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RLA Universal Primer is a water-based acrylic primer formulated for professional substrate preparation in commercial flooring and tiling applications. This dual-mode system enables contractors to regulate substrate suction on porous concrete through a 1:2 dilution or establish a reliable bond interface on non-porous burnished concrete and liquid membranes via neat application.
The rapid 30–60 minute drying window ensures efficient workflow sequencing while preventing delamination and adhesive dehydration, provided the subfloor moisture is verified below 75% relative humidity per ASTM F2170 standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this primer on non-porous surfaces like ceramic tiles?
Yes. Apply neat (undiluted) to non-porous substrates and allow to dry to a transparent, tack-free film (typically 30–60 minutes at 23 °C) before applying levellers or adhesives. Avoid high-gloss tiles unless deglossed and cleaned.
What dilution should I use on standard concrete?
For typical porous concrete, dilute 1 part primer : 2 parts clean water. On very porous concrete, apply a second coat diluted 1:3 to stabilise suction and dusting.
How do I check if a substrate is porous?
Use the water drop test: place a puddle about the size of a 10-cent coin. If it absorbs in < 2 minutes, it’s porous; if it remains, treat as non-porous and apply primer neat.
What about high concrete moisture?
If in-situ RH (ASTM F2170) is > 75%, install a compatible moisture barrier before priming to avoid bond issues. Verify RH and substrate conditions before proceeding.
Is this for interior or exterior use?
For internal use only. Maintain a minimum subfloor temperature of 10 °C during application; consult technical support if below 5 °C or above 35 °C.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Priming standard porous concrete prior to tiling | Controls suction for consistent adhesive cure | Tilers, Builders |
| Bond promotion on ceramic tiles (not high-gloss) | Improves adhesion on low-porosity surfaces | Tilers, Remedial |
| Levelling over burnished/steel-trowelled concrete | Reliable film for uniform leveller curing | Flooring Contractors |
| Preparation over liquid waterproofing membranes | Assures bond of cement-based toppings | Waterproofers, Tilers |
Applying RLA Universal Primer: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices
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Assess Substrate & Porosity
Confirm soundness, dryness, and cleanliness. Perform the water drop test to determine dilution vs. neat application.
Pro Tip: Verify RH ≤ 75% via in-situ probes (ASTM F2170) before priming. -
Surface Preparation
Remove wax, oil, grease, curing compounds, and dust. Mechanically prepare if required (shot blasting/diamond grinding). Vacuum thoroughly.
Timing: Proceed when substrate temperature ≥ 10 °C. -
Mixing & Dilution
When diluting, mix primer and clean water thoroughly. Standard concrete: 1:2 (primer:water). Very porous: second coat 1:3.
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Application Method
Porous Substrates
Apply diluted primer evenly by roller or brush ensuring full coverage. Allow to dry to a transparent film.
Non-Porous Substrates
Apply primer neat (undiluted) to achieve a uniform film. Lightly sand extremely non-porous surfaces first to enhance adhesion.
Timing: Typical dry/overcoat window 30–60 minutes at 23 °C.Pro Tip: Coverage ~5–10 m²/L; adjust technique to substrate absorbency to avoid pooling. -
Overcoating
Once the film is tack-free and transparent, apply cement-based adhesives or levelling compounds according to their instructions.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Internal use only; maintain substrate temperature ≥ 10 °C. Avoid application below 5 °C or above 35 °C.
Do not apply to high-gloss ceramic tiles; degloss or mechanically abrade first.
Not a moisture barrier. If concrete RH > 75% (ASTM F2170), install a compatible moisture barrier before priming.
Do not use solvents or acid etching for substrate cleaning.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear suitable gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. Avoid skin and eye contact.
Ventilation Requirements
Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid breathing vapours. Indoor works must ensure adequate airflow.
Fire & Handling Precautions
Keep away from ignition sources. Store in a dry area, off the ground. Shelf life 12 months in unopened containers.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present; continue rinsing.
Skin:
Wash with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if unwell.
Swallowed:
Do not induce vomiting; give water and contact medical services immediately.
Seek medical attention immediately in all cases of serious exposure.
RLA Universal Primer Application Guide
Standard Porous Concrete
Surface Preparation
Clean, sound, dry, and dust-free. Remove contaminants (oil/grease/curing compounds). Minimum subfloor temperature 10 °C.
Primer Requirements
Dilute 1:2 (primer:water)
Apply evenly by roller/brush. Allow 30–60 minutes to dry to a transparent film.
RLA Universal PrimerVery Porous Concrete
Surface Preparation
As above; vacuum thoroughly after mechanical prep (shot blasting/diamond grinding) if required.
Primer Requirements
Second coat diluted 1:3
Apply a second diluted coat if suction is excessive to stabilise the surface.
RLA Universal PrimerBurnished Concrete (Non-Porous)
Surface Preparation
Light sand/abrade to enhance key; vacuum dust.
Primer Requirements
Apply neat (undiluted)
Dry to a clear, tack-free film before overcoating.
RLA Universal PrimerCeramic Tiles (Not High-Gloss)
Surface Preparation
Clean, degloss if needed; avoid high-gloss finishes. Rinse and dry.
Primer Requirements
Apply neat (undiluted)
Allow to dry to a transparent film before adhesive/leveller application.
RLA Universal PrimerWater-Based Painted Surfaces
Surface Preparation
Ensure coating is water-based, sound, clean, and lightly abraded if glossy. Remove flaking paint.
Primer Requirements
Apply neat (undiluted) for critical adhesion
Test area recommended on repaints and aged coatings.
RLA Universal PrimerLiquid Waterproofing Membranes
Surface Preparation
Membrane must be fully cured, clean, and compatible with subsequent products.
Primer Requirements
Apply neat (undiluted)
Allow clear, tack-free film before leveller/adhesive.
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