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Gripset C-Mastic: A Technical Overview
Gripset C-Mastic is a premium-grade, white polymer-modified tile adhesive, purpose-engineered for high-performance tiling applications across a range of challenging environments. Its respirable silica-free composition enhances on-site safety while maintaining exceptional mastic properties, providing superior workability and reliable non-slump behaviour. Compliant with C2S1TE classification under ISO 13007, it delivers outstanding tensile adhesion strength in dry, wet, and freeze/thaw conditions. Suitable for use over early age concrete, render, screeds, and Gripset waterproofing membranes, it ensures dependable performance for large format tiles, porcelain, mosaics, and non-moisture-sensitive natural stone. Its balanced open time and adjustment period allow precise placement, while its 1MPa adhesion rating guarantees a robust bond in both dry and immersed applications.
Core Features & Specifications
- Respirable silica-free formulation for improved job site safety.
- White adhesive finish ideal for light-coloured or translucent tiles.
- Non-slump performance ensures large format tiles stay in place without sagging.
- Complies with C2S1TE classification, delivering ≥1MPa tensile adhesion in multiple conditions.
- Versatile substrate compatibility, including Gripset waterproofing membranes.
- Extended open time of 30 minutes and 40-minute adjustment period for precision placement.
- Pot life of 1 hour for efficient batch use without waste.
- Approximately 7m² coverage with a 10mm notched trowel.
The Gripset C-Mastic Advantage
- Enhanced workability reduces applicator fatigue and improves efficiency.
- Suitable for demanding environments including pools, wet areas, and exposed exterior tiling.
- Optimised for large format tiles to achieve full coverage and adhesion.
- Compatible with Australian Standards AS 3958 for tiling best practice.
- Reliable performance over early age concrete helps fast-track project timelines.
- Long-term bond strength minimises call-backs and maintenance costs.
Proactive Troubleshooting
Scenario: Applying over dusty or contaminated surfaces
Potential Outcome: Bond failure or tile delamination under load or moisture exposure.
Adheseal Best Practice: Ensure surfaces are clean, dry, and free from dust, oil, and residues. Mechanically abrade dense concrete or prime with Gripset OP Primer for optimal adhesion.
Scenario: Tiling in hot, windy conditions without adjusting application rate
Potential Outcome: Premature skinning of adhesive leading to reduced bond strength.
Adheseal Best Practice: Limit adhesive spread to 1m² at a time in high-heat conditions, ensuring tiles are bedded into fresh adhesive before skin formation.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Tilers (On-Site Applicator): Large Format Pool Surrounds
The Professional's Challenge
Achieving a strong, void-free bond in immersed areas where thermal cycling and water exposure can compromise adhesion.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Gripset C-Mastic delivers ≥1MPa tensile adhesion in wet service, ensuring durable bonding for pool surrounds. Back-buttering tiles >300×300mm guarantees full coverage and eliminates water-tracking voids.
Best Practice Note
In high-humidity pool environments, allow a minimum of 7 days before immersion to ensure complete curing.
For Builders (Business Owner/Operator): Early Age Concrete Tiling
The Professional's Challenge
Tight project timelines requiring tiling over young concrete without compromising structural adhesion.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Formulated for compatibility with early age concrete (≥7 days cure), C-Mastic enables faster progression to finishing stages without bond failure risk.
Best Practice Note
Confirm a compressive strength of ≥20MPa before application and prime with Gripset GP Primer where porosity is high.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Gripset C-Mastic be used for pool tiling?
Yes, Gripset C-Mastic is suitable for immersed applications such as pools and surrounds. Ensure a full bed of adhesive with back-buttering for tiles larger than 300×300mm, and allow 7 days curing before immersion.
What primers should I use with Gripset C-Mastic?
For porous surfaces, use Gripset GP Primer at 1L per 8–10m². For non-porous surfaces, use Gripset OP Primer at 1L per 12m². Always follow primer TDS for application details.
How long before I can grout over Gripset C-Mastic?
Grouting can commence after 24 hours at 20°C once the adhesive has cured sufficiently to hold the tiles without displacement. Cooler or more humid conditions may extend this time.
Is Gripset C-Mastic suitable for large format tiles?
Yes, its non-slump properties make it ideal for large format tiles. For sizes over 300×300mm, back-butter tiles and use an appropriately sized notch trowel to achieve full coverage.
Can I apply Gripset C-Mastic over existing tiles?
Yes, provided the existing tiles are sound and secure. Mechanically abrade the surface to remove at least 80% of the glaze or prime with Gripset OP Primer before application.
What is the pot life of Gripset C-Mastic?
The pot life is approximately 1 hour at 23°C. Only mix what can be used within this timeframe to maintain optimal workability and bond strength.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Large format tile installation | Non-slump performance keeps tiles in place without sagging, ensuring precise alignment. | Tilers, Builders |
| Internal & external wall and floor tiling | Versatile polymer-modified formula delivers strong adhesion in varied environments. | Tilers, Builders, Renovators |
| Immersed areas (pools & surrounds) | ≥1MPa tensile adhesion in wet conditions for long-term durability under immersion. | Tilers, Pool Builders |
| Tiling over early age concrete | Compatible with 7-day cured concrete, reducing project delays and downtime. | Builders, Tilers |
| Porcelain, mosaic & non-moisture-sensitive stone | High bond strength across diverse tile materials ensures reliable results. | Tilers, Stone Installers |
| Installation over Gripset waterproofing membranes | System compatibility ensures adhesion without additional primers in most cases. | Waterproofers, Tilers |
Applying Gripset C-Mastic: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices
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Surface Preparation
Ensure substrates are clean, sound, smooth, dry, and free from contaminants such as dust, oil, grease, curing compounds, or laitance. Mechanically remove unsound layers or contaminants. Follow specific substrate preparation requirements in the adhesion guide.
Method 1 – Mechanical Abrasion
For dense or steel-trowelled concrete, mechanically abrade using a grinder or abrasive blast to create a textured key.
Method 2 – Priming
Prime porous substrates with Gripset GP Primer and non-porous surfaces with Gripset OP Primer as per coverage rates.
Timing: Allow concrete to cure at least 7 days (20 MPa minimum) and screeds/renders 24 hours before application.Pro Tip: Remove at least 80% glaze on existing tiles before priming to maximise adhesion. -
Mixing
Measure 5.5–6 litres of clean water per 20 kg bag. Add C-Mastic powder gradually while mixing with an electric stirrer fitted with a paddle attachment until smooth and lump-free. Allow mix to stand for 3 minutes, then re-stir before use.
Method 1 – Controlled Water Ratio
Always add powder to water (not vice versa) to achieve optimal consistency and avoid lumps.
Method 2 – Batch Mixing
Only mix quantities that can be applied within the 1-hour pot life to maintain bond integrity.
Timing: Use mixed adhesive within 1 hour at 23°C.Pro Tip: Avoid mixing in direct sunlight to prevent accelerated set times. -
Application
Apply adhesive to the substrate using the correct size notched trowel for the tile size. For tiles >300×300 mm, back-butter in addition to notching the floor/wall. Spread no more than 1 m² at a time to prevent skinning before laying tiles.
Method 1 – Standard Bedding
Press tiles into adhesive with a sliding action to achieve full contact and avoid voids.
Method 2 – Clip System Installation
Use a 12, 15, or 20 mm notch and back-butter tiles to achieve full coverage in compliance with AS 3958.
Timing: Open time ≈ 30 minutes, adjustment time ≈ 40 minutes at 23°C.Pro Tip: Periodically lift a tile to confirm 100% coverage and adjust technique as required. -
Curing & Grouting
Allow at least 24 hours before grouting. Protect tiling from rain and moisture during curing. In wet areas, wait 3 days before service; in immersed areas, allow 7 days before filling.
Method 1 – Standard Grouting
Begin once adhesive has cured and tiles are secure, removing any adhesive from joints before grouting.
Method 2 – Wet Area Grouting
Allow a longer curing period in humid or cold conditions to ensure full adhesive set before exposure to moisture.
Timing: Grout after 24 hours; wet area service after 3 days; immersion after 7 days.Pro Tip: Use grout with compatible flexibility and water-resistance for high-performance installations.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Do not apply when surface or ambient temperatures are below 5°C or above 35°C. Extreme temperatures can impair curing and adhesion.
Not recommended for direct application onto timber floors. Use a suitable fibre cement underlay or approved substrate for tiling over timber.
Not suitable for moisture-sensitive stone, as moisture may cause staining or damage. Select an appropriate stone adhesive in these cases.
Avoid spot fixing tiles — full coverage bedding is essential to maintain bond strength and prevent water tracking.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing to prevent skin and eye contact. Use a dust mask or respirator when mixing in enclosed spaces.
Ventilation Requirements
Ensure adequate ventilation during mixing and application, especially in confined areas. Position fans or open windows to improve air exchange.
Fire & Handling Precautions
Gripset C-Mastic is non-flammable. Avoid contamination with incompatible materials. Store in original packaging, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Flush immediately with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Skin:
Wash with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing and launder before reuse.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
Swallowed:
Rinse mouth with water. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical advice immediately.
Seek medical attention immediately in all cases of serious exposure.
Gripset C-Mastic Application Guide
Concrete (incl. Early-Age ≥7 days)
Surface Preparation
Clean, sound, smooth, dry and free from dust, oil, curing compounds and contaminants. Minimum compressive strength ≥20 MPa. Wood-float finish preferred. Mechanically abrade dense/steel-trowelled or burnished concrete to create a key. Remove laitance by grinding/abrasive blasting. Ensure movement joints are detailed per AS 3958.
Primer Requirements
Primer recommended according to porosity/finish
On very dense/steel-trowelled concrete where abrasion is impractical, prime with OP Primer. On highly porous slabs, prime with GP Primer to regulate suction.
Gripset GP Primer (≈1 L / 8–10 m²) • Gripset OP Primer (≈1 L / 12 m²)Cement Screed & Render
Surface Preparation
Allow to cure ≥24 hours before tiling. Substrate must be clean, sound, and free of friable material. Mechanically remove weak or dusty surfaces.
Primer Requirements
Primer recommended for high suction areas
Use GP Primer to control porosity and improve wet-edge/open time where suction is high.
Gripset GP Primer (≈1 L / 8–10 m²)Rendered Masonry & Blockwork
Surface Preparation
Ensure surfaces are structurally sound, clean, and free from efflorescence. Remove loose render and contaminants. Repair defects before tiling.
Primer Requirements
Primer recommended based on porosity
Use GP Primer where the surface is highly absorbent to stabilise suction and improve coverage.
Gripset GP Primer (≈1 L / 8–10 m²)Plasterboard Linings
Surface Preparation
Sheets must be fixed to manufacturer instructions and building standards. Ensure surfaces are clean, dry and dust-free. Check for deflection and fixings.
Primer Requirements
Primer recommended where paper face is highly absorbent
Prime to regulate suction and improve open time where necessary.
Gripset GP Primer (≈1 L / 8–10 m²)Compressed Fibre Cement Sheeting
Surface Preparation
Install to manufacturer specs. Ensure sheets are clean, dry and securely fixed. Remove dust and site contaminants.
Primer Requirements
Primer optional based on porosity
On very absorbent sheets, use GP Primer to control suction and maintain workability.
Gripset GP Primer (≈1 L / 8–10 m²)Existing Tiled Surfaces
Surface Preparation
Existing tiles must be well bonded and secure. Mechanically abrade/roughen to remove ≥80% of the glaze. Clean thoroughly to remove dust/slurry.
Primer Requirements
Primer required for non-porous surfaces
Prime with OP Primer to promote adhesion over the remaining glaze/non-porous surface.
Gripset OP Primer (≈1 L / 12 m²)Gripset Waterproofing Membranes
Surface Preparation
Ensure membrane is fully cured and clean per membrane TDS. No dust, release agents or surface contaminants. Observe movement joint layout per AS 3958.
Primer Requirements
Primer typically not required when membrane is within system compatibility
If surface is contaminated or glossy, clean/abrade lightly or consult system TDS for primer advice.
System-compatible (refer to membrane system guidance)
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