Corrugated vs Box Profile Roofing Sheets: Which Is Right for Your Project?
Corrugated vs Box Profile Roofing Sheets: Which Is Right for Your Project?
If you’re looking at steel roofing sheets for your next project, the two most common profiles you’ll come across are corrugated (13/3) and box profile (32/1000). Both are manufactured from galvanised steel, both can be coated in Plastisol or Polyester finishes, and both are cut to your exact length. So which one should you choose?
In this guide we break down the key differences to help you make the right decision.
What Is Corrugated Roofing?
The 13/3 corrugated profile is one of the most recognisable roofing sheets in the UK. The name “13/3” refers to 13 corrugations across 3 feet of sheet width — a design that has been used for over a century on farms, sheds, garages and industrial buildings.
Corrugated sheets have a smooth, wave-like profile that provides excellent strength-to-weight ratio and efficient water run-off. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and simple to cut and fix on site.
What Is Box Profile Roofing?
The 32/1000 box profile (also known as R1000) is the modern industry standard for steel roofing. It features flat pans separated by raised trapezoidal ribs at 32mm height, giving it a clean, contemporary appearance.
Box profile sheets provide 1000mm of coverage per sheet once overlapped, making it easy to calculate how many sheets you need. The flat pans also make it easier to walk on during installation compared to corrugated.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Corrugated (13/3) | Box Profile (32/1000) |
|---|---|---|
| Profile height | ~18mm | 32mm |
| Coverage width | ~1000mm | 1000mm |
| Strength | Good | Higher |
| Appearance | Traditional, classic | Modern, clean lines |
| Walk-on ability | Difficult | Easier (flat pans) |
| Best for | Sheds, barns, agricultural | Industrial, commercial, domestic |
| Price | Same as box profile | Same as corrugated |
They Cost the Same
One of the most common misconceptions is that corrugated sheets are cheaper than box profile. In fact, the steel cost is the same for both profiles. The price difference comes entirely from the coating you choose:
- Galvanised (uncoated zinc steel) — the most economical option
- Polyester (25 micron smooth finish) — mid-range
- Plastisol (200 micron leather-grain finish) — the premium option
Whether you choose corrugated or box profile, the coating is what determines the price per metre.
When to Choose Corrugated
Corrugated roofing sheets are the right choice when:
- You’re replacing an existing corrugated roof (the profile matches old corrugated iron and asbestos cement sheets)
- You want a traditional, rural appearance for agricultural buildings, barns or stables
- You’re roofing a shed, garage, lean-to or outbuilding
- You need a profile that’s easy to curve for barrel roofs
- Planning or heritage requirements call for a corrugated finish
When to Choose Box Profile
Box profile roofing sheets are the right choice when:
- You want a modern, clean-lined appearance
- You’re roofing an industrial unit, warehouse or commercial building
- You need a stronger profile for larger roof spans
- You want easier foot access during installation (the flat pans are easier to walk on)
- You’re building a domestic extension, garage or garden room with a contemporary look
What About Tile Effect?
If you’re looking for something that resembles traditional roof tiles, our V/Tile 1000 and V/Tile 1100 tile effect profiles offer the appearance of clay or concrete tiles at a fraction of the weight and cost. These are popular for domestic projects where planning requirements call for a tile-like finish.
Available Coatings and Colours
Both corrugated and box profile sheets are available in:
- Plastisol — 200 micron, leather-grain texture, 15–25 year colour life
- Polyester — 25 micron, smooth finish, 10–15 year colour life
- Galvanised — zinc-coated, unpainted
We stock a range of standard colours in Plastisol and Polyester. Need a specific colour? Our powder coating service can manufacture either profile in any of 214 RAL colours on aluzinc steel or aluminium.
Still Not Sure?
If you’re not sure which profile is right for your project, give us a call on 0161 343 2060 or use our online Price Calculator to get an instant quote for either profile. We can also send you free samples so you can see and feel the difference before you order.
Coated Steel Products Ltd is a UK manufacturer of steel roofing sheets and wall cladding based in Ashton-under-Lyne, Manchester. We manufacture corrugated, box profile, tile effect and wall cladding sheets cut to any length, in any colour.
