11
RLA Universal Primer: A Technical Overview
RLA Universal Primer is a rapid-drying, low-VOC, water-based acrylic primer designed for both porous and non-porous substrates. On standard concrete, dilute 1 part primer to 2 parts clean water to wet-out pores and control suction, ensuring uniform adhesive/leveller curing. On non-porous surfaces—such as burnished concrete, ceramic tiles, and liquid waterproofing membranes—apply neat to form a transparent, tack-free film that promotes reliable bond of subsequent cement-based products. Typical recoat/over-apply window is 30–60 minutes at 23 °C, supporting efficient sequencing on Australian job sites where temperature and humidity vary.
30–60 min
Typical dry to transparent film at 23 °C
Core Features & Specifications
- Water-based acrylic, low VOC — safer indoor work and easy water clean-up.
- Dual-mode priming — dilute 1:2 on standard porous concrete; apply neat on non-porous substrates.
- Fast turnaround — typically ready for adhesives/levellers in 30–60 minutes at 23 °C.
- Wide substrate compatibility — concrete, ceramic tiles, liquid membranes, and water-based painted surfaces.
- Coverage efficiency — approx. 5–10 m²/L depending on substrate absorbency.
- Supports moisture management workflows — specify a moisture barrier if RH > 75% (ASTM F2170).
- Professional pack sizes — 5 L and 20 L; 12-month shelf life in unopened containers.
The RLA Universal Primer Advantage
- Reduced call-backs: predictable bond line on both porous and non-porous substrates.
- Labour efficiency: short drying window streamlines tiling and levelling schedules.
- Cleaner jobs: solvent-free, low odour, and water clean-up for indoor applications.
- System confidence: proven compatibility with cement-based adhesives and levellers.
Proactive Troubleshooting
Scenario: Priming over high-moisture concrete (>75% RH)
Potential Outcome: Adhesive/leveller instability or debonding.
Adheseal Best Practice: Verify RH via in-situ probe (ASTM F2170). If >75% RH, install a compatible moisture barrier before priming.
Scenario: Applying to high-gloss tiles or contaminated surfaces
Potential Outcome: Poor wetting and reduced adhesion of subsequent layers.
Adheseal Best Practice: Do not apply over high-gloss ceramic tile finishes. Degloss, lightly sand where appropriate, and clean thoroughly; ensure the surface is dry, sound and dust-free before priming.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Tilers (On-site Applicator): Over-tiling existing ceramic
The Professional's Challenge
Achieving reliable adhesion when over-tiling glazed ceramic in bathrooms, while keeping program times tight.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Clean and degloss tile (light mechanical key if appropriate). Apply primer neat to form a transparent film (≈1 h at 23 °C). Set with a cement-based tile adhesive, following open time guidance.
Best Practice Note
Avoid high-gloss tiles; if present, mechanically degloss to a uniform matte before priming.
For Flooring Contractors (Business Owner): Levelling burnished concrete
The Professional's Challenge
Low-porosity slabs risk bond failure and patchy leveller cure, increasing rectification costs.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Lightly sand to promote key; vacuum. Apply primer neat to achieve an even, tack-free film. Pour levelling compound within the recommended window for consistent cure and bond.
Best Practice Note
Confirm slab RH ≤ 75% (in-situ probe). If higher, install a moisture barrier before priming to prevent debonding.
For Builders (Specifier/Coordinator): Standard porous concrete under tiles
The Professional's Challenge
Controlling suction to avoid rapid water loss from the adhesive and inconsistent set.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Dilute 1 part primer to 2 parts clean water; apply evenly. On very porous substrates, apply a second coat diluted 1:3 to stabilise the surface before tiling.
Best Practice Note
Use the “water drop” test: if a 10-cent-sized puddle absorbs in <2 minutes, treat as porous.
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
-
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.
-
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.
RLA Universal Primer
- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.