After Nearly 50 years, Emulsion and Elastomeric Roof Coating Systems are Finally Coming of Age

Western Colloid is a pioneer and innovator of asphalt emulsion-based roof systems that can be applied over virtually any existing roof.

After growing to become one of the largest roof coating contractors in the Western U.S., Larry Widmer understood the need for consistent, quality products. He founded Western Colloid in the 1970s so he could manufacture his own coatings and fluid-applied systems. Fast-forward almost 50 years and the company’s asphalt emulsion products are rapidly becoming the roof system of choice for environmentally conscious building owners.

Traditionally roof coatings were just used for repairs or short-term fixes until a new roof can be installed, but not anymore. Western Colloid has changed that by taking an asphalt emulsion core and building it into a roof system that could be applied over virtually any existing roof.

Protecting the Environment Western Colloid’s asphalt emulsion is very kind to the environment because it’s made with just three ingredients - asphalt, water and clay. It has no solvents or added chemicals. The company’s unique manufacturing process blends it into a water-based product that can be applied over many different kinds of roofs. Built-up roof systems, modified-bitumen, TPO, EPDM, Hypalon and coal tar pitch can all accept the type of asphalt emulsion that the company makes.

The ability to install the roof system over existing materials means that fewer construction debris is ending up on landfills. Reducing the amount of construction debris conserves landfill space, reduces the environmental impact of producing new materials, creates jobs, and can reduce overall building project expenses through avoided purchase/disposal costs. When the new system does begin to age and wear, it can be recoated a second and third time to ensure maximum protection for years to come.

Another reason it is becoming so appealing to building owners, architects and specifiers is that it has zero VOCs, no fumes and little to no odor. It is applied at ambient temperatures and there is little impact to occupants of buildings where the system is being installed.

High Performance Standards To overcome the long-standing view that roof coatings are only used to stretch a few more years of service out of expensive roofs, Western Colloid stepped up to the plate by committing to testing and obtaining FM approval ratings. FM Approvals is the only organization in the world that tests only complete roofing assemblies, subjecting them to tests that simulate multiple real-world perils such as fire above and below the deck, wind uplift, hail, weathering, water leakage, foot traffic and the corrosion of metal parts.

Western Colloid’s systems can be installed with Cool Roof characteristics with Energy Star® and reflective surfacing options. To learn more about Western Colloid’s Roof Coating Systems,  to schedule an an appointment for a demonstration, or visit www.westerncolloid.com.

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