Protect Your Roof: 4 Common Commercial Roofing Issues in MS

Norman Roofing • September 2, 2025
Aerial view of a white flat roof with equipment. Buildings, parking lot, and a lift in the foreground.

Commercial roofs in Mississippi face a unique set of challenges due to the state’s hot, humid climate and severe weather conditions. If left unchecked, small issues can quickly grow into costly problems that disrupt business operations and shorten a roof’s lifespan. To help property owners stay ahead, here are four of the most common commercial roofing issues in Mississippi and what you can do to protect your investment.


1. Excessive Humidity


Due to the Mississippi’s high humidity, commercial roofs face an increased risk of mold and algae growth over time. While metal roofs and single-ply membranes such as TPO, PVC, and EPDM are designed to resist moisture intrusion, they are not completely immune.


2. Corrosion From Saltwater


For some commercial roofs, the risk of corrosion is especially high in Mississippi since it borders the Gulf of Mexico. Due to the salt and moisture brought in from the Gulf, the components on your roof can suffer from premature wear. 


Constant exposure to salt can rust your roof’s panels, fasteners and flashing, weakening your system’s structural integrity and shortening its lifespan. It’s incredibly important that businesses with metal and asphalt shingle roofs stay up-to-date on routine inspections, protective coatings and timely repairs. All of these factors can reduce the effects of corrosion and extend the lifespan of your roofing system.

Path through sand dunes leading to the ocean under a bright blue sky.

3. UV Radiation


In Mississippi, the intense sunlight and high levels of UV radiation can be especially harsh on commercial roofing systems. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s rays can dry out and weaken BUR and modified bitumen, causing them to crack, blister and lose their protective oils over time. 


Single-ply membranes like EPDM are also prone to shrinking when exposed to constant UV light. These issues not only shorten the lifespan of the roof but also increase the risk of leaks and energy inefficiency. To lower the risk of UV damage, it's not uncommon to use reflective coatings to deflect sunlight and help protect your roof’s surfaces. 


4. High Winds, Flying Debris


High winds and flying debris are another threat to commercial roofs in Mississippi, especially during storm season. Strong gusts can lift and loosen roofing materials, making systems like single-ply membranes particularly vulnerable at their seams and edges. 


Asphalt shingles and modified bitumen roofs are also at risk, since flying debris can cause significant damage, leaving the roof open to water intrusion. Even metal roofs can suffer dents or damage if struck by large debris. Regular maintenance, secure installation and impact-resistant materials can help protect your roof from high winds and debris.

Beach scene: palm tree in strong wind, crashing waves, overcast sky.

Protect Your Roof Year-Round With Routine Maintenance


While you can’t completely avoid Mississippi's harsh climate and environmental conditions, you can mitigate their impact with routine maintenance. 


While it’s impossible to fully escape the effects of Mississippi’s harsh climate and environmental conditions, routine maintenance can help fortify your roof. Regular inspections and routine maintenance protect your system from potential damage and allow roofers to identify small issues before they develop into costly repairs. Some examples of routine maintenance include:


  • Recurring inspections – Helps roofers spot early signs of wear, corrosion or storm damage before they turn into expensive repairs.
  • Cleanings – Regularly removing leaves, branches and other debris prevents clogged drains and reduces the risk of water pooling on the roof.
  • Resealing seams – Keeping seams properly sealed helps prevent leaks and strengthens vulnerable areas where roofing materials connect.
  • Applying protective coatings – Coatings add an extra layer of defense against UV rays, moisture and temperature fluctuations, helping extend the roof’s lifespan. 


Need Experienced Commercial Roofers? Call Norman Roofing Today! 


Whether you need routine maintenance or emergency repairs, our experts at Norman Roofing are here to help! Based in Meridian, we’ve proudly served communities across Mississippi and Alabama for 48 years.



 Have questions or want to learn more about our roofing options? Call our team today at 601-483-4079 to schedule an estimate or service. For more information about commercial installations and replacements, 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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