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11

Mapei Primer G

Primer G sorts out dodgy substrates before you tile, paint or screed over them. It regulates absorption on gypsum, cement and anhydrite, stops ettringite forming between incompatible layers, and gives you a consistent surface to bond to. With 0 gm/Lt VOCs and EC1 Plus classification, you can use it in enclosed spaces without worrying about fumes. Dries in 30-60 minutes on most substrates, so you're not standing around waiting.
Vendor: Mapei
SKU: PRIMEG/5
Availability: Out Of Stock
$57.91
$57.91
Prices do not include GST
Shipping & Delivery

Flat-rate shipping $17.95 + GST (metro and standard zones). Excludes remote/regional/high-cost postcodes and certain items (DG, oversized, long-length, or bagged products 15 kg+). If your order includes any of these, we will contact you to arrange additional freight charges. Online purchases only.

Description
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Transforming an absorbent gypsum, cementitious, or anhydrite surface into a perfectly prepared substrate can be the difference between a lasting finish and costly rework. Primer G delivers consistent, uniform absorption and enhanced adhesion, ensuring subsequent finishes — from tiles to paint — bond reliably. It stabilises challenging substrates, eliminating common issues before they start.

Why this product exists

Primer G is a synthetic resin primer in water dispersion, specifically formulated to consolidate and prepare absorbent surfaces. It addresses the critical need to regulate absorption and improve adhesion on tricky substrates like gypsum, cement, and anhydrite. This primer acts as an essential barrier, preventing detrimental chemical reactions such as ettringite formation between gypsum and cement-based products. Its purpose is to ensure any subsequent finish, from ceramic tiles and smoothing compounds to wallpapers and paints, achieves optimal bond strength and performance.

The numbers that matter

Primer G’s 18% dry solids content ensures it forms a flexible, compact coating without creating a thick surface film, which is crucial for uniform absorption. With a drying time of 30-60 minutes on most substrates, it allows for quick turnaround, keeping projects on schedule. Classified as EC1 Plus for very low emissions and containing 0 grams per litre of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), it promotes healthier indoor air quality, making it suitable for use in enclosed, unventilated spaces without special precautions.

What it's like to use

  • Substrate Preparation: Surfaces must be clean, dry, and free from loose material. For concrete with cracks, repairing with Eporip or Epojet is recommended before priming. Anhydrite surfaces require sandpapering.
  • Application Versatility: Primer G adapts to various application needs. Use it neat for ceramic tiles on gypsum or for self-levelling on gypsum-based substrates. Dilute it 1:2 with water for anchoring gypsum plasters, 1:1 for self-levelling on cementitious substrates, and 1:3 for wallpaper adhesives. Always apply with a flat brush, roller, or spray for uniform coverage.
  • Clean-up: Tools and containers clean easily with water immediately after use. Dried residues can be removed mechanically or with Pulicol 2000.

Where this product excels

  • Tiling over Gypsum: Essential for preparing gypsum plasters, panels, or anhydrite screeds before installing ceramic tiles. It prevents the chemical reaction that causes delamination, ensuring the tile adhesive bonds securely.
  • Flooring Underlayment: Used before applying self-levelling or smoothing compounds on cementitious or gypsum floors. Primer G reduces air bubbles, prevents premature drying, and improves workability, leading to a smoother finish.
  • Wall & Ceiling Finishing: As an anchoring coat for gypsum-based sprayable plasters, it regulates water absorption, extends workability, and minimises shrinkage cracks.
  • Painting & Decorating: Ideal for priming gypsum walls, chipboard, cement fibre boards, or renders before painting or wallpapering. It reduces absorption uniformly, decreases glue consumption for wallpaper, and simplifies future removal.

How it fits in a real system

Primer G serves as a foundational preparation step, typically applied directly to the substrate after cleaning and repairs. It creates the critical interface that ensures compatibility and robust adhesion for subsequent layers. For multi-layer systems, such as when applying several coats of smoothing compounds, Primer G can be diluted 1:1 with water and applied between layers once the previous coat is dry, guaranteeing consistent absorption and system integrity through the entire build-up.

Choose this when

  • When preparing absorbent gypsum, cementitious, or anhydrite substrates: For uniform absorption and optimal adhesion of ceramic tiles, smoothing compounds, sprayable plasters, wallpaper, or paint.
  • When preventing ettringite formation: Essential between gypsum and cementitious products to avoid delamination.
  • When regulating substrate absorption: Critical for extending the workability of plasters and reducing consumption of wallpaper adhesives.
  • When seeking a low-emission, non-flammable primer: Ideal for enclosed interior applications where air quality is a concern.

Don't use this when

  • Not for: Waterproofing gypsum substrates; this primer reduces porosity but does not provide a waterproof barrier.
  • Not for: Magnesium substrates, as it is not formulated for adhesion to these materials.
  • Not for: External applications or areas with rising damp, where its performance and durability may be compromised.
  • Not for: Applying as a thick, undiluted surface film across all applications; follow dilution ratios to achieve the correct film thickness and optimal absorption regulation.

Primer G is certified EC1 Plus (very low emission) by GEV EMICODE, ensuring it contributes to superior indoor air quality during and after application. This standard provides peace of mind for both applicators and building occupants.

Primer G versus Mapei Eco Prim Grip

Primer G is specifically engineered for consolidating and regulating the absorption of highly porous surfaces like gypsum, cement, and anhydrite. Its primary role is to ensure uniform absorption and prevent chemical reactions, making it ideal for preparing these challenging substrates for subsequent finishes. In contrast, Eco Prim Grip is a versatile, ready-to-use primer designed to enhance adhesion on both absorbent and non-absorbent, smooth surfaces. While Eco Prim Grip offers exceptional grip, Primer G's focus on absorption control and consolidation on problematic porous substrates defines its unique value in the Mapei primer range. Choose Primer G when absorption regulation and substrate consolidation are key, and Eco Prim Grip when strong adhesion to diverse, potentially non-absorbent surfaces is the priority.

Common Questions
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Frequently asked questions

Why use Primer G when applying cement-based products over gypsum?

Primer G prevents a chemical reaction between sulphates in gypsum and cement aluminates, which can form "ettringite" and cause delamination. It forms a barrier, ensuring a stable bond.

Can I use Primer G for exterior applications or areas with rising damp?

No, Primer G is not recommended for external use or where rising damp is present. It is designed for internal applications and will not prevent water ingress or perform reliably in damp conditions.

How quickly can I apply the next layer after using Primer G?

The drying time before applying levelling compounds or adhesives is 30 minutes on concrete substrates. For gypsum substrates, allow 30-60 minutes, assuming 23°C and 50% relative humidity.

How does Primer G improve the application of self-levelling compounds?

It reduces the formation of air bubbles in the compound and prevents over-rapid drying of the leveller. This extends workability and simplifies the self-levelling process for a smoother finish.

Uses & Benefits
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Applications and benefits

Where Mapei Primer G is used, what it delivers, and who uses it
Application Key benefit Primary trades
Preparing gypsum for ceramic tiling Prevents ettringite formation and delamination between gypsum and cementitious tile adhesives. Tilers, Floor & Wall Preparers
Priming before self-levelling or smoothing compounds Reduces air bubbles and prevents premature drying, improving workability and finish quality. Floor Preparers, Tilers
Anchoring coat for gypsum-based sprayable plasters Regulates substrate absorption, prolongs workability, and helps prevent shrinkage cracks. Plasterers
Fixative for wallpaper or paint on gypsum walls Uniformly reduces substrate absorption, reducing glue consumption and easing future wallpaper removal. Painters, Wall Paperers
Between layers of smoothing compounds Ensures consistent absorption and adhesion for subsequent layers, maintaining system integrity. Floor Preparers
How To Apply
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Applying Mapei Primer G: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices

  1. Surface Preparation

    Ensure the surface is structurally sound, dry, and free of oils, grease, paint, or dust. Sand anhydrite surfaces, vacuum thoroughly, and repair cracks if required.

    Pro Tip: Use a moisture meter to confirm gypsum substrates meet manufacturer’s humidity requirements before priming to prevent later debonding.
  2. Mixing & Dilution

    Stir well before use. Dilute Primer G as follows: 1:1 with water for cementitious substrates, 1:2 for anchoring gypsum plasters, 1:3 for wallpaper primer. Apply neat on gypsum-based substrates.

    Timing: Apply mixed primer immediately; avoid letting it settle or separate.
  3. Application

    Apply evenly using a flat brush, roller, or spray pump. Avoid puddling and ensure uniform coverage over the entire surface.

    Timing: Allow to dry for 30 min (cement) or 30–60 min (gypsum) before applying self-levelling compounds, adhesives, or plasters.
    Pro Tip: In high-absorption substrates, apply a second coat crosswise after the first has dried for uniform consolidation.
Limitations and Safety Info
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Product limitations

  • Not for: Waterproofing gypsum substrates. While it reduces porosity, it does not provide a waterproof barrier.
  • Not for: External applications or areas with rising damp. Performance may be compromised in these conditions.
  • Not for: Magnesium substrates. Avoid use on these surfaces.
  • Caution: Do not apply Primer G in a quantity that forms a surface film. Always dilute with water as appropriate for the substrate's absorption to ensure proper penetration and function.

Safety and handling

Mapei Primer G is not classified as dangerous according to Australia WHS 2 (2021).

Personal protective equipment

Eye protection is not required for normal use. Operate according to good working practices. Suitable materials for safety gloves include Nitrile rubber (thickness >=0.35mm, breakthrough time >=480min) or Butyl rubber (thickness >=0.5mm, breakthrough time >=480min).

Ventilation

Primer G is non-flammable and can be used in closed, unventilated environments without special precautions.

First aid

  • Skin contact: Wash with plenty of water and soap.
  • Eye contact: Wash immediately with water.
  • Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention with the SDS and hazard label.
  • Inhalation: Remove casualty to fresh air and keep warm and at rest.

Storage and disposal

Store in original unopened packaging for up to 12 months. Protect from frost. Keep away from food, drink, and animal feed in adequately ventilated premises. Dispose of product and contaminated packaging according to local regulations; do not dispose into drains or waterways.

Suitable Substrates
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Substrate guide

Proper substrate preparation is critical for adhesion and system performance. This guide details specific prep and priming instructions for common surfaces.

Gypsum surfaces (plasters, pre-cast panels, fibrous-gypsum panels)

Surface prep: Substrate must be clean, dry, and free from oils, grease, residual paint, and loose material. Follow manufacturer's recommendations for moisture content and surface finish. Abrade particularly smooth or glossy gypsum plaster surfaces.

Primer: Required. Apply neat (undiluted) for smoothing compounds or use undiluted for ceramic tiles. Dilute 1:2 with water for anchoring gypsum plasters. Dilute 1:3 with water for wallpaper adhesives.

Cementitious surfaces (screeds, renders)

Surface prep: Must be clean, dry, and free from contaminants. Repair cracks with a suitable product like Eporip or Epojet. Ensure surfaces are sound and free of loose material.

Primer: Required. Dilute 1:1 with water before applying smoothing or thixotropic compounds. Use undiluted if applying gypsum-based products over cementitious renders.

Anhydrite screeds

Surface prep: Sandpaper the surface thoroughly before application to ensure proper adhesion.

Primer: Required. Use Primer G undiluted before applying cement-based products or when installing ceramic tiles with cementitious adhesives.

Chipboard, cement fibre boards, foamed concrete

Surface prep: Ensure surfaces are clean, dry, and structurally sound, free from dust, oils, and loose particles.

Primer: Required. Apply Primer G as a fixative prior to papering or painting, typically diluted according to absorption.

Mapei Primer G Physical Properties

Mapei Primer G Physical Properties
Property Value
Consistency liquid
Colour light blue
Density 1.01 g/cm³
pH 8
Dry Solids Content 18 %
GEV EMICODE EC1 Plus - very low emission
Maximum VOC (2004/42/EC) 0 g/l
Application Temperature Range 5°C to 35°C
Drying Time Before Levelling Compounds or Adhesive (Concrete) 30 min
Drying Time Before Levelling Compounds or Adhesive (Gypsum) 30-60 min
Consumption 0.08 - 0.15 kg/m²

Mapei Primer G - Use Cases

Here are some common examples on where Mapei Primer G used by our customers.

Masonry

Prepare Walls for Plaster/Paint

Applying sprayable gypsum plaster, wallpaper, or paint onto absorbent internal gypsum or cement fibre walls.

Regulates substrate absorption, preventing rapid water loss from plasters, reducing glue usage for wallpaper, and improving finish consistency.

  • Gypsum walls substrate
  • Cement fibre boards substrate
  • 1:2 water dilution
  • Reduces substrate absorption

Tiling

Tile over Gypsum & Anhydrite

Installing ceramic tiles or cementitious smoothing compounds onto gypsum plaster or anhydrite screeds.

Prevents delamination by stopping ettringite formation, ensuring strong adhesion for cement-based products on sulphate-rich substrates.

  • Gypsum plaster substrate
  • Anhydrite screed substrate
  • Prevents ettringite formation
  • 30-60 min drying time

Flooring

Prime Cementitious for Self-Levelling

Preparing cement-based substrates before applying self-levelling or thixotropic smoothing compounds.

Reduces air bubble formation and prevents over-rapid drying of levelling compounds, ensuring a smoother, more even floor finish.

  • Cementitious substrates
  • Reduces air bubbles
  • 1:1 water dilution
  • 30 min drying time

Painting & Decorating

Wall Prep for Wallpaper

Treating porous surfaces like gypsum walls, chipboard, or renders prior to wallpapering or painting.

Provides uniform absorption for consistent finish quality, reduces wallpaper adhesive consumption, and simplifies future wallpaper removal without damage.

  • Gypsum walls
  • Chipboard
  • Wallpaper adhesives
  • Painting surfaces

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