Gripset C-Bed: A Technical Overview
Gripset C-Bed is a high-performance, polymer-modified mortar screed specifically formulated for use under tile and stone finishes. With excellent workability, high early strength gain, and flexible curing properties, it is suitable for both bonded and unbonded applications over a variety of substrates. It is ideal for use over waterproofing membranes or where a moisture-tolerant base is required. Trafficable within 24 hours, C-Bed provides a reliable and compatible screed system for fast-turnaround tiling installations.
Core Features & Specifications
- Polymer-modified cementitious screed for high adhesion and flexibility
- Trafficable in 24 hours under normal conditions
- Shrinkage-compensated – reduces cracking in thick screed beds
- Compatible with waterproofing membranes and adhesives
- Suitable for both bonded and unbonded applications
- Ideal for bathrooms, balconies, rooftop decks, and external tiled areas
- Extended pot life allows larger area installation without rapid setup
- Pre-blended – just add water on site
The Gripset C-Bed Advantage
- Reduces shrinkage-related failures under tiles and stone
- No need for site-added polymers or additives
- Formulated for Australian conditions – interior or exterior use
- Compatible with Gripset waterproofing systems for full membrane integration
- Excellent workability for screed shaping, falls to waste, or ramping
Proactive Troubleshooting
Scenario: Applying over uncured or damp substrate without primer
Potential Outcome: Reduced adhesion, efflorescence, or screed lifting.
Adheseal Best Practice: Prime with Gripset GP, E60, or OP depending on moisture levels. Ensure substrate is sound and clean before application.
Scenario: Screed applied too thick in a single pour without control joints
Potential Outcome: Cracking, hollow spots, or delamination over time.
Adheseal Best Practice: For screeds over 40mm, apply in layers or allow drying breaks. Install control joints as per standard tiling practice.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Tilers: Screeding over waterproofed balconies and decks
The Professional's Challenge
Traditional screeds may compromise membrane integrity or cause shrinkage cracks over large outdoor areas.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Gripset C-Bed offers high bond and flexibility, reducing movement and ensuring compatibility with Gripset membranes. Perfect for creating falls to drainage.
Best Practice Note
Ensure the membrane is fully cured before application. Use bond breaker or slip sheet where movement joints are required.
For Builders: Wet area screeds prior to membrane and tiling
The Professional's Challenge
Wet areas require fall-to-waste screeds that don’t delay the program or interfere with membrane curing timelines.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Gripset C-Bed enables early traffic and fast curing with a polymer-modified formulation designed for membrane compatibility.
Best Practice Note
Install membrane 24–48 hours after screed cure. Prime with Gripset GP or E60 for optimal bonding to the cured screed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Gripset C-Bed be applied over waterproofing membranes?
Yes. C-Bed is compatible with Gripset membranes once they have fully cured. Use only as a topping screed when membranes are designed to receive trafficable finishes.
How soon can I tile over Gripset C-Bed?
Generally after 24 hours under normal drying conditions. Always confirm surface hardness and moisture before tiling, especially for thick screeds.
Is C-Bed suitable for external screeds?
Yes. It is weather-resistant and ideal for balconies, terraces, and other outdoor tiled areas when correctly applied over primed substrates or waterproofing membranes.
Can I use this in bonded and unbonded systems?
Yes. C-Bed can be used in both configurations. For bonded screeds, apply over primed substrate. For unbonded screeds, install over a slip sheet or separation layer.
Do I need to add any additives or polymers on site?
No. Gripset C-Bed is a pre-blended polymer-modified mortar. Only clean water needs to be added on site according to mixing instructions.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Bonded Screed in Internal Wet Areas | High bond to primed concrete with shrinkage control and membrane compatibility | Tilers, Waterproofers |
| Screed Over External Balconies or Rooftops | Polymer-modified and weather-stable for long-term external use | Builders, Tilers |
| Screed Base Over Waterproof Membranes | Safe for use on cured Gripset membranes – won’t compromise waterproofing | Waterproofers |
| Creating Falls to Drain or Ramp Access | Excellent workability for shaping screed profiles and angles | Tilers, Renovation Trades |
| Unbonded Screed with Slip Sheet Isolation | Suitable for movement-prone floors using unbonded systems | Builders |
| Commercial Bathroom and Amenities Fitouts | Fast set time and durable base for early tiling in high-traffic projects | Commercial Fitout Contractors |
Applying Gripset C-Bed: Step-by-Step
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1. Substrate Preparation
Ensure the substrate is clean, dry (unless using E60), and free from laitance, dust, grease, or curing agents. Prime as required with Gripset GP or E60 for enhanced bond strength.
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2. Mixing
Mix Gripset C-Bed with clean potable water using a mechanical mixer. Add 3.5–4.0L of water per 20kg bag. Mix for 3–5 minutes until a consistent, semi-dry mix is achieved.
Pro Tip: Do not overwater. The correct mix should hold shape when formed by hand but remain workable for up to 60 minutes. -
3. Placement & Screeding
Spread the mix onto the prepared substrate. Use screed rails, straight edges, or float tools to level and compact the material to desired thickness (10–100mm).
Pro Tip: Form falls to waste or drainage points as required. Allow for expansion joints over large areas. -
4. Curing & Tiling
Allow Gripset C-Bed to cure for at least 24 hours before tiling. For bonded systems, confirm adequate surface hardness. Avoid over-watering or early exposure to rain.
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5. Membrane or Adhesive Application
Apply waterproofing membrane or tile adhesive after verifying full screed cure. Prime again if screed is dusty or exposed for extended periods.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Not suitable as a wearing surface – must be tiled or coated with appropriate finish.
Do not apply over flexible, soft, or movement-prone substrates (e.g. particleboard, vinyl).
Avoid application in temperatures below 5°C or above 35°C. Protect from rain during cure.
Screed beds over 100mm may require layered installation or reinforcement to prevent shrinkage stress.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear gloves and safety goggles during mixing and application. Avoid direct skin contact with wet mortar.
Ventilation Requirements
Use in well-ventilated areas. Avoid breathing dust when handling dry powder. Wear a P2 mask if dusty conditions exist.
Storage & Disposal
Store in a dry area off concrete floors. Dispose of leftover material in accordance with local regulations. Do not wash into stormwater drains.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Flush immediately with clean water for 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Skin:
Wash thoroughly with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air. Seek medical advice if symptoms occur.
Swallowed:
Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Contact medical services immediately.
Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for full handling and safety instructions.
Gripset C-Bed Application Guide
Concrete
Surface Preparation
Ensure concrete is fully cured (min. 28 days), structurally sound, and free from dust, laitance, and contaminants.
Primer Requirements
Primer required for bonded applications
Use Gripset GP or Gripset E60 depending on surface moisture. Dilute GP with water 2:1 for porous concrete.
Gripset GP / Gripset E60Cement Sheeting / Fibre Cement
Surface Preparation
Secure sheets as per manufacturer guidelines. Remove dust, laitance, and ensure no surface coatings remain.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Use Gripset GP primer undiluted to promote adhesion of C-Bed screed.
Gripset GPWaterproofing Membranes
Surface Preparation
Ensure membrane is fully cured and clean. Avoid installing screed over uncured or incompatible membranes.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Apply Gripset GP or E60 over the cured membrane to allow direct screed bonding.
Gripset GP / E60Tiled or Sealed Surfaces
Surface Preparation
Mechanically abrade or scabble to remove gloss. Clean thoroughly with degreaser and rinse well.
Primer Requirements
Primer optional but recommended
Use Gripset OP primer to improve adhesion over difficult or smooth substrates.
Gripset OP
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