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Everflex VBS: Dual-Action Vapour Barrier & Primer
Everflex VBS is a two-part water-based epoxy system engineered to provide superior vapour barrier protection and substrate priming in a single solution. Designed for use beneath waterproofing membranes, adhesives, and levelling compounds, it effectively seals porous or damp concrete while tolerating negative hydrostatic pressure up to 250kPa. Non-toxic and solvent-free, this Green Star-compliant epoxy system resists mould, re-emulsification, and water damage.
Key Features & Specifications
- 2-part water-based epoxy – no solvent odour, low VOC
- Can be applied to damp or green concrete (≥7 days cure)
- Withstands negative hydrostatic pressure up to 250kPa
- Highly compatible with waterproofing membranes and levellers
- Recoatable within 6–8 hours under standard conditions
- Penetrates and seals porous or dusty concrete
- Prevents blistering or delamination of coatings and adhesives
Why Choose Everflex VBS?
- Simplifies flooring and waterproofing system preparation
- Safe for use in confined spaces — very low VOC and non-flammable
- Ideal for basements, plant rooms, retaining walls, wet areas and balconies
- Part A and B supplied in pre-measured kit for easy mixing and site use
Best Practices: Do's & Don'ts
Do
- Mix Part A and Part B thoroughly before application
- Apply by roller, brush, or broom in thin, even layers
- Use on substrates with moisture levels up to 85% RH (ASTM F2170)
- Allow full cure before overcoating (typically 24 hours)
Don't
- Don’t apply over standing water or hydrostatic leaks
- Don’t dilute or mix with non-compatible materials
- Don’t apply if ambient temperature is below 10°C or above 35°C
Trade Use Cases: Applied in the Field
Flooring Installer: Damp Slab Sealing
The Problem
Client needs to apply vinyl over 7-day old concrete, but moisture levels are too high for adhesive use.
The Solution
Apply Everflex VBS in two coats as a vapour barrier. Allow to cure 24 hours before applying vinyl adhesive system.
Best Practice
Use a hygrometer to verify RH ≤ 85% and apply VBS at 5–6m²/L per coat for full film coverage.
Waterproofer: Negative Pressure Retaining Wall
The Problem
Retaining wall in basement has occasional damp patches and requires waterproofing from the internal side.
The Solution
Apply Everflex VBS as a negative waterproofing primer before membrane to resist back pressure up to 250kPa.
Best Practice
Ensure wall is structurally sound and free of standing water before VBS application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Everflex VBS be applied to damp concrete?
Yes. Everflex VBS is designed to be applied to green or damp concrete with a minimum 7-day cure time. Substrate RH should be ≤85% (ASTM F2170).
Is Everflex VBS a primer or a vapour barrier?
Both. It acts as a penetrating primer and an effective Class I vapour barrier, suitable for waterproofing and flooring applications.
Can I apply tile adhesives or levellers over Everflex VBS?
Yes. Everflex VBS is compatible with most tile adhesives, membranes, and self-levelling compounds. Ensure full cure before overcoating.
How long do I need to wait before recoating or applying membranes?
Recoating is possible after 6–8 hours. Full cure is typically achieved in 24 hours under normal ambient conditions.
Does Everflex VBS have any strong odours or solvents?
No. It is water-based, solvent-free, and very low in VOCs, making it suitable for enclosed or occupied spaces.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Priming green or damp concrete | Eliminates the need for long cure times before applying adhesives, levellers, or membranes | Tilers, Flooring Installers, Waterproofers |
| Vapour barrier under membranes | Protects membranes and floor finishes from blistering due to rising moisture | Waterproofing Contractors, Builders |
| Negative waterproofing for internal walls | Resists back pressure up to 250kPa when applied in multiple coats | Remedial Waterproofers, Structural Repair Technicians |
| Moisture mitigation under vinyl or timber flooring | Prevents flooring adhesive failures and discolouration due to moisture | Flooring Specialists, Interior Fit-Out Contractors |
| Sealing porous substrates prior to levelling | Improves adhesion and finish of levelling compounds and adhesives | Floor Preparation Crews, Screeders |
Applying Everflex VBS: Step-by-Step Installation
-
1. Surface Preparation
Ensure substrate is sound, clean, and free from contaminants such as oil, wax, dust, or curing agents. Substrate may be damp, but must not have standing water.
Tip: Check RH is ≤85% (ASTM F2170) before application. -
2. Mixing Components
Mix Part B (hardener) into Part A (resin) using a slow-speed mechanical stirrer. Mix for at least 3 minutes until uniform.
Mix Ratio: Follow kit ratio precisely. Do not break kits into partial batches. -
3. Apply First Coat
Apply evenly using roller, brush, or broom. Target coverage is 5–6 m²/L per coat depending on surface porosity.
Pot Life: 30–40 minutes at 25°C -
4. Apply Second Coat (Optional)
If required for high vapour pressure or additional sealing, apply a second coat once the first is touch-dry (typically 6–8 hours).
Note: Ensure cross-ventilation for faster drying if indoors. -
5. Overcoat or Install Finish
Once fully cured (minimum 24 hours), apply membranes, adhesives, levelling compounds, or flooring over VBS surface.
Cure Time: 24 hours at 25°C, 50% RH
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Do not apply over standing water or hydrostatic leaks.
Not suitable for areas with RH >85% or freshly poured concrete <7 days old.
Avoid application if ambient temperature is below 10°C or above 35°C.
Once mixed, product must be used within pot life – do not reuse hardened material.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear gloves, goggles, and protective clothing during mixing and application.
Ventilation
Use in well-ventilated areas. Avoid inhaling vapours during application and curing.
Storage & Handling
Store indoors, away from direct sunlight or frost. Keep containers sealed until use. Shelf life 12 months in unopened condition.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Flush with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical advice.
Skin:
Wash with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing.
Inhalation:
Move to fresh air. Seek medical help if irritation occurs.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical advice.
Refer to the product SDS for complete safety, disposal, and PPE instructions.
Everflex VBS Application Guide
Green or Damp Concrete
Surface Preparation
Concrete must be at least 7 days old. Remove laitance, efflorescence, and contaminants. Ensure surface is sound and has no standing water.
No primer required
Apply Everflex VBS directly in 2 coats to act as both primer and vapour barrier.
Cured Concrete or Screeds
Surface Preparation
Must be clean, dry (or ≤85% RH), and structurally stable. Remove sealers, oils, curing agents, and loose particles.
No primer required
Everflex VBS performs as a direct primer before waterproofing membranes or levelling compounds.
Fibre Cement Sheeting
Surface Preparation
Sheets must be firmly fixed. Surface should be clean, dry, and free of waxy coatings or dust.
No primer typically required
If in doubt, test a small area for adhesion. Sand lightly if necessary to ensure bonding.
Timber & Plywood (Sealed or Treated)
Surface Preparation
Use only exterior-grade boards. Ensure the underside is sealed and the top side is clean and sanded. Remove dust and contaminants.
Primer recommended
Apply a test area or consult Adheseal for primer compatibility if applying to timber surfaces.
Render & Masonry
Surface Preparation
Render must be cured and free from dust, laitance, salts, or friable particles. Clean thoroughly and dry before application.
No primer required
Apply VBS directly to clean surface in two coats for vapour barrier and primer function.
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