How MS Businesses Can Prevent Common TPO Roof Problems

Norman Roofing • September 2, 2025
Flat commercial roof with HVAC units and skylights under a blue sky.

Mississippi’s hot, humid climate and frequent storms can take a serious toll on commercial roofing systems, particularly TPO roofs. By understanding the most common problems and taking proactive steps, businesses can protect their roofs, extend their lifespan and avoid unexpected repairs. Let’s take a closer look at some common TPO roof problems and what business owners can do to prevent damage to their systems. 


Clean Your Roof Regularly


Regular cleanings are essential to keeping your TPO roof in top condition and extending its lifespan. Over time, debris like leaves, branches and dirt can accumulate on the surface, trapping moisture and leading to algae or moss growth. Gently washing the membrane with a soft-bristle brush and water can help remove buildup without compromising the material.


It’s important to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools, as they can weaken the TPO system and cause unnecessary damage. For the best results, it's recommended that you get professional cleanings twice a year to ensure the roof is thoroughly cleaned. 


Trim Your Trees


Another way that businesses can protect their TPO system is by trimming the surrounding trees. In Mississippi, vegetation can grow tremendously, producing lots of debris that can accumulate on the roof. Overhanging branches can scrape or puncture the membrane during storms or high winds, while fallen leaves and twigs trap moisture and encourage algae or moss growth. By keeping nearby trees properly maintained, you can reduce these risks and help ensure your TPO roof remains durable and long-lasting.


Keep Your Gutters and Downspouts Clean


Ensuring your gutters and downspouts are frequently cleaned plays an important role in protecting your TPO roof from damage. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up onto the roof, leading to pooling and increased stress on the membrane. Over time, this trapped water can seep into seams or vulnerable areas, increasing the risk of leaks and structural damage.

Regularly removing leaves, debris and other blockages allows water to quickly drain from your roof, which helps prevent water damage and extend the lifespan of your system.


Reseal Vulnerable Areas


Resealing vulnerable areas is a crucial step in protecting your TPO roof and preventing costly damage. Over time, the caulking around pipes, vents and drains can degrade, leaving gaps where water can seep in. Even small amounts of water can accumulate and cause extensive damage to the roofing system if left unchecked. By regularly inspecting these critical points and resealing them as needed, property owners can maintain their roof’s integrity, extend its lifespan and avoid expensive repairs down the line.


Prepare Ahead of Severe Weather


To help protect your roof from severe weather, businesses should plan ahead. Prior to a storm’s arrival, it's important to secure rooftop equipment like HVAC units and vents. This prevents them from shifting or becoming dislodged during high winds, which could puncture or tear the membrane. 


Businesses should also reinforce any weak spots to ensure that their roof doesn’t detach during intense storms. Some common weak spots include loose seams, edges or flashing, which are especially vulnerable to uplift. By taking proactive steps before a storm, property owners can significantly reduce the risk of costly repairs and extend the life of their TPO roof.


Schedule Routine Inspections and Maintenance


Routine maintenance and inspections are essential for keeping your TPO roof in excellent condition. Regular upkeep ensures that your roof is working properly and underlying issues are addressed before they escalate into major repairs. By staying proactive, businesses can extend the lifespan of their TPO roof and get the most value out of their investment. Some issues that can be addressed during routine inspections include: 


  • Small punctures – Can allow water to seep into the roofing system.
  • Seam gaps – Compromise the roof’s watertight barrier
  • Cracks – May worsen over time due to temperature fluctuations
  • Blisters – Can indicate trapped moisture or air
  • Pooling water – Accelerates membrane wear and promotes algae growth


Looking for Reliable Roofing Services? Contact Norman Roofing Today!


Looking for experienced roofers to maintain the TPO roofing system? Norman Roofing has you covered. Based in Meridian, we’ve proudly served communities across Mississippi and Alabama for 48 years.


Our team specializes in commercial roof installations, routine maintenance and emergency roofing services to keep your system performing at its best. If you’re ready to work with roofing professionals who prioritize quality and durability, call us today at 601-483-4079. To explore all of our roofing options, visit our website by clicking the link here.



By Norman Roofing October 28, 2025
For industrial buildings in Mississippi, a reliable roof is essential for success. Roofs must withstand the state’s humid climate, heavy rainfall and occasional storms without compromising safety or durability. While a variety of roofing options are available, four materials dominate the industrial roofing market: metal, EPDM, TPO and PVC. So, which roofing material is the best fit for your business? In this guide, we’ll break down the options that perform most effectively in Mississippi, helping you make an informed choice for your facility. Metal Designed to last anywhere between 40 and 70 years, metal roofs are incredibly durable. They’re able to withstand Mississippi’s harsh weather and are fire-resistant. For industrial buildings, this is a great advantage when it comes to safety. Plus, metal roofs are lightweight and require fewer support structures than traditional materials. However, it’s important to note that they typically cost more than other materials since they require specialized skill and labor for installation. Plus, added insulation may be needed to keep energy costs down. EDPM Made from synthetic rubber, EDPM is another ideal option for industrial buildings. The roofing material is resistant to UV rays, harsh weather and a variety of chemicals that are commonly used in industrial work. Typically, this material lasts for about 20 to 30 years and is easy to install. While EPDM offers excellent chemical resistance, it is prone to tearing from foot traffic and debris. Additionally, you may want to consider a lighter-colored EPDM. While lighter colors are more expensive, they absorb less heat than the traditional black color. TPO Similarly, TPO is resistant to both UV rays and chemicals. Its flexibility allows it to withstand the intense heat of Mississippi summers. While this material typically lasts 15 to 30 years, it's easier to install than other roofing materials and can lower energy costs. While TPO can be used on a variety of industrial buildings, it’s not as resistant to grease and chemicals as EPDM. Prolonged exposure may cause this roofing material to degrade over time, potentially leading to leaks. PVC This single-ply membrane is often used in chemical processing plants for its ability to withstand harsh chemicals. PVC roofs are also moisture-resistant, which is beneficial for roofs in the southeast that are exposed to constant humidity. Typically, PVC roofs can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years. While PVC is a viable option, it tends to cost more than other materials. This is largely due to the special skills needed to install the material safely and efficiently. What Material Should MS Industries Use? Often, roofing material is selected based on the specific requirements of the industry. Here are some common industries where material selection plays a critical role: Automotive manufacturing – Requires a material that’s able to withstand chemicals, intense heat and humidity. While EPDM is popular in older facilities, TPO is ideal for newer ones due to its ability to reflect light. Textile mills – For the most chemical resistance, EPDM is often used in textile mills, where frequent exposure to dyes and other chemicals can wear down other roofing materials. Shipbuilding – Since these facilities cover lots of ground, it's not uncommon to see metal roofing in shipbuilding facilities. However, metal roofs must have a protective coating to prevent corrosion from salt air and excessive humidity. Distribution centers – TPO is commonly used for newer facilities since it reflects light and stands up well against harsh weather. EPDM and BUR are commonly found in older facilities. Agricultural buildings – Metal is typically used since it’s exceptionally durable and resistant to pests. Since farms are especially vulnerable to pests, metal roofing is a practical choice for buildings that house feed and livestock. Looking for a Commercial Roofer? Norman Is Here To Help! Whether you’re upgrading your roof or installing one from scratch, Mississippi businesses can rely on a trusted partner. For over 40 years, Norman Roofing has provided the Southeast with expert roofing solutions designed to withstand harsh weather, debris and everyday wear. If you’re looking for honest roofers, call Norman Roofing today at 601-483-4079 to get started on your next project. To explore our other services, including metal panel installation, visit our website by clicking the link here .
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