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Gripset 51: A Technical Overview
Gripset 51 is a solvent-free bitumen rubber liquid membrane for below-ground and external waterproofing where dependable crack-bridging and adhesion are critical. It adheres strongly to porous and non-porous substrates (including asphalt/bitumen) and forms a 1.0 mm dried film at a total application of 1.5 L/m² over two coats. Designed for Australian conditions, it suits concrete, render, masonry, CFC sheeting, marine ply/timber, galvanised iron, zincalume and polystyrene. Use it as a membrane or as a protective coating against corrosion, rot and salt damp, and as a sound-deadening layer where needed. Apply over correctly detailed junctions using Elastoproof bands/collars, BRW PF Tape or RLA MAX SMP 25, and prime per substrate (see below) to achieve compliant, durable outcomes on site.
>500%
Elongation (Class III) for dependable crack-bridging
Core Features & Specifications
- Solvent-free, non-toxic, non-flammable—safer handling and low odour on occupied sites.
- Flexible bitumen-rubber matrix accommodates normal substrate movement to reduce risk of membrane cracking.
- Crack-bridging performance with >500% elongation and tensile strength >2 MPa for durable sealing over dynamic substrates.
- High adhesion to porous and non-porous surfaces, including asphalt/bitumen—ideal for refurbishing failed aged coatings.
- Protective barrier against corrosion, rot and salt damp on metal/timber surfaces.
- Water vapour transmission 1.2 g/m²/24 h (ASTM E96, desiccant method); water absorption 1.6% (AS 3558.1).
- Shore A hardness 52; specific gravity 1.15 kg/L.
- Application: brush or medium-nap roller; minimum 2 coats (750 µm WFT each) to achieve 1.0 mm DFT.
- Drying: recoat 2–4 h; backfilling 5 days; full cure/flood test 10 days (23 °C, 50% RH).
- Priming: porous—Gripset 51 diluted 1:3 (v/v) with water; non-porous—Gripset 51 diluted 1:1 (v/v) with water or Gripset OP Primer; damp/rising damp—Gripset E60.
- Compatible with mortar for high-/low-build tasks (see mix ratios) to accelerate drying, improve filling and efficiency.
- Packs: 5 L and 15 L pails.
The Gripset 51 Advantage
- Engineered certainty below grade—robust adhesion and Class III elongation minimise callbacks from leaks.
- Versatile system detailing—use Elastoproof bands/collars, BRW PF Tape and RLA MAX SMP 25 to build a complete, compliant junction solution.
- Refurb-friendly—bonds to aged bitumen/asphalt for efficient remedial works without full demolition.
- Safer, cleaner jobs—solvent-free formulation suits occupied buildings and enclosed spaces with appropriate ventilation.
- Practical productivity—clear film-build targets (WFT/DFT) and recoat windows streamline QA and scheduling.
Proactive Troubleshooting
Scenario: Applying over damp or moisture-laden substrates
Potential Outcome: Extended cure times, blistering or loss of adhesion.
Best Practice: For residual moisture >80% RH (ASTM F2170) or ~5% MC (ASTM F2659), prime with Gripset E60 prior to Gripset 51. Verify moisture, then proceed with two-coat system at 750 µm WFT per coat.
Scenario: Insufficient film build or missed junction detailing
Potential Outcome: Pinholing, weak points at corners/penetrations and water ingress.
Best Practice: Gauge every coat with a wet-film comb to 750 µm. Pre-detail all joints, corners and penetrations with Elastoproof B50 Joint Band/Collars or BRW PF Tape, or form fillets with RLA MAX SMP 25.
Scenario: UV exposure on long-term exposed areas
Potential Outcome: Surface crazing with prolonged UV.
Best Practice: Limit to below-ground/external covered applications or overcoat/cover as per project design. Do not use as a trafficable or finished surface.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Waterproofers (On-site Applicator): External retaining wall
The Professional's Challenge
Deliver a durable, flexible membrane on a new concrete retaining wall, with reliable adhesion, compliant detailing and clear QA targets before backfilling.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Prepare substrate; cure concrete 28 days and make sound/clean. Prime porous concrete with Gripset 51 (1:3 water). Detail all junctions with Elastoproof B50 and Collars. Apply two coats Gripset 51 at 750 µm WFT each (target 1.0 mm DFT total, ~1.5 L/m²). Recoat after 2–4 h. Backfill after 5 days; full cure 10 days.
Best Practice Note
Run wet-film gauge checks every 10–15 m² and after breaks. Stagger coat directions (vertical then horizontal) for uniform coverage.
For Builders (Business Owner-Operator): Planter boxes & garden beds
The Professional's Challenge
Control costs and avoid rework by waterproofing blockwork planters that have variable porosity and movement at floor/wall junctions.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Prime porous masonry (1:3). Form 25–35 mm coved fillets using Gripset 51-mortar (1:1 with 3:1 sand:cement) at junctions. Detail with Elastoproof B50. Apply two coats at 750 µm WFT. Allow 10 days cure before sustained moisture exposure.
Best Practice Note
Use the low-build blend (3:1 Gripset 51:mortar) as a base pass in cool conditions to aid drying and improve coverage efficiency on porous blockwork.
For Remedial Specialists (On-site Applicator): Gutter & asphalt coating repairs
The Professional's Challenge
Restore failed aged bitumen coatings without full strip-out, ensuring immediate adhesion and flexible bridging over hairline cracking.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Clean thoroughly; remove loose/unsound material. Prime per substrate (often 1:1 on non-absorbent). Seal cracks ≥1–6 mm with RLA MAX SMP 25 and reinforce with Elastoproof B50 or BRW PF Tape. Apply Gripset 51 in two coats at 750 µm WFT each.
Best Practice Note
Stitch-roll tapes from the centre out to expel air. Do not finish as an exposed, trafficable surface; over-cover as per project design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Gripset 51 be used for permanently exposed applications?
No. Gripset 51 is designed for below-ground and covered external use. Long-term UV exposure may cause surface crazing. For exposed areas, overcoat or protect with a suitable finish.
What is the correct film thickness for Gripset 51?
Apply a minimum of two coats at 750 µm wet film thickness (WFT) each, achieving a total dry film thickness (DFT) of 1.0 mm. Always verify using a wet film gauge during application.
Which primer should I use before applying Gripset 51?
For porous surfaces, dilute Gripset 51 1:3 with water. For non-porous surfaces, dilute Gripset 51 1:1 with water or use Gripset OP Primer. For damp/rising damp conditions, use Gripset E60.
Can Gripset 51 be mixed with mortar?
Yes. For high build, mix Gripset 51 with mortar at 1:1 ratio. For low build, mix at 3:1 (Gripset 51:mortar). This enhances filling properties and can accelerate drying in cooler conditions.
Is Gripset 51 safe to use indoors?
Yes. It is solvent-free, non-toxic, and non-flammable. Always ensure adequate ventilation during application and curing, especially in enclosed spaces.
Can Gripset 51 be tiled or rendered over directly?
No. Gripset 51 is not designed to be finished directly with tiles, renders, screeds, or paints. Apply a compatible over-surface system as per project specifications.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Retaining walls & underground surfaces | Provides a flexible, crack-bridging membrane that resists continuous damp conditions and protects against water ingress. | Waterproofers, Builders |
| External cellar & basement walls | Forms a continuous 1.0 mm DFT barrier for long-term moisture protection in subterranean environments. | Waterproofers, Builders |
| Planter boxes & garden beds (external) | Resists root moisture penetration; compatible with mortar fillets for wall/floor junctions. | Builders, Landscapers |
| Gutter repairs | Adheres to aged bitumen/asphalt for efficient remedial sealing without full strip-out. | Roofers, Maintenance Contractors |
| Protective coating on metal/timber | Prevents corrosion, rot and salt damp, extending service life of exposed building components. | Builders, Carpenters, Asset Maintenance |
| Repairs to aged asphalt/bitumen coatings | Restores integrity and extends lifespan of existing waterproofing systems. | Remedial Specialists, Maintenance Contractors |
Applying Gripset 51: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices
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Surface Preparation
Substrates must be clean, sound, smooth and dry; free from dust, oil/grease, wax, laitance, curing agents, release agents, moss/algae, loose coatings and sharp protrusions. Concrete must cure ≥28 days; cement render/screeds ≥7 days. Patch voids, pitting and non-structural cracks with compatible repair mortars.
Mechanical Cleaning
Grind, shot-blast or abrade to remove weak layers and contaminants; vacuum thoroughly.
Wash & Dry
Degrease where required, rinse, then allow to dry. Ensure no standing water before priming.
Timing: Only proceed when substrates meet curing times and are visibly dry.Pro Tip: Moisture test suspect slabs; for >80% RH or ~5% MC use Gripset E60 before Gripset 51. -
Priming (by Substrate)
Prime the entire application area before membrane installation.
Porous/Absorbent
Dilute Gripset 51 at 1:3 (v/v) with clean water; mix to a smooth, homogeneous consistency. Apply liberally by brush/roller.
Non-Porous/Non-Absorbent
Dilute Gripset 51 at 1:1 (v/v) with water and apply, or use Gripset OP Primer as an alternative.
Damp or Rising Damp
Apply Gripset E60 at 1–2 coats (≈1 L/3 m² per coat) over mineral substrates with residual moisture or subject to rising damp.
Timing: Allow primers to dry per their data before proceeding.Pro Tip: Prime to the full extents of the waterproofing zone to maintain continuity. -
Detailing & Bond Breakers
Pre-detail all joints, junctions, movement zones, penetrations, drains and cracks before field coating.
Joint Transitions (AS 3740 / AS 4654.1)
Option A: Embed Elastoproof B50 Joint Band into a wet coat of Gripset 51, then fully encapsulate. Corners: use prefabricated Elastoproof corners.
Alternative Taping
Option B: Apply BRW PF Tape centrally over joints; roll firmly to expel air and creases.
Sealant Fillet
Option C: Tool a continuous fillet using RLA MAX SMP 25 at floor/wall and horizontal/vertical transitions.
Pipes & Penetrations
Fit Elastoproof Collars into a wet coat; or form flanges with BRW PF Tape; or seal with RLA MAX SMP 25 and reinforce.
Static Cracks (≥1–6 mm)
Clean, fill with RLA MAX SMP 25, then overlay with Elastoproof B50/BRW PF Tape/RLA Waterproofing Bandage.
Timing: Allow sealants/tapes to settle per their guidance before coating.Pro Tip: Stitch-roll from centre out to remove trapped air under tapes. -
Optional: Mixing Gripset 51 with Mortar
Use blends to create fillets, fill voids, level rough asphalt/bitumen, or assist drying/coverage in cooler conditions.
High-Build Blend
Mortar: 3 parts sand : 1 part cement (by volume). Pre-wet to a workable mortar, then mix 1:1 (Gripset 51 : mortar) with an electric stirrer. Trowel/spatula to thickness.
Low-Build Blend
Use the same 3:1 sand:cement mortar. Pre-wet, then blend 3:1 (Gripset 51 : mortar). Apply by brush/roller at specified coverage.
Timing: Mix only what you can place immediately; blends cannot be stored.Pro Tip: Use high-build at junctions (25–35 mm coves) and low-build as a base pass on porous blockwork in cool weather. -
Membrane Application
Apply Gripset 51 by brush or medium nap roller in two coats.
Coat 1
Apply at 750 µm wet film thickness (WFT). Work methodically; maintain uniform coverage.
Coat 2
Recoat after 2–4 hours (at 23 °C, 50% RH). Apply at 750 µm WFT perpendicular to the first coat. Target total DFT ≈1.0 mm (≈1.5 L/m² total).
Timing: Backfilling after 5 days. Full cure / flood test after 10 days (23 °C, 50% RH). Cooler or humid conditions extend times.Pro Tip: Use a wet-film gauge every 10–15 m² to verify 750 µm WFT each coat. -
Clean-Up & Storage
Clean tools with water while wet. Dried product requires mechanical removal. Store sealed pails out of direct sun at room temperature; avoid freezing.
Timing: Seal pails immediately after use to preserve remaining material.Pro Tip: Plan batch sizes to minimise open time and skinning in warm weather. -
On-Site QA Checks
Record substrate condition, primer used, tape/band details, WFT readings per coat, recoat intervals and weather conditions.
Film-Build Verification
WFT gauge readings logged by area; confirm target DFT ≈1.0 mm and coverage ≈1.5 L/m².
Cure Milestones
Confirm minimum 5 days before backfill and 10 days before flood testing at 23 °C/50% RH.
Pro Tip: Stagger coat directions (vertical/horizontal) for uniformity and easier visual QA.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Not to be used as a trafficable coating; over-cover or protect in service.
Not designed for direct finishing with tiles, renders, screeds, paints, or other surface finishes.
Do not apply where rain is imminent or onto wet surfaces without correct damp substrate primer (Gripset E60).
Not for immersed applications or areas subject to negative hydrostatic pressure.
Do not apply over glass, glazed surfaces, or raw steel substrates.
Not intended as a sealant for expansion or control joints; use compatible sealants.
Do not apply when surface temperature is below 5 °C or above 35 °C.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear protective gloves (nitrile or neoprene), safety glasses or goggles, and protective clothing to prevent skin contact. Avoid prolonged exposure to wet product.
Ventilation Requirements
Although solvent-free, ensure adequate ventilation in enclosed areas to control humidity and assist drying. Use fans or mechanical ventilation if necessary.
Fire & Handling Precautions
Non-flammable. Keep away from heat sources to maintain product integrity. Store sealed pails away from direct sunlight and freezing conditions.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing and seek medical advice if irritation persists.
Skin:
Wash with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air and rest in a comfortable breathing position. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
Swallowed:
Rinse mouth with water. Do NOT induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention.
Seek medical attention immediately in all cases of serious exposure.
Gripset 51 Application Guide
Concrete, Render & Masonry
Surface Preparation
Ensure surface is clean, sound, dry, and free from contaminants, laitance, curing compounds, moss, algae, and loose particles. Cure concrete for at least 28 days; render/screeds for at least 7 days. Fill voids and cracks with compatible repair mortar.
Primer Requirements
Primer required for optimal adhesion
Prime with Gripset 51 diluted 1:3 (v/v) with clean water and apply liberally by brush or roller.
Gripset 51 (diluted)Compressed Fibre Cement (CFC) Sheeting
Surface Preparation
Sheets must be fixed in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations. Ensure joints are flush and surface is clean, dry, and free of dust and loose materials.
Primer Requirements
Primer required for optimal adhesion
Prime with Gripset 51 diluted 1:3 (v/v) with clean water before membrane application.
Gripset 51 (diluted)Marine Ply, Timber Sheeting & Timber Posts
Surface Preparation
Ensure timber is clean, dry, structurally sound, and free from oils, stains, and surface coatings. Sand smooth and remove dust before priming.
Primer Requirements
Primer required for critical applications
Prime with Gripset 51 diluted 1:3 (v/v) with water.
Gripset 51 (diluted)Galvanised Iron & Zincalume (not raw steel)
Surface Preparation
Remove all surface oxidation, dirt, oil, and contaminants. Use a suitable degreaser, rinse, and dry thoroughly before priming.
Primer Requirements
Primer required for non-porous surfaces
Prime with Gripset 51 diluted 1:1 (v/v) with water, or apply Gripset OP Primer.
Gripset OP PrimerAsphalt & Bituminous Substrates
Surface Preparation
Remove all loose or unsound material and thoroughly clean surface. Ensure no standing water before priming.
Primer Requirements
Primer required for non-porous surfaces
Prime with Gripset 51 diluted 1:1 (v/v) with water for best adhesion.
Gripset 51 (diluted)Polystyrene
Surface Preparation
Ensure panels are securely fixed and surface is clean, dry, and free from dust or debris.
Primer Requirements
Primer optional for sound, clean surfaces
Prime with Gripset 51 diluted 1:3 (v/v) with water if additional adhesion is desired.
Gripset 51 (diluted)
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