Gripset BRW PFN: A Technical Overview
Gripset BRW PFN is a self-adhesive butyl rubber sheet membrane with a fabric face engineered for high-performance floor waterproofing. It delivers instant, high-tack adhesion, anti-fracture protection, and a reliable vapour barrier for both internal and external wet areas. Cold-applied (no torching), primer-less on many non-porous surfaces, and fully compatible with Gripset liquid membranes to create hybrid systems at junctions and critical details.
−30 °C to +80 °C
Service temperature range
Core Features & Specifications
- Self-adhesive butyl sheet with non-woven fabric face — ready for direct tiling/screeds.
- Cold-lay application — no heating, torching or welding.
- High tack; primer-less on many metals, plastics and glazed surfaces when sound and clean.
- Anti-fracture layer helps isolate substrate cracks and movement from finishes.
- Excellent waterproof and vapour-resistant properties (WVT ~0.1 g/m²/24 h).
- Hybrid system ready — complements Gripset liquid membranes at perimeters and details.
- Sheet thickness: 1 mm; Roll size: 10 m × 1 m.
- Complies with AS 4858 and AS 4654.1 for internal and external wet areas.
- Recommended application temperature: +5 °C to +30 °C; Service: −30 °C to +80 °C.
- Compatible with polymer-modified cement tile adhesives; toppings with Gripset 11Y/C-Bed systems.
The Gripset BRW PFN Advantage
- Fast, clean installs — immediate stick reduces downtime and labour.
- Reduced risk at details — pair with Gripset liquid membranes for robust hybrid junctions.
- Crack-stress relief — anti-fracture performance protects tile and topping finishes.
- No solvent primers — safer application in confined or occupied areas.
- Standards-aligned — helps projects meet Australian wet-area waterproofing requirements.
Proactive Troubleshooting
Scenario: Skipping primer on porous substrates
Potential Outcome: Reduced bond or edge lift on absorbent screeds/concrete.
Best Practice: Prime porosity correctly (GP Primer ~1 L/8–10 m²). Use OP Primer (~1 L/12 m²) on dense/non-absorbent mineral surfaces.
Scenario: Insufficient overlaps or unsealed seams
Potential Outcome: Moisture tracking at joins.
Best Practice: Maintain ≥50 mm overlaps; roll firmly; over-coat all overlaps with a 100 mm band of suitable Gripset liquid membrane.
Scenario: Laying from the high point on graded decks
Potential Outcome: Counter-gradient laps that impede drainage.
Best Practice: Start at the lowest point near the drain and work upslope so laps shed water.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Waterproofers (On-site Installer): Balcony & Terrace Floors
The Professional's Challenge
Deliver a compliant external wet-area system that manages movement and sheds water efficiently on graded substrates.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Prime correctly (E60 on green/damp/external floors at ~1 L/3 m²/coat). Start laying at the drain and work upslope with ≥50 mm overlaps; roll seams. Over-band seams with a suitable Gripset liquid membrane (100 mm). Finish with polymer-modified tile adhesive.
Best Practice Note
Protect sheet edges at exposed terminations with BRW PF Tape or Waterproof Bandage before liquid over-banding.
For Tilers: Internal Wet-Area Floors
The Professional's Challenge
Achieve a fast, clean under-tile waterproof layer that isolates cracks and meets inspection benchmarks.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
On absorbent screeds, use GP Primer; roll out BRW PFN with straight runs and ≥50 mm overlaps. Over-band seams with Gripset liquid membrane; tile using polymer-modified adhesive (e.g., C-LITE, C-MASTIC, C-RUBBER).
Best Practice Note
Use prefabricated collars/tape at penetrations; seal and over-band to integrate with the sheet plane.
For Remedial Contractors: Anti-Fracture Over Cracked Concrete
The Professional's Challenge
Bridge non-structural cracks and limit telegraphing into new finishes without extensive demolition.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Prepare substrate; prime to suit porosity. Lay BRW PFN with straight runs across crack lines; maintain ≥50 mm overlaps and over-band seams with Gripset liquid membrane. Finish with polymer-modified adhesive or engineered screed (C-Bed) with 11Y as specified.
Best Practice Note
Respect expansion joints — do not bridge with sheet; treat as movement joints in the finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to use a primer with Gripset BRW PFN?
On many clean, sound, non-porous surfaces such as metals, plastics, and glazed tiles, no primer is required. For porous or dusty surfaces, use Gripset GP Primer or OP Primer to improve adhesion. On damp or green screeds/concrete, use Gripset E60.
Can Gripset BRW PFN be used externally?
Yes. It complies with AS 4654.1 for external above-ground waterproofing and is suitable for balconies, podiums, terraces, and decks. Protect from prolonged UV exposure by finishing with tiles, screeds, or toppings.
What tile adhesives are compatible?
Use polymer-modified cement-based adhesives such as Gripset C-LITE, C-MASTIC, or C-RUBBER. For toppings or screeds, use Gripset C-Bed with 11Y Additive.
How do I seal overlaps and joints?
Maintain a minimum 50 mm overlap. Firmly roll the seam, then over-band with a 100 mm wide strip of Gripset liquid membrane (e.g., BRW-HD, 38FC) to ensure watertightness.
Can it be used for anti-fracture purposes?
Yes. Gripset BRW PFN provides an anti-fracture layer that isolates non-structural substrate cracks (up to 3 mm wide) from tiled or topped finishes, reducing crack telegraphing.
What is the service temperature range?
It performs reliably from −30 °C to +80 °C, making it suitable for both cold and hot climate applications.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Bathrooms & Wet Area Floors | Direct-tiling surface speeds up installation with no waiting for curing | Tilers, Waterproofers |
| Balconies & Terraces (Under Tiling) | Crack-bridging and anti-fracture performance protects tile finishes | Builders, Waterproofers |
| Shower Bases & Floor Waste Areas | Can be detailed with fleece tape or hybrid systems for perfect seals | Waterproofers, Bathroom Fitters |
| Remedial Waterproofing Projects | Cold-applied, fast turnaround solution for urgent retrofit jobs | Remedial Contractors |
| Flooring Over Timber & FC Sheeting | Adheres securely with flexible bond – eliminates need for wet membranes | Flooring Installers, Carpenters |
| Hybrid Systems with Liquid Membranes | Use in combination with Gripset 38FC or 2P for high-stress detailing | Waterproofers, Architects |
How to Install Gripset BRW PFN
-
Step 1: Surface Prep
Clean substrate of all dust, debris, oil, or laitance. Remove loose particles and ensure surface is smooth and dry. Repair voids or cracks if present.
Pro Tip: Use a broom, vacuum, or grinder depending on substrate condition. No primer is needed on non-porous surfaces. -
Step 2: Priming (If Required)
Apply Gripset GP Primer to porous or dusty substrates. Allow primer to dry completely (typically 20–40 minutes) before laying membrane.
Pro Tip: On clean non-porous surfaces like tiles or metals, skip priming to save time. -
Step 3: Membrane Installation
Unroll PFN and cut to length. Position fleece side upward. Peel back 300–500mm of release film, align sheet, and press down with firm pressure. Gradually peel and apply in sections, smoothing as you go.
Tool:
Vinyl hand roller or flat trowel to eliminate air pockets.
Pro Tip: Work from the centre outward and always overlap edges correctly for watertight seals. -
Step 4: Joins, Edges & Detailing
Overlap sheets by 50mm at sides. For end joints or internal corners, use Gripset BRW FG Tape. Ensure full contact by rolling all overlaps firmly. Detail around drains and fixtures using fleece-backed tape or BRW TAPE.
Pro Tip: Heat gun can be used at low setting to soften tape and improve adhesion in cold weather.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Not UV-stable – membrane must be protected by tiles, screed, topping or compatible finishes. Prolonged sun exposure may degrade fleece surface.
Not trafficable. Avoid walking directly on the membrane after application unless covered with temporary sheeting.
Not designed for use over structural movement joints. Use expansion detailing systems where movement is expected.
Do not stretch membrane during installation. Ensure sheets are laid flat without tension to prevent edge lifting or bond failure.
Not suitable for negative-side waterproofing (e.g. retaining walls from internal face).
Safety & Handling Requirements
PPE & Personal Protection
Wear gloves and safety glasses when handling. Avoid prolonged skin contact with butyl surface. Wash hands after installation.
Ventilation & Storage
Use in ventilated areas. Product is solvent-free but may emit slight butyl odour. Store rolls vertically in dry, covered area below 35°C.
Fire & Environmental
Classified as non-flammable. Dispose of packaging and offcuts according to local waste management regulations.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
If contact occurs, rinse with water for 15 minutes and seek medical advice if irritation persists.
Skin:
Wash with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing and avoid re-use until clean.
Inhalation:
Move to fresh air. If discomfort continues, consult medical personnel.
Ingestion:
Not expected due to solid form. If ingested, rinse mouth and seek medical attention.
Gripset BRW PFN: Substrate Preparation & Priming Guide
Concrete
Surface Preparation
Ensure surface is cured (minimum 28 days), dry, clean, and free of laitance or dust. Remove any contaminants or coatings. Fill voids or defects with suitable repair mortars.
Primer Requirements
Primer optional on dry, sound surfaces
Use Gripset GP Primer if surface is porous, dusty, or to stabilise weak screeds.
Optional: Gripset GP PrimerCompressed Fibre Cement Sheeting
Surface Preparation
Sheets must be fixed correctly and flat. Clean and dry surface free of debris. Seal all screw heads, joints, and corners with detailing tape or Gripset liquid membrane.
Primer Requirements
Primer optional
Apply Gripset GP Primer to reduce surface absorption if sheeting is very dry or chalky.
Optional: Gripset GP PrimerGlazed Tiles & Ceramics
Surface Preparation
Ensure tiles are well bonded and clean. Degrease using a tile cleaner or solvent wipe. Surface must be dry and free from wax or polish.
Primer Requirements
No primer required
Self-adhesive butyl backing bonds directly to clean glazed surfaces. No primer needed if clean and dry.
NoneMetal Surfaces
Surface Preparation
Clean off any rust, grease, or oxidation. Wipe with solvent or degreaser. Surface should be dry, stable, and non-flaking.
Primer Requirements
No primer required
Apply membrane directly if clean. Optional use of Gripset OP Primer for highly polished or coated metals.
Optional: Gripset OP PrimerPlastic, PVC & Acrylic Surfaces
Surface Preparation
Ensure surface is clean and dry. Use solvent wipe if needed. Light abrasion improves key on smooth plastic films.
Primer Requirements
No primer required
Self-adhesive backing will bond to most clean plastic/DPC surfaces without primer.
NoneTimber & Particleboard Flooring
Surface Preparation
Ensure substrate is dry, stable, and well fixed. Check for deflection. Sand back contaminants or old coatings. Seal joints if required.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Use Gripset GP Primer to stabilise the surface and improve bond strength on timber sheeting.
Gripset GP Primer
- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.