newspapers can deteriorate. Replace them when necessary.
A small maintenance routine prevents big problems. I spend maybe two hours quarterly on roof inspection. This simple habit has saved me thousands in repairs.
Real Cost Analysis: My Eight-Year Experience
Let me share actual numbers from my farm and others I’ve monitored.
My First Chicken House (2017): Standard Zinc
Initial roofing cost: ₦18,500 (10 sheets) Lifespan: 5 years (replaced in 2022) Additional cooling costs: ₦12,000 annually (extra ventilation fans) Heat-related losses: Estimated ₦200,000 over 5 years (mortality, reduced production) Total cost over 5 years: ₦78,500
My Second House (2019): Long-Span Aluminum
Initial roofing cost: ₦42,000 (9 sheets) Expected lifespan: 20+ years (still excellent condition in 2025) Additional cooling costs: ₦0 (natural cooling sufficient) Heat-related losses: Less than ₦15,000 over 6 years Cost per year: ₦2,100 Total cost to date: ₦57,000 over 6 years
The aluminum roofing has already proven more economical. Plus, I won’t need to replace it for another 15+ years.
Student Case Study: Chika’s UPVC Roof (2021)
Chika attended my training in 2021. She started with 80 birds in a 3m x 5m house.
Initial roofing cost: ₦28,000 (UPVC sheets) Additional costs: ₦6,000 (improved installation) Heat-related issues: Minimal Production performance: 82-87% laying rate (excellent) Current status (2025): Roofing still in good condition
Chika told me recently: “That UPVC roof was the best decision I made. My neighbor used zinc. She’s replaced it twice already. I’m still using my original sheets.”
Additional Tips for Hot Climate Chicken Farming
Plant Shade Trees
Roofing isn’t your only defense against heat. Plant trees around your chicken house.
I have three mango trees providing shade to my layer house. They reduce surrounding temperature by 3-4°C during hot afternoons.
Good shade trees for poultry farms:
- Mango
- Guava
- Cashew
- Moringa (fast-growing, provides nutritious leaves)
Plant trees 3-4 meters from the house. Too close and roots might damage the foundation. Too far and you lose the shade benefit.
Paint Your Roof
If you’re using metal roofing, paint it white or light grey. This simple step reflects more heat.
I painted my aluminum roof with white elastic paint in 2020. Cost: ₦8,500 for the paint. The temperature difference was noticeable. About 2-3°C cooler inside.
Repaint every 2-3 years as the paint fades from sun exposure.
Create Air Spaces
Design your chicken house with a high ceiling if possible. Hot air rises. A high ceiling allows it to accumulate above the birds rather than around them.
I recommend minimum 2.5m ceiling height for hot climates. 3m is even better if your budget allows.
The air space between roofing and ceiling (if you install one) should be at least 30cm. This creates an insulation buffer.
Monitor Temperature Regularly
Get a simple thermometer. They cost ₦500-₦1,500 in most markets. Hang it at bird height (not on the wall or ceiling).
Check temperature at different times: early morning, noon, afternoon, and evening. This helps you understand your house’s heat patterns.
If temperature exceeds 32°C regularly, you need better cooling. This might mean:
- Improved roofing
- More ventilation
- Additional shade
- Misting systems (for larger operations)
Where to Buy Quality Roofing Materials in Nigeria

Recommended Suppliers
Based on my experience and feedback from farmers I’ve trained:
Building Materials Markets:
- Ogbete Main Market, Enugu (wide selection, competitive prices)
- Bridge Head Market, Onitsha (good for bulk purchases)
- Hardware sections in major cities
Online Options:
- Jiji.ng (compare multiple sellers, check reviews)
- Jumia (limited selection, but reliable delivery)
Direct from Manufacturers:
- Some aluminum sheet manufacturers in Lagos and Aba offer better prices for bulk orders
- Good if you’re building multiple houses or buying for a cooperative
Quality Checks Before Buying
Don’t assume all sheets labeled “0.45mm” are actually that thick. I’ve bought sheets that were significantly thinner than advertised.
Bring a measuring tape or caliper if possible. Check actual thickness. For UPVC, check for UV protection coating (usually mentioned on the sheet or packaging).
Inspect the surface. Aluminum should be smooth without dents. UPVC should be uniform in color without thin spots.
Ask about warranty. Reputable suppliers offer at least 1-2 years warranty on roofing sheets.
Government and Institutional Support
The National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) sometimes provides subsidized materials for poultry farmers. Requirements vary by state and year.
In Anambra State, the Ministry of Agriculture occasionally runs programs supporting new farmers. In 2023, they provided 40% subsidy on building materials for registered cooperatives.
Contact your Local Government Agricultural Extension office. They can guide you on available support programs.
The Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) in your state may also offer technical assistance for farm construction. They helped me design my second chicken house in 2019.
Environmental Considerations
Dispose of old roofing materials responsibly. Don’t burn zinc sheets (they release toxic fumes). Old metal sheets can be sold to scrap dealers.
Used UPVC sheets can be repurposed for other farm structures. I use old UPVC sheets to cover compost piles and protect feed storage areas.
When your roofing eventually needs replacement, plan ahead. Replace during dry season to minimize stress on your birds.
Some farmers collect rainwater from chicken house roofs. This is great for farm use. However, don’t give this water directly to birds without treatment. Roof water can contain contaminants.
Safety Precautions
During Installation
Roofing work can be dangerous. I’ve seen accidents that could have been prevented.
Use proper ladders, not makeshift wooden structures. A good ladder costs ₦15,000-₦25,000. This is cheaper than medical bills from a fall.
Wear gloves when handling metal sheets. The edges are sharp and can cause deep cuts. I still have a scar from my first roofing project.
Work during cool hours (early morning or late afternoon). Metal sheets become extremely hot under midday sun. Hot sheets are harder to handle and increase dehydration risk.
Never work alone on roofing. Always have at least one helper. They can pass materials and provide help in case of problems.
Fire Safety
Some insulation materials are flammable. Keep them away from electrical wiring. Never use candles or open flames near insulation materials.
If you’re using rice sacks for insulation, treat them with a fire retardant solution. Mix borax powder (available at chemical shops) with water and spray the sacks. This reduces fire risk significantly.
Install smoke detectors if you can afford them. They cost ₦3,000-₦8,000 but could save your farm. A fire in your chicken house means total loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest roofing material for a chicken house in Nigeria?
Standard galvanized zinc sheets are the cheapest upfront option. They cost ₦1,800 to ₦2,500 per sheet in most Nigerian markets. However, they perform poorly in hot climates and typically need replacement within 5-7 years. When you factor in heat-related losses and replacement costs, zinc actually becomes more expensive than better alternatives like aluminum or quality UPVC over time.
How can I reduce heat in my chicken house without changing the roof?
If replacing your roof isn’t possible right now, add insulation underneath the existing roofing. Use materials like rice sacks, bamboo mats, or cardboard layers. Create a 10cm air gap between the roof and insulation for better results. Paint the roof exterior with white or light-colored paint to reflect more heat. Increase ventilation openings to 25% of wall space. Plant fast-growing shade trees around the structure. These combined measures can reduce internal temperature by 6-8°C.
Are UPVC roofing sheets good for chicken farming?
Quality UPVC sheets work well for chicken houses in Nigeria. They provide decent insulation, don’t rust, and allow natural light penetration. The key is buying good quality sheets with UV protection. Cheap UPVC becomes brittle within 3-5 years under intense sun. Good quality UPVC lasts 10-15 years and costs ₦2,200 to ₦3,800 per sheet. I’ve trained several farmers who successfully use UPVC roofing with minimal heat problems.
How many roofing sheets do I need for 100 birds?
A standard house for 100 layers measures approximately 3m x 6m. Depending on the roofing sheet width and design, you’ll need 8-12 sheets for single-slope roofing or 10-14 sheets for gable roofing. Long-span aluminum sheets (which are wider) require fewer pieces than standard sheets. Always buy 1-2 extra sheets for mistakes and future repairs. Consult with your carpenter about exact requirements based on your specific design.
Does aluminum roofing make too much noise for chickens?
Aluminum roofing does create noise during rainfall, which can stress chickens, especially young chicks. However, this isn’t a deal-breaker. Install a false ceiling using bamboo mats or boards underneath the aluminum sheets. This creates an air gap that dampens sound and provides additional insulation. The ceiling costs ₦8,000-₦15,000 for a small pen but solves both the noise and heat problems effectively. Many successful farmers use aluminum roofing with this modification.
Can I use second-hand roofing sheets for my chicken house?
I don’t recommend used roofing sheets unless you can thoroughly inspect their condition. Used sheets often have hidden damage, worn-out screw holes, and reduced lifespan. The small amount you save upfront usually costs more in repairs and early replacement. However, if your budget is extremely tight, buy used sheets only from a verifiable source. Inspect carefully for rust, holes, and excessive thinning. Use them as temporary roofing while you save for better materials.
What is the best color for chicken house roofing in hot areas?
White or very light colors work best for hot climates. Light-colored roofing reflects heat rather than absorbing it. I’ve measured temperature differences of 10-12°C between white and dark green roofing sheets under the same sun. If white roofing isn’t available, choose cream, light grey, or light blue. Avoid dark colors like dark green, brown, or black completely. They absorb maximum heat and create oven-like conditions inside your chicken house.
How long does aluminum roofing last in Nigerian climate?
Quality aluminum roofing lasts 15-25 years in Nigerian conditions if properly installed and maintained. The material doesn’t rust like zinc sheets. However, lifespan depends on thickness and quality. Sheets thicker than 0.45mm last longer. Pre-painted aluminum with protective coating performs better than plain aluminum. I installed aluminum roofing in 2019 and it still looks new in 2025. Regular inspection and maintenance (checking screws, cleaning debris) extends lifespan significantly.
Conclusion: Making Your Decision
Choosing roofing sheets for chicken house construction is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a poultry farmer.
Don’t rush this decision based only on what’s cheapest today. Think long-term. Consider total costs over several years. Factor in bird health, production levels, and replacement expenses.
From my eight years of experience in Oyi and training hundreds of farmers across Anambra, here’s my final advice:
If you can possibly afford it, buy long-span aluminum sheets. They offer the best balance of cost, performance, and durability for Nigerian conditions. Your birds will be healthier. Your production will be better. Your stress will be lower.
If aluminum is beyond reach, quality UPVC with UV protection is your next best option. It performs well and lasts reasonably long.
If you must start with zinc due to budget constraints, don’t skip the insulation. It makes all the difference between success and failure in hot climates.
Remember what I learned the hard way: the cheapest option usually isn’t the most economical option.
Visit my farm in Oyi anytime. See the different roofing materials in action. Talk to my birds—they’ll tell you which roof they prefer! (Just kidding, but you’ll see the difference in their behavior.)
Start right. Build once. Save time, money, and heartache down the road.
If you have questions, reach out through agricultural extension offices in Anambra. I regularly conduct training sessions and farm visits.
May your birds thrive and your eggs plenty!
References:
- National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS) – Heat Stress Management in Poultry (https://naerls.gov.ng)
- Ahmadu Bello University Agricultural Research – Lighting Effects on Poultry Production
- National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) – Poultry Farmer Support Programs (https://nalda.gov.ng)
Disclaimer: The cost estimates and technical specifications mentioned in this article are based on 2024-2025 market conditions in Anambra State and surrounding areas.
Prices may vary by location and time. Always consult with local suppliers for current pricing. The author shares personal experience and observations but recommends consulting agricultural extension officers for specific technical guidance suited to your local conditions.






