Gripset XpressLay: A Technical Overview
Gripset XpressLay is a 1mm thick, reinforced self-adhesive PVC membrane engineered for fast-track waterproofing and anti-fracture systems in internal wet area floors. Installed without torching or solvent-based primers, it bonds instantly to a wide range of substrates including tiles, screeds, plywood, epoxy coatings and soft plastics. With excellent resistance to vibration and substrate movement, it enhances the structural durability of tile installations and is compatible with all Gripset liquid membranes. XpressLay is compliant with AS 4858 and supports fast tiling or screeding directly over the surface.
Core Features & Specifications
- 1mm thick reinforced PVC sheet with Class II flexibility
- Self-adhesive backing eliminates torching or glue systems
- Rapid installation with no cure time delays
- High vibration and movement resistance—ideal for timber and cracked slabs
- Compatible with tile adhesives, screeds and Gripset liquid membranes
- Solvent-free, non-hazardous, and fume-free during install
- Compliant with AS 4858 for internal wet areas
- Supplied in 10m x 1.3m rolls (13m² coverage per roll)
The Gripset XpressLay Advantage
- Lay and tile the same day—eliminates wet membrane cure delays
- Reliable adhesion even in cold and humid environments
- Works over timber, plastic, existing tiles, and epoxy-coated surfaces
- Forms a complete hybrid waterproofing system with Gripset liquid membranes
- Minimises project downtime with easy handling and rapid bond
Proactive Troubleshooting
Scenario: Skipping primer on porous or damp concrete
Potential Outcome: Poor adhesion and possible bubbling beneath the sheet.
Adheseal Best Practice: Prime porous or damp substrates with RLA Universal Primer (diluted) or Gripset E60 for high moisture surfaces.
Scenario: Incorrect treatment of sheet overlaps
Potential Outcome: Water ingress at seams, compromising waterproofing warranty.
Adheseal Best Practice: For waterproofing applications, coat all 50mm sheet overlaps with Gripset liquid membrane and firmly press with a vinyl roller.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Tilers (On-Site Applicator): Anti-Fracture Underlay over Cracked Screeds
The Professional's Challenge
Cracks in concrete or screed surfaces risk telegraphing through tiles, causing premature failure or callbacks after seasonal movement.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Gripset XpressLay acts as a slip-sheet and anti-fracture barrier. Its reinforced structure bridges minor cracks, while high bond prevents slippage. No membrane coating required if used outside wet zones.
Best Practice Note
Always overlap sheets by 50mm. Use a vinyl roller to press and seal overlaps. For wet areas, apply Gripset liquid membrane over the joins.
For Waterproofers (Specifier/Engineer): Internal Floor Waterproofing Over Mixed Surfaces
The Professional's Challenge
Floors with combinations of timber, ceramic, and coatings make it difficult to ensure consistent waterproof membrane adhesion across zones.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
XpressLay bonds directly to all common floor materials including PVC, DPC, ceramic, and epoxy. Once applied, Gripset membranes can be installed on top with consistent performance and AS 4858 compliance.
Best Practice Note
For fixtures and pipes, use Elastoproof Collars or seal with Gripset liquid membranes. Always seal sheet joins with membrane in wet areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I tile directly over Gripset XpressLay?
Yes. Gripset XpressLay is compatible with polymer-modified cement adhesives such as C-LITE, C-MASTIC, and C-RUBBER. Ensure full sheet adhesion and surface cleanliness before tiling.
Is XpressLay suitable for external or vertical applications?
No. Gripset XpressLay is designed strictly for internal horizontal surfaces. It must not be used outdoors or on vertical substrates.
How should sheet overlaps be treated in wet areas?
All overlaps (min. 50mm) in waterproofing applications must be sealed with a 100mm wide coat of Gripset liquid membrane to ensure watertightness and long-term durability.
Do I need to prime the surface before installation?
Yes. Use RLA Universal Primer diluted for porous surfaces, or neat for non-porous. Use Gripset E60 on green/damp concrete with >80% RH or 5% MC.
Can it be used over existing tiles or epoxy flooring?
Yes. XpressLay adheres well to properly prepared glazed, ceramic, vinyl, epoxy, and other finished surfaces. Ensure surfaces are clean, sound, and dry before application.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Internal Wet Area Floors | Rapid waterproofing without curing time; compatible with direct tiling | Tilers, Waterproofers |
| Anti-Fracture Underlay over Cracked Screeds | Bridges minor cracks and reduces risk of tile damage from slab movement | Tilers, Builders |
| Mixed Substrate Transitions (e.g. timber to tile) | Provides uniform bond and waterproof barrier over multiple materials | Waterproofers, Specifiers |
| Overlays on Epoxy or Glazed Finishes | High tack adhesion to coated or non-porous floors; eliminates grinding | Remedial Contractors, Tilers |
| Fast Renovation Jobs | Eliminates delays—tile or screed the same day with no wet membrane curing | Waterproofers, Renovation Builders |
| Hybrid Systems with Gripset Liquid Membranes | Compatible base layer for Elastoproof detailing and top-coat membranes | Waterproofers |
Applying Gripset XpressLay: Step-by-Step
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1. Surface Preparation
Ensure the substrate is structurally sound, clean, dry (unless using E60), and free from contaminants. Vacuum dust, remove laitance, and prime appropriately.
- Porous Substrates: Prime with diluted RLA Universal Primer (2:1 water)
- Dense / Non-Porous: Use undiluted RLA Universal Primer
- Damp/Green Concrete: Prime with Gripset E60
Pro Tip: Avoid priming on hot days or direct sunlight—this can cause flash-drying and reduce adhesion. -
2. Sheet Positioning
Pre-cut sheets to fit the layout. Always ensure a 50mm overlap at sheet joints. Align rolls prior to removing the release film.
Pro Tip: Mark layout lines on the substrate using chalk or laser for precise alignment before peeling the film. -
3. Membrane Application
Peel back the release liner and gradually press the membrane onto the surface. Use a rubber roller or weighted vinyl roller to eliminate bubbles and enhance bond.
Pro Tip: Start from the centre and roll outwards. Apply consistent downward pressure across the entire sheet. -
4. Overlap Detailing
All sheet overlaps must be a minimum of 50mm. In waterproofing applications, apply Gripset liquid membrane over the joints at 100mm width for watertight protection.
Pro Tip: Use a roller on wet membrane over laps to fully bed the coating into the overlap join. -
5. Tiling or Screeding
Install tiles using polymer-modified cement adhesives (e.g. Gripset C-LITE, C-RUBBER). For screeds, ensure proper adhesion to the sheet and apply suitable bonding agents.
Pro Tip: Tiling can commence immediately after membrane install—no drying time required.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Not suitable for vertical or external surfaces — XpressLay is designed for internal horizontal floor use only.
Do not use over surfaces with active negative hydrostatic pressure or rising damp. Ensure moisture is within allowable limits or use Gripset E60 primer.
All sheet overlaps must be sealed with Gripset liquid membrane in wet area applications to maintain waterproofing compliance.
Incompatible with solvent-based adhesives, primers, or topcoats. Use solvent-free systems only.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear gloves when handling the membrane or primers. Safety goggles and long sleeves are recommended when using primers.
Ventilation Requirements
Use in well-ventilated areas. Although the sheet is inert, some primers may emit mild vapours—ventilate confined spaces during primer application.
Storage & Fire Precautions
Store flat in dry conditions, out of direct sunlight. Do not expose to flame or extreme heat. Roll edges may deform if stored incorrectly.
Emergency First Aid (Primers)
Eyes:
Rinse with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Skin:
Wash off with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air. Consult medical advice if symptoms occur.
Swallowed:
Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical help immediately.
Refer to the SDS of the specific primer used for full safety instructions.
Gripset XpressLay Application Guide
Concrete & Screed
Surface Preparation
Ensure substrate has cured (28 days for concrete, 7 days for screed). Remove dust, laitance, and debris. Fill surface voids using Gripset 11Y or RLA levelling compounds.
Primer Requirements
Primer required for all conditions
Use RLA Universal Primer diluted 2:1 with water on porous concrete. For damp surfaces, apply Gripset E60.
RLA Universal Primer / Gripset E60Compressed Fibre Cement Sheeting
Surface Preparation
Ensure securely fastened with no surface contamination. Remove dust and fill joints if required. Tape transitions using Elastoproof B50 Band if used with membranes.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Apply undiluted RLA Universal Primer for best bond and vapour resistance.
RLA Universal PrimerTimber Sheeting & Plywood
Surface Preparation
Fix securely with proper joist spacing. Ensure substrate is dry and clean. Sand to remove coating or wax if applicable.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Use undiluted RLA Universal Primer for non-porous timber or diluted for raw sheeting.
RLA Universal PrimerGlazed Surfaces & Ceramics
Surface Preparation
Mechanically abrade smooth finishes. Clean with alkaline degreaser. Ensure surface is dry and structurally stable.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Apply undiluted RLA Universal Primer. Bonding may also be enhanced using Gripset OP Primer if required.
RLA Universal PrimerPVC, DPC Films & Plastics
Surface Preparation
Clean thoroughly with solvent-free cleaner. Abrade lightly for mechanical key. Ensure surface is dry and free from oils or mould release agents.
Primer Requirements
Primer typically not required
Priming is not usually necessary when surfaces are clean and dry. Bond may be enhanced with Gripset OP Primer if adhesion is uncertain.
Optional: Gripset OP Primer
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