Gripset OP Primer

For waterproofing and tiling installations where adhesion to metal flashings, rigid PVC leak control flanges, ceramic tiles, or smooth concrete is required, OP Primer provides a solvent-free bonding bridge. It establishes a secure grip on difficult, non-porous surfaces to prevent Gripset membranes and tile adhesives from peeling or de-bonding over time.

How it builds adhesion

OP Primer dries to a textured, non-tacky finish that creates a mechanical key on smooth substrates. This surface texture gives the subsequent membrane, tile adhesive, or polymer coating a high-friction physical bond, bypassing the need for aggressive solvent-based primers or hazardous etching chemicals. The water-based formulation is low-VOC and dries to a distinct blue colour, allowing installers to easily verify full, uniform coverage across the substrate.

Substrate compatibility

This primer is formulated for application over dry, interior and exterior substrates, including:

• Metal flashings and waterstops used in waterproofing applications
• Concrete and glass reinforced concrete
• Existing ceramic tiles and natural stone
• Compressed fibre cement sheeting, including James Hardie Scyon Secura external and internal flooring
• Rigid PVC leak control flanges, waterstops, and pipe penetrations
• Approved polymer coatings

Limitations

• Do not use over damp substrates, substrates with elevated residual moisture, or areas subject to rising damp and active moisture (treat these areas with Gripset E60 instead).
• Do not use for priming areas subject to rising moisture or negative hydrostatic pressure.
• Not suitable for immersed applications.
• OP Primer is not a substitute for a mandatory waterproof membrane system when tiling over existing tiles in internal or external wet areas; it must be covered with an approved under-tile membrane.
• Not suitable for applications where solvent-based adhesives, coatings, or paints are applied directly over the cured primer.
• Do not apply when ambient or surface temperatures are below 5°C or above 35°C.

Numbers that matter

• 30-minute dry time: Fast-drying formulation (at 23°C and 50% relative humidity) to minimise waiting times before overcoating.
• 1 Litre per 10m² minimum coverage: The required application rate on smooth, non-porous surfaces to ensure consistent adhesion performance.
• 12-month shelf life: Keep stored at room temperature, off concrete floors, and out of direct sunlight and freezing conditions.

Application and preparation

All surfaces must be clean, structurally sound, dry, and free of dirt, dust, oils, release agents, laitance, curing compounds, and existing coatings. Unsound layers must be mechanically removed by grinding or abrasive blasting. Point masonry surfaces flush and fill any voids, holes, or non-structural cracks with Gripset 11Y enhanced repair mortar before priming.

Apply OP Primer neat. Do not dilute. Apply one coat by brush or medium nap roller until full coverage is achieved. The primer must be completely dry and tack-free before applying finishes. To avoid surface contamination, apply Gripset membranes, tile adhesives, or approved polymer coatings shortly after the primer has dried. Clean tools in water while the primer is still wet; dried product requires mechanical removal or solvent treatment.