Gripset C-1P: A Technical Overview
Gripset C-1P is a one-component, fibre-reinforced flexible cementitious waterproof membrane engineered for demanding Australian site conditions. Formulated with graded aggregates and polymers, it delivers exceptional crack bridging and withstands up to 5 bar positive and 1.5 bar negative hydrostatic pressure. Compliant to AS4858 and potable-water approved, it provides long-term durability in both internal wet areas and external exposed environments. The product’s versatility allows application by brush, roller, trowel, or spray—over damp or green concrete—making it a reliable choice for commercial, industrial, and residential waterproofing where “Engineered Certainty” is essential.
Core Features & Specifications
- Positive and negative waterproofing capability for total structural protection
- Withstands continuous immersion without degradation
- Flexible Class 1 membrane with 37% elongation for reliable crack bridging
- Hydrostatic resistance: 5 bar positive, 1.5 bar negative with no penetration
- High adhesion to concrete, masonry, fibre cement, plasterboard, and AAC panels
- UV-resistant and suitable for exposed environments prior to tiling or covering
- Non-toxic, solvent-free, potable water approved to AS 4020
- Compliant to AS4858 for internal wet area membranes
- Compatible with polymer-modified tile adhesives, screeds, renders, and toppings
- Application temperature range: 5°C to 35°C; Service range: -20°C to +70°C
The Gripset C-1P Advantage
- Eliminates uncertainty in both positive and negative waterproofing scenarios
- Reduced downtime with recoat times as fast as 2–4 hours
- Versatile application methods ensure adaptability to site conditions
- Engineered for compliance with Australian Standards, reducing risk of inspection failure
- Suitable for green concrete, accelerating project timelines
- Potable-water safe, expanding its use to water storage and supply applications
Proactive Troubleshooting
Scenario: Applying over unprepared, contaminated surfaces
Potential Outcome: Adhesion failure, blistering, or delamination of the membrane
Adheseal Best Practice: Mechanically remove laitance, coatings, moss, or contaminants; ensure a smooth, clean substrate before priming or dampening
Scenario: Inadequate film build or missed coverage at joints
Potential Outcome: Localised leakage or premature membrane failure under pressure
Adheseal Best Practice: Apply a minimum DFT of 2mm, use a wet film gauge, and install bond breakers/joint bands as per AS 3740 & AS 4654.1
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Waterproofers (Specifier/Engineer): Deep Basement Retaining Wall Protection
The Professional's Challenge
Designing a compliant basement waterproofing system that withstands hydrostatic pressure from groundwater while maintaining crack-bridging capacity under structural movement.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Apply Gripset C-1P in a 2mm DFT over pre-dampened masonry, with Elastoproof B50 Joint Band at all junctions. Achieves 5 bar resistance with no penetration, ensuring long-term structural integrity.
Best Practice Note
Always stagger coat directions and allow proper recoat times (2–4 hours) for uniform coverage and curing.
For Tilers (On-site Applicator): Under-Tile Waterproofing in External Balconies
The Professional's Challenge
Meeting AS 4654 compliance for external wet areas while providing a substrate compatible with polymer-modified tile adhesives.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Install Gripset C-1P at 2mm DFT, fully cured before tiling with Gripset C-MASTIC or C-STONE adhesives, ensuring high bond strength and waterproofing integrity.
Best Practice Note
Ensure falls to waste are correct before application to prevent ponding water under tile finishes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gripset C-1P
Q: What is Gripset C-1P used for?
A: Gripset C-1P is a one-component, fibre-reinforced flexible cementitious waterproof membrane designed for both positive and negative waterproofing applications, including basements, retaining walls, water tanks, and wet areas.
Q: Can Gripset C-1P be used for submerged applications?
A: Yes, it is waterproof and suitable for continuously wet and immersed environments such as swimming pools and water features.
Q: What surfaces can Gripset C-1P be applied to?
A: It can be applied to concrete, masonry, compressed fibre cement sheeting, aerated concrete panels, and plasterboard.
Q: How is Gripset C-1P applied?
A: It can be applied using a trowel, roller, brush, or spray unit. A minimum of two coats is required for optimal performance.
Q: Does Gripset C-1P require a primer?
A: Yes, for porous surfaces, pre-dampening with water is required. Non-porous surfaces should be primed with Gripset OP Primer.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Basement walls – positive & negative sides | Resists up to 5 bar positive and 1.5 bar negative hydrostatic pressure, preventing water ingress in subterranean structures | Waterproofers, Builders |
| Lift pits | Durable membrane performance in continuously wet, immersed conditions | Waterproofers, Commercial Contractors |
| Retaining walls | Flexible crack bridging accommodates structural movement and soil pressure changes | Waterproofers, Landscapers |
| Planter boxes & earth shelters | Non-toxic and compatible with masonry, preventing root moisture damage | Landscapers, Builders |
| Slab edges & landscaped areas | Protects structural concrete from moisture ingress in exposed conditions | Builders, Waterproofers |
| Water features & swimming pools (tiled over) | Potable water approved to AS 4020, safe for decorative and recreational water storage | Waterproofers, Pool Builders |
| Potable water tanks & storage facilities | AS 4020 compliance ensures safe drinking water contact | Waterproofers, Civil Contractors |
| Under-tile waterproofing (internal & external) | Compliant to AS 4858 for wet area membranes, ensuring system longevity under tiles | Tilers, Waterproofers |
| Sandwich sealing between concrete toppings | Creates a moisture barrier in multi-layer concrete construction | Builders, Concrete Contractors |
| Waterproofing over blockwork where crystal systems are unsuitable | Provides reliable adhesion and flexibility on challenging substrates | Waterproofers, Remedial Contractors |
Applying Gripset C-1P: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices
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Surface Preparation
Ensure substrates are clean, sound, smooth and free from contaminants such as laitance, dust, oil, grease, curing agents, moss or algae. Fill voids, cracks (≥1 mm to 6 mm), and pitted areas with suitable repair mortar or sealant. Remove structurally unsound layers by mechanical means.
Porous Surfaces
Pre-dampen with a light water mist to saturated surface dry (SSD) condition, avoiding standing water before membrane application.
Non-Porous Surfaces
Mechanically abrade steel-trowelled or burnished concrete to open the surface, clean thoroughly, then pre-dampen or prime with Gripset OP Primer at ~1 L/10 m².
Timing: Complete preparation immediately before application to maintain surface condition.Pro Tip: Address active leaks with Gripset C-Plug before applying membrane in negative pressure conditions. -
Mixing
Mix Gripset C-1P powder with clean water using an electric stirrer with a paddle attachment. Always add powder to water to avoid lumps. Achieve a lump-free, homogenous consistency.
Roller / Brush Application
Use 4.2 L water per 15 kg bag (approx. 280 mL water/kg powder or 1:3.5 water-to-powder by volume).
Trowel Application
Use 3.0 L water per 15 kg bag (approx. 200 mL water/kg powder or 1:5 water-to-powder by volume).
Timing: Mix for 2–3 minutes, allow to stand for 2–3 minutes, then re-stir lightly before use.Pro Tip: Do not mix by hand; small batches should still be mechanically mixed for uniform performance. -
Membrane Application
Apply in a minimum of two coats (trowel) or three coats (roller) to achieve a final dry film thickness (DFT) of ≥2 mm. Apply each coat at right angles to the previous coat for uniform coverage.
Trowel
First coat ~1.5 mm WFT; second coat after recoat time to build to ≥2 mm DFT.
Roller / Brush
Three coats at ~1.0 mm WFT per coat to achieve ≥2 mm total DFT.
Timing: Recoat after 2–4 hours (23 °C/50% RH); allow 24 hours before tiling/topping.Pro Tip: Use a wet film gauge during application to confirm WFT and ensure AS 4858 compliance. -
Detailing & Bond Breakers
Pre-seal all junctions, movement zones, penetrations, and drains with the specified bond breaker system before main coats.
Option A
Embed Elastoproof B50 Joint Band into wet coat, press firmly, then overcoat to encapsulate.
Option B
Apply BRW PF Tape centrally over joint; press to remove air pockets before coating.
Timing: Complete detailing before full-field application.Pro Tip: Use prefabricated corners for faster, neater transitions. -
Curing & Service
Allow full curing before exposure to water pressure or immersion. Protect from rain during curing period.
Water Pressure
Cure minimum 7 days before positive/negative water pressure exposure.
Immersion
Cure minimum 10 days before immersion (e.g., pools, tanks).
Timing: Longer curing may be needed in cool or humid conditions.Pro Tip: Always tile over in pools/spas—do not leave as exposed finish.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Do not apply when surface or ambient temperature is below 5 °C or above 35 °C — extreme conditions can affect curing and membrane integrity.
Must not be applied when raining or if rain is imminent; protect fresh membrane from unexpected wetting.
Not to be applied over standing water; substrates must be free from ponding before coating.
When used for areas subject to rising damp or negative hydrostatic pressure, active water leaks must first be treated with Gripset C-Plug.
Not to be used as an exposed coating in swimming pools or spas — must be tiled over with compatible adhesive systems.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear chemical-resistant gloves, long sleeves, and safety eyewear to prevent skin or eye contact. Use protective footwear on active worksites.
Ventilation Requirements
Work in well-ventilated areas, especially in enclosed spaces, to avoid inhaling airborne dust during mixing and fine spray during application.
Fire & Handling Precautions
Non-flammable product. Avoid creating dust clouds near ignition sources. Store away from direct sunlight and protect from freezing temperatures.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Rinse cautiously with clean water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Skin:
Wash thoroughly with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air and rest in a position comfortable for breathing.
Swallowed:
Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical advice immediately.
Seek medical attention immediately in all cases of serious exposure.
Gripset C-1P Application Guide
Concrete (Cured)
Surface Preparation
Substrate must be clean, sound, smooth and free of laitance, dust, oil/grease, curing compounds, release agents and existing coatings. Mechanically remove weak/contaminated layers; point/patch voids and non-structural cracks before waterproofing. Allow new concrete to cure for ~28 days unless otherwise specified. Treat active leaks before negative-side work.
Primer Requirements
Pre-dampen surface or prime as required
Lightly pre-wet (no standing water) to control suction and promote adhesion. Where priming is preferred, apply a compatible primer to even porosity.
Gripset OP Primer (optional)Masonry, Render & Blockwork
Surface Preparation
Point joints flush; remove friable material. Fill holes/pitting; feather heavy undulations. Ensure surfaces are clean and free of moss/algae. Allow cement render/screeds to cure ~7 days prior to application.
Primer Requirements
Pre-dampen surface
Mist with clean water to a damp (not wet) finish prior to first coat.
Water pre-dampening (preferred) or compatible primerCompressed Fibre Cement Sheeting
Surface Preparation
Install sheets to manufacturer’s specs; ensure screw heads are flush and joints correctly detailed. Clean dust/debris; repair minor defects before membrane.
Primer Requirements
Pre-dampen surface
Dampen to SSD (saturated surface dry) to control suction prior to coating.
Water pre-dampeningPlasterboard (Wet-Area Rated)
Surface Preparation
Fix boards per code; ensure fasteners/joints are flush. Remove dust and contaminants. Detail all internal corners, sheet joints and penetrations with the specified bond breaker system before membrane application.
Primer Requirements
Primer recommended
Use a compatible primer to stabilise paper face and improve wet-edge workability if needed.
Gripset OP Primer (as required)AAC Panels & Blocks
Surface Preparation
Ensure panels are clean, sound and free from dust. Point and flush joints/voids; remove loose swarf. Pre-seal cracks and fastener penetrations as per detailing requirements.
Primer Requirements
Pre-dampen surface
Mist to SSD prior to coating; avoid free water.
Water pre-dampeningSteel-Trowelled / Burnished Concrete (Non-Porous)
Surface Preparation
Mechanically abrade to create a key profile; remove residues. Clean thoroughly, then pre-dampen prior to membrane application.
Primer Requirements
Primer recommended/required on dense finishes
Prime with an adhesion-promoting primer at ~1 L/10 m² where abrasion/keying is limited or for critical works.
Gripset OP PrimerDetailing & Bond Breakers
Surface Preparation
Detail all joints, junctions, movement zones, penetrations and drains prior to field coats. Remove loose material and ensure a smooth substrate at transitions.
Primer Requirements
As per substrate
Install nominated bond breaker system before main coats and encapsulate per instructions.
Elastoproof B50 Joint Band; BRW PF Tape; Elastoproof Collars; RLA MAX SMP 25 (non-immersed)Application Parameters (All Substrates)
Surface Preparation
Apply in 2 coats (trowel) or 3 coats (roller) to achieve ≥2 mm DFT. Change direction between coats; check WFT with a gauge. Do not apply over standing water or in rain; substrate/ambient 5–35 °C.
Primer Requirements
Per substrate
Observe recoat 2–4 hours (23 °C/50% RH). Cure 7 days before water pressure; 10 days before immersion. For tiling, use polymer-modified adhesives; for toppings, use specified bonding agents/screeds.
Gripset C-Lite / C-Mastic / C-Rubber / C-Stone (adhesives); Gripset 11Y or Gripset C-Bed (toppings)
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