Standing Seam Roofs | Pros and Cons for MS Businesses

Norman Roofing • July 10, 2025
A house with a brown roof and a lot of windows.

If you’re looking to upgrade your commercial roof, choosing the right material can be a challenging decision. With so many options available, it’s important to find a solution that balances durability, cost and long-term performance.


Let’s take a closer look at standing seam metal roofs, which are a popular choice for many Mississippi businesses, and break down the key pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your property. 


First, What Are Standing Seam Roofs?


Known for their modern appearance and durability, standing seam roofs are made of metal panels. These long, vertical metal panels are connected by raised seams that run along the roof, spanning from the roof’s ridge to its eaves. These seams not only create a sleek look but also help protect against water intrusion. 


So, Let’s Examine the Benefits of Standing Seam Roofs…


Hidden Fasteners


What’s unique about this system is that the fasteners are hidden beneath the panels. This design not only helps to create a uniform appearance but also reduces the risk of leaks over time. Similarly, their material plays a role in this roof’s ability to endure. 


Performs Well Under Pressure


Since these types of roofs are composed of metal, they are extremely durable. They’re resistant to pests, fire and mold. Plus, they hold up extremely well against harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, high winds and even hail. It's also a roofing solution that combines strength and longevity. 


The Sustainable, Long-Term Investment


Standing seam roofs are a sustainable choice for commercial buildings, offering both environmental benefits and long-term value. They’re able to reflect sunlight, which means they absorb less heat than traditional roofing methods. This lowers the amount of energy needed to keep buildings cool, lowering energy costs. 


Due to their exceptional durability, standing seam roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years. With little maintenance required, fewer materials and labor are needed over time.


This not only helps businesses save on expenses but also reduces waste. Businesses benefit from reduced lifecycle costs and long-term reliability. In addition, metal roofs can be fully recycled at the end of their lifespan, making them an environmentally friendly option. 


What Are the Cons of Standing Seam Roofs?


Higher Installation Costs


Compared to traditional roofing materials, standing seam roofs are more expensive to install. This is mainly due to the higher material costs of the panels and the labor needed to properly install metal panels. Standing seam roofs can be difficult to install and a skilled roofer with specialized equipment is required to complete the project successfully. 


Can Produce Lots of Noise


One potential drawback of standing seam roofs is the amount of noise they can produce, especially during heavy rain, hail or wind. Unlike traditional roofing materials that absorb sound, metal panels tend to amplify it, which can be disruptive in certain commercial settings. While insulation and soundproofing materials can help reduce this noise, it's an important factor to consider when choosing the right roofing system for your building.


Difficult and Costly Repairs


While these types of roofs are highly durable, they are not completely immune to damage from severe weather, impact or aging. When repairs are needed, they can be difficult and costly due to the complexity of the system and the need for specialized skills and tools.


The interlocking panels and concealed fasteners make repairs more involved than with other roofing types, and the metal materials themselves are more expensive to replace. As a result, even minor issues can lead to higher repair costs and longer service times.


It’s Not Ideal for Every Commercial Roof


While standing seam metal roofs offer many advantages, they’re not the ideal choice for every commercial building, especially those with very low-pitched roofs. Roofs with a pitch lower than 2:12 might not allow for metal panels to drain effectively, increasing the risk of pooling, leaks and long-term damage.


So, What Does This Mean for MS Businesses?


For many commercial businesses in Mississippi, metal roofs are an ideal solution. While they might have higher installation costs, their upfront costs justify the long-term protection and peace of mind. Plus, their cooling effects are helpful for keeping energy costs down during the intense summers that occur in the Magnolia State.


However, this roofing solution is not ideal for all businesses. Large, sprawling facilities that have low-pitched roofs may fare better with synthetic roofing options like TPO and PVC. If cost is a concern, smaller businesses may benefit more from asphalt shingle roofing. 


If you’re unsure of whether or not standing seam roofs are the right option for your business, it’s always best to consult with a professional roofer. They have the skills and experience needed to determine which roofing system will best suit your individual needs. 


Looking for Metal Roofing Experts? Norman Roofing Has Got You Covered!


Whether you’re considering an installation or need repairs, Norman Roofing is here to help. Based in Meridian, we’ve proudly served communities across Mississippi and Alabama for 48 years.


We also perform detailed inspections and offer emergency roofing services. Have questions or want to learn more about our metal roofing options? Give us a call 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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