Are Single-Skin Wall Panels a Good Choice for AL Businesses?

Norman Roofing • October 28, 2025
Corrugated metal walls meet at an angle against a blue sky.

If you’re looking to invest in a new building, choosing a durable and energy-efficient exterior is a crucial decision. The right materials not only protect your structure from the elements but also help reduce energy costs and maintenance needs. One option that has become more popular in recent years is single-skin metal wall panels.


Although they’ve been used for decades, single-skin panels weren’t always considered a versatile option. Once limited mainly to industrial buildings, modern advancements in technology now allow these metal panels to be used across a wide range of commercial spaces.


Before exploring their benefits, it’s important to first understand what a  single-skin metal wall panel is and how it functions.


So, what are single skin metal wall panels? 


Made from steel or aluminum, single-skin wall panels are designed to protect a building’s exterior from the elements. They are typically installed horizontally, with panels running along the outer surface. Common applications include warehouses, storage units and manufacturing facilities.


How do they benefit AL businesses? 


  • Easy and quick installation – Since the panels are lightweight, they can be installed quickly and easily. Plus, they can be installed in a variety of weather conditions, unlike other materials. 
  • Weather resistant – Metal panels are built to withstand extreme weather, making them an excellent choice for buildings in Alabama, where heat, humidity and heavy rainfall are likely to occur. 
  • Long-lasting – The lifespan of these panels typically ranges from 20 to 40 years, depending on factors such as climate, material quality and the level of maintenance.
  • Low maintenance – Metal panels require minimal maintenance, typically needing only annual cleaning and inspections to ensure they remain in good condition.
  • Customizable – Available in a variety of colors, styles and materials, these panels can be customized to match your building’s aesthetics. 
  • Eco-friendly – These panels can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, making them a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious businesses.


What are the drawbacks of metal wall panels? 


  • Require protective coatings – Without proper coatings, metal panels can be prone to corrosion and wear over time, especially in humid or coastal environments.
  • Can be noisy – Rain, wind and hail can bounce off metal panels, creating noise during intense storms. In some cases, additional soundproofing may be needed to combat the noise.
  • Requires insulation – To maintain energy efficiency and indoor comfort, metal panels often need added insulation, especially in extreme temperatures.
  • Higher upfront cost – Oftentimes, metal wall panels cost more than other materials. This is due to the special labor needed to correctly install them. 
  • Color fades over time – After many years of UV and weather exposure, it’s likely that the color will fade and flake off over time. 


Are they the right choice for Alabama businesses? 


If you’re looking for a durable, lightweight material that can cover your building’s exterior, single-skin metal wall panels are definitely an option for Alabama businesses. They are commonly used in Alabama since they hold up exceptionally well against the extreme heat and weather. 


However, If cost is your primary concern, then you may want to look at other alternatives to metal wall paneling. Oftentimes, metal panels are more expensive than their vinyl and fiber cement counterparts.


This is mainly due to the specialized skills needed to install them properly. Plus, Alabama business owners would need to invest in protective coatings to prevent heat and humidity from damaging the panels. These coatings are especially important in coastal areas, where salty air can cause corrosion.


When It’s Time To Consult a Professional


If you’re unsure whether metal panels are the right choice for your building, it’s best to consult a licensed contractor. A professional can assess your structure and evaluate factors like climate, durability and budget. From there, they can recommend a solution that best fits your specific needs.


Looking for Metal Wall Experts? Norman Roofing Is Ready To Help!

Thinking about metal panels? Norman Roofing has you covered! Located in Meridian, we’ve proudly served communities throughout Mississippi and Alabama for 48 years.


In addition to metal panels, we offer a full range of roofing services, including repairs, replacements and installations. If you’re ready to get started, call us today at 601-483-4079 or 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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