Rubber roofing is one of the most reliable and cost-effective solutions for homes and commercial buildings with low-slope or flat roofs. As a trusted roofing contractor, First State Roofing & Exteriors specializes in rubber roof installation, repair, and replacement. Whether you’re looking for a durable new system or need to address leaks and aging seams, our expert team delivers long-lasting results using proven EPDM technology.
Rubber roofs are ideal for coastal climates, offering waterproof protection against heavy rain, intense sun, and temperature shifts. Let’s explore why more Delaware homeowners and businesses are choosing rubber roofing for flat roof protection.
Why Choose First State Roofing & Exteriors
Local Expertise
We understand the unique challenges of Milford’s climate, including freeze-thaw cycles, humidity, and seasonal storms.
Licensed & Insured
All our professionals are fully certified, and our work is backed by comprehensive insurance policies.
All-in-One Service
Whether it’s a small repair or a complete roof overhaul, we manage the entire project from start to finish with no outsourcing.
Why Rubber Roofing Is Ideal for Homes and Businesses
Milford receives over 45 inches of rainfall annually, according to U.S. Climate Data, and is subject to summer humidity and winter freeze-thaw cycles. EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber roofs are built to handle these extremes, offering reliable year-round performance.
Key benefits include:
- Excellent waterproofing for flat or low-slope roofs
- UV resistance to withstand Delaware summers
- Flexibility in freeze-thaw conditions
- Low maintenance and long service life (up to 40–50 years)
- Cost-effective installation
With minimal seams and durable synthetic membrane construction, rubber roofing is especially well-suited to structures in flood-prone zones or with limited roof pitch.
Our Rubber Roofing Services
Rubber Roof Installation
If you’re building a new structure or converting a low-slope area, we offer professional EPDM rubber roof installation using fully adhered or mechanically fastened methods. Our team ensures proper drainage, edge flashing, and seam sealing for maximum leak prevention.
Rubber Roof Repair
Many aging rubber roofs develop problems like seam separation, ponding water, and membrane shrinkage. We provide expert repair services to patch tears, reseal seams, and restore your roof’s performance quickly and affordably.
Check out our roof repair services to learn how we can restore your rubber system before full replacement is needed.
Rubber Roof Replacement
If your roof is beyond repair, often after 30+ years of wear, we offer full tear-off and replacement using advanced EPDM systems. We upgrade insulation, improve ventilation, and ensure your new rubber roof is built to last.
Visit our roof replacement page to explore options.
EPDM vs. Other Flat Roof Materials
Rubber roofing (EPDM) is one of the most popular flat roofing materials, but how does it compare to alternatives like TPO or modified bitumen?
- EPDM: Flexible, proven over decades, resistant to UV and weather. Long lifespan (30–50 years).
- TPO: More reflective (better for energy savings), but slightly less flexible.
- Modified Bitumen: Asphalt-based, multi-layered system with torch-down or self-adhered installation. Shorter lifespan and higher maintenance.
Our team can help you evaluate the best solution for your property’s structure, budget, and exposure.
Rubber Roof Coatings: A Cost-Saving Alternative to Replacement
Roof coatings can extend the life of an aging rubber roof by 10–15 years. At First State Roofing, we apply commercial-grade elastomeric and silicone coatings designed to:
- Seal minor cracks or seams
- Improve reflectivity and lower cooling costs
- Prevent UV degradation
- Reduce leak risk
If your EPDM roof is aging but not failing, a coating system may be the perfect bridge to future replacement.
Signs You Need Rubber Roof Repair or Replacement
If you notice any of the following signs on your rubber roof, contact us for an inspection:
- Ponding water or slow drainage
- Bubbling or wrinkling in the membrane
- Visible tears, cracks, or seam gaps
- Interior leaks or water stains
- Loose flashing around HVAC units or skylights
Our expert team can quickly assess your roof’s condition and recommend the right solution, repair, coating, or replacement.
In a coastal climate, a properly installed EPDM rubber roof can last 30 to 50 years. Regular inspections and prompt repairs can help extend its life despite heavy rain, UV exposure, and winter freezes.
Yes. Rubber roofing is ideal for flat or low-slope areas common in porch roofs, additions, and commercial buildings. It handles local weather conditions better than many traditional materials.
Yes. EPDM is designed to resist water penetration. However, ponding water can reduce longevity over time. Our team ensures proper drainage and slope design to prevent long-term issues.
EPDM rubber roofing offers excellent flexibility and durability in extreme temperatures, while TPO is more reflective and energy-efficient. We help property owners choose the best option based on their structure and budget.
It’s low maintenance, but we recommend annual inspections, especially after storms. Fluctuating temperatures and salty air can wear down seams and flashings over time if not addressed.
In some cases, yes. If your existing surface is flat and in good condition, a new rubber membrane may be applied over it. We’ll inspect your property to determine feasibility.
Contact Us Today
First State Roofing & Exteriors
202 E Mt Vernon St #1, Smyrna, DE 19977
Phone: (302) 222-4065
Business Hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours