Western Colloid, a Los Angeles-based leader in fluid-applied reinforced roofing systems, announced the launch of 298 X Asphalt Emulsion, a product it says “revolutionizes” the restoration of gravel roofs and ponding areas. 

In a Feb. 5 news release, Western Colloid said that its 298 X Asphalt Emulsion contains a proprietary fire-resistant filler that increases the volume solids of the emulsion, making it much more effective as a fill coat over rough surfaces and for building up areas that have ponding water. 

“With 298 X, we’ve added a special lightweight component to the standard 298 Asphalt Emulsion to maintain volume after drying,” said Greg Hlavaty, president of Western Colloid. “The increased volume lessens the shrinkage that usually occurs when used as a fill coat over gravel or in ponding areas after evaporation.”

Western Colloid says it is positioning itself as a leader in developing systems to restore gravel roofs with its 298 Asphalt Flood Coat product, eliminating the need for a costly tear-off and reroof. The company said 298 X allows contractors and building owners to achieve an even smoother surface on a roof restoration.

“Primarily, we're using it in gravel systems to fill voids, but it's also ideal in low and ponding areas as a ponding filler,” Hlavaty said. “It’s also saving time and labor as in most cases a second pass is no longer needed when applying emulsion.”

Traditionally, asphalt emulsion is not a high-solids product. Western Colloid said enhancements made to produce the 298 X product “…transforms the standard asphalt emulsion into a high-volume solids product for enhanced performance and appearance.” 

The product is being manufactured at the company’s Alvarado, Texas plant due to the high demand for re-roofing gravel roofs in that region, according to the news release, which added that production would be expanding in 2024 to the company’s Oakland, Calif., and Los Angeles plants. 

“We are excited about the potential of this product, and soon, we will be offering Western Colloid 298 X in a spreadable grade for more specific use in ponding areas,” said Hlavaty. “We are very excited to add that version as virtually every roof has some standing water somewhere. In the future, you will be able just to take a five-gallon pail of 298 X, apply it, let it dry, and continue with your installation.”

For more information, visit westerncolloid.com.