Types of concrete screed primer, application rules, pros and cons

Selecting the appropriate primer is essential for readying a surface for concrete screed application. A primer makes sure that the screed and substrate adhere properly, which results in a finish that is more resilient and long-lasting. This post will discuss the various kinds of concrete screed primers that are available and how to use them efficiently.

Different formulations of primers are available, each tailored to particular uses and surface characteristics. While some primers perform best on non-porous substrates, others are made to enhance bonding on porous surfaces. By being aware of these variations, you can choose the best product for your project and guarantee a thick, even layer of screed.

Selecting the appropriate type of primer is not as important as applying it correctly. The results can vary significantly if the manufacturer’s instructions are followed, including those regarding appropriate surface preparation and application methods. Whether working on a residential or commercial project, we’ll give you helpful advice on how to get the best outcomes.

Just like any other building material, primers have benefits and drawbacks. We’ll examine the benefits and drawbacks of using concrete screed primers so you can decide with confidence. These factors will help you choose the best primer for your needs, from improving durability to possible financial implications.

Type Application Rules Pros Cons
Epoxy Primer Apply to clean, dry surface, use roller or brush, allow to cure completely before further work. Strong adhesion, moisture-resistant, durable Long curing time, can be expensive, requires proper ventilation
Polyurethane Primer Ensure surface is clean and dry, apply evenly with roller or brush, allow to cure fully before proceeding. Flexible, strong bonding, resistant to chemicals More costly, sensitive to moisture during application, requires precise mixing
Acrylic Primer Clean the surface, apply with roller or brush, usually dries quickly. Easy to apply, quick drying, cost-effective Less durable, may require multiple coats, not as strong adhesion
Alkyd Primer Surface should be clean and dry, apply with brush or roller, allow sufficient drying time. Good for metal and wood, strong adhesion, durable Longer drying time, can be smelly, not eco-friendly
Silicate Primer Ensure surface is clean, apply evenly with brush or roller, follow manufacturer"s instructions for drying times. Breathable, good for mineral surfaces, eco-friendly Limited to mineral surfaces, can be difficult to apply, longer drying time

What it is?

A primer mixture, also known as primer, is a type of construction compound used to get the floor surface ready for the next layer to be installed. used most frequently prior to laying or using topcoat. The primer has a base, which is a unique component, and far fewer pigments than coloring compounds. Although primer is capable of many different tasks, it has several fundamental uses.

For improved adhesion and durability, surfaces must be primed with concrete screed before screed is applied. There are several kinds, and each is appropriate for certain materials and situations. Achieving the best results requires understanding the application guidelines, which include surface preparation and drying times. Primers have advantages such as improved adhesion and less dust, but they also have disadvantages such as higher expenses and additional preparation work. The various kinds of concrete screed primers, their proper application techniques, and pros and cons will all be covered in this article.

When and why to use?

Ensuring superior adhesion of the concrete screed to the next layer is the primary goal of the solution. Action primers for the floor’s top layer:

  1. Improves adhesion, which ensures reliable adhesion of concrete to the next coating.
  2. Fills concrete pores, voids or delaminations, thereby compacting its loose structure.
  3. Removes dust well from the surface layer. This occurs due to the filling of the pores with bound dust particles.
  4. Increases the water-repellent properties of the screed. Water permeability is reduced, cost of funds is reduced.
  5. Evens out minor defects.
  6. Protects against the formation of fungi and mold, which is very important for damp rooms.

Apart from the aforementioned attributes, the primer fortifies the concrete floor.

Is it possible to get by??

Professionals in construction are vehemently opposed to leaving a concrete screed unprimed. Concrete dust that is able to seep into any finishing coating’s joints. It should be mentioned that before adding the subsequent layer, the rough base needs to be meticulously prepared. One of the necessary preparatory steps is priming.

Concrete primers have two uses: as a finishing coating and as a preparatory layer. Utility rooms and industrial spaces should be aware of this.

Varieties

Various materials are used to make primers:

  • natural or synthetic;
  • solid or liquid;
  • film-forming agents (alkyd resins, drying oil);
  • epoxy or urea-formaldehyde resins;
  • solid film-forming.

Since many compounds have fillers and pigments in them, their drying times, application guidelines, operating conditions, and rates of consumption vary. Primers can be arranged according to certain attributes to make selection easier.

By purpose

This category divides soil types into compositions:

  • surface action or concrete contact;
  • filling action;
  • penetrating action.

Every kind has a distinct function and set of elements.

Adhesive

Adhesive primers are used to increase the concrete floor surface’s adherence to finishing materials.

To give the surface layer a little roughness, manufacturers fill in the spaces with fine sand.

Apart from the primary duty adhesive primer:

  • protects metal surfaces from corrosion;
  • prevents the formation of fungus and mold;
  • increases the level of strength of a porous or cracked surface;
  • reduces moisture absorption.

Different compositions can be found in adhesive mixtures:

  1. Acrylic. They consist of a suspension of special acrylic resins and additional additives. The mixtures do not emit an unpleasant odor, so they can be used in any living space without stopping repair and finishing work.
  2. Alkyd. Used to treat almost all surfaces that are characterized by poor absorption. Organic solvents in its composition allow the material to be used indoors and outdoors.
  3. Perchlorovinyl. Used to treat almost any surface.

It is preferable to use the perchlorovinyl solution outside due to its composition, which contains a lot of hazardous materials.

When adhesive primer hardens, it leaves the screed’s surface with a granular protective layer. The maximum improvement in adhesion with any kind of finishing material is facilitated by this effect. It is advised to apply the solution at least twice in order to strengthen the protective film.

Filling

This kind of primer is used to fill in surface imperfections, microscopic scratches, and crevices in the screed. They are used on loose bases that are highly absorbent. They block some of the concrete’s pores during the exposure process, which lowers the material’s ability to absorb. Previously used:

  1. Laying tiles. Impregnation significantly increases the service life of the adhesive if applied before its use.
  2. Applying paint or varnish. The primer reduces the consumption of paint materials.
  3. Installing the finishing coating directly on the concrete screed to reduce the consumption of glue. For example, laying parquet boards, linoleum, carpet.

A filling primer serves as the primer when it comes to getting the floor ready for painting.

Deep penetration

Dust is the reason deep penetrating primer is used. The solution is applied to crumbling screeds and any surface that "dusts."

Through the pores in the concrete, the mixture’s constituents bind together unstable particles. Dust production decreases and the subfloor gets denser.

Strengthening is the second term used to describe deep penetration soils. This is a solution of polymer and water. The mixture contains diluted styrene and acrylic in addition to additional adhesive ingredients.

Before starting the next phase of construction, the impregnation must completely dry.

Applying this kind of soil requires one or two layers. It is not advised to increase the number of layers in order to prevent adhesive materials from adhering less strongly. The primer mixture binds the particles of concrete together and penetrates to a depth of 5-7 mm. A possible consequence of this action could be a reduction in absorbency and hygroscopicity.

By composition

The primer’s characteristics are significantly influenced by the collection of parts. For particular uses, you can choose a composition with the required qualities.

Acrylic

This type is employed to firmly adhere a facing material to a concrete surface. Roughness and porosity on the screed are eliminated by the primer.

Excellent for priming floors for tiling or painting. Latex mixtures and acrylic dispersion form the foundation of the solution. Once the primer has been applied, the concrete surface forms a strong film. Acrylic primers come in various varieties.

Applying acrylic primer offers the following benefits:

  • strengthens the concrete surface;
  • protects the surface from moisture;
  • improves adhesion;
  • reduces the consumption of paints and adhesives used for finishing;
  • economical use, drying speed.

The inability to apply to ferrous metals, the unfriendliness of certain varieties to the environment, and the need for a precise ratio of water to concentrated material are among the drawbacks.

Silicone

This particular concentrated composition is unique. Silicone resins are basic soil components. The composition’s budget cost can be attributed to its simplicity.

It includes:

  • the right amount of water;
  • antiseptic;
  • silicone polymer emulsion;
  • various functional additives;
  • acrylic dispersion.

Concrete is unique in that it allows for natural ventilation because of its air permeability.

Silicone primers are designed to improve finish adhesion to the base and provide a surface on which subsequent finishing can be applied.

Silicone primer benefits include:

  1. Universality. Applied on a rough base of any material.
  2. Increased moisture resistance of the coating. Protects concrete screed from premature destruction.
  3. Simplification of subsequent finishing. Silicone composition makes application of finishing layers easier.
  4. Economy. After priming, the pores of the concrete coating are filled and finishing materials are used economically.
  5. Vapor permeability. The screed can "breathe".
  6. Environmental friendliness. The absence of hazardous substances guarantees safety for people in the room.

The silicone primer’s drawbacks include:

  1. Temperature limit. The use of the substance is permitted at temperatures from +5°C to +35°C.
  2. Requirements of the material for the quality of preliminary cleaning and drying of the surface.

Ventilation should be done in the room after applying silicone material.

Epoxy

Zinc and phosphoric acid are present in high concentrations in epoxy primer, along with highly pigmented resins. Epoxy primer is typically manufactured as a two-component mixture and applied prior to the installation of self-leveling flooring.

Advantages of the composition:

  • high adhesive properties;
  • no odor;
  • no need to use solvent;
  • absolute hydrophobicity;
  • weather resistance;
  • strength;
  • uniform drying of layers;
  • resistance to mechanical damage.

Minuses:

  • incompatibility with alkyd and polyvinyl chloride coatings;
  • duration of complete drying;
  • Forced drying cannot be used.

Epoxy primer should be worked with in a temperature range of +15°C to +35°C.

Polyvinyl acetate

Stabilizers, coloring agents, and latex (polyvinyl acetate dispersion) are all present in the mixture. These primers are typically applied to concrete bases or painted with adhesive-based mixtures. They fall under the category of fast finishing materials. The composition’s drying speed, which takes no longer than 30 to 40 minutes, is an advantage. The substance has no smell and offers a high level of screed adhesion.

But soil is rarely used because of:

  1. The presence of latex in the composition. It makes the treated surface non-breathable and leads to condensation.
  2. Restrictions on use. The primer is used only for interior work.
  3. Fast peeling.

For wet surfaces, polyvinyl acetate primer is not utilized.

Silicate

Potassium silicate constitutes the soil’s base. Additionally, the content includes:

  • alkaline components;
  • additives accelerating polymerization;
  • water solution;
  • plasticizing additives;
  • binders.

Acrylate is not present in silicate primers.

Professionals’ primers

  • high resistance to atmospheric influences;
  • large penetration depth;
  • high vapor permeability.

Minuses:

  • can be used only before silicate finishing – paint or plaster;
  • mandatory ventilation of the room when working inside;
  • need for personal protective equipment.

Silicate primer works wonders in highly humid spaces.

Which is better: selection criteria

A number of factors go into the selection of the content. It is advised to use polyurethane and epoxy compounds for concrete bases with grade strengths between M150 and M300. Use a deep penetration primer if the base has a strength of M350 or higher.

No matter what kind of primer you choose, you should use material that contains an antiseptic. This is particularly valid when operating in highly humid environments.

Considerations to make while selecting a primer are as follows:

  • scope of application – outdoors or indoors;
  • type of finishing;
  • indoor humidity level;
  • chemical composition of the primer.

It ought to possess the following qualities:

  • deep penetration;
  • formation of a water-repellent film;
  • smooth application;
  • reducing the cost of finishing materials;
  • good level of waterproofing.

Although there are compositions that work for everyone, experts advise selecting a material with a specific purpose. This will apply the mixture and improve the outcome qualitatively.

TOP 5 mixtures

Several manufacturers offer their products in the construction market. Their characteristics and usage scenarios vary. The most well-liked ones are taken into account.

Concrete Contact from Prospectors

Advantages: soil accessible as a ready-made solution, deep penetration material, frost-resistant, appropriate for various finish coatings, and utilized for both interior and exterior projects. Cons: It isn’t appropriate for surfaces that come into contact with food or water, or surfaces that don’t absorb moisture. 980 rubles was the cost.

Ceresit CT 17

Intended for the processing of porous, cellular, smooth, and dense concrete.

Advantages: excellent strengthening qualities, lack of solvents, strong penetration, improved adhesion, dust removal, eco-friendliness, and two seasons of the mixture available. Cost per 10 l: 1000 rubles.

Soil Knauf Betokontakt

Acrylic-based solution mixed with binders, sand, and specific additives. Advantages: the surface’s resistance to shedding and increased adhesive qualities follow treatment. In addition to strengthening the foundation and meeting international standards, the soil is also environmentally friendly. 20 kg costs 4700 rubles.

Acrylic AK 02

Manufacturer: Grid, a Russian company.

The material’s high quality strengthens and drains the concrete surface, enhances the concrete’s adhesion to finishing, dries quickly, and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Cons: You have to measure and add the right amount of solvent; you have to dry the concrete screed; you have to have ventilation; you have to wear personal protective equipment. Cost: 4800 rubles for a 15 kg bucket.

AK 014

Mizar Company is the manufacturer (RF).

Intended to be painted in its entirety. speaks of the kind of strengthening substances. Benefits include moisture resistance, rapid drying, low consumption, and smoothing out minor unevenness. A disadvantage is the room’s susceptibility to fire and the requirement for continuous ventilation while in use. 18 kg costs 2730 rubles.

Tools for covering screed

The following prerequisites must be met for a high-quality surface treatment:

  1. Brushes. Are needed to process hard -to -reach places, angles and delimitation lines. It is better to prepare several brushes of different sizes – brushes, radiator, flat.
  2. Rollers. You need to take cylindrical, angular rollers. Also choose options with different pile lengths for a specific type of composition. Be sure to check the consistency of the roller material and the mixture composition.
  3. Spray. The pneumatic device is convenient when processing large surfaces and allows you to apply a more even layer.

If the solution is not sold in a finished form, you will also require a container for mixing the mixture.

Step-by-step priming instructions

You should read the manufacturer’s instructions before beginning any work. Next, get your tools and personal safety equipment ready. Mixtures may be offered ready-made or dry. The primer type may cause slight variations in the application process. Strict adherence to the technological requirements is required for the material to achieve its full potential.

Nonetheless, there are general guidelines that, when followed, enable speedy and effective surface processing:

  1. Cleaning the premises. Thoroughly clean the surface of any type of dirt, vacuum, dry.
  2. Preparation of the mixture, if it is prepared in dry form.
  3. Brushing all hard-to-reach places.
  4. Treatment of the main area using a roller or spray. Wait for the layer to dry completely and reapply the primer (if necessary).

A few features exist. Waiting until the layer dries completely is necessary when applying deep penetration soil treatment. If not, the material won’t fully display its qualities. Two layers is the ideal number of layers.

Possible difficulties and errors

A list of typical mistakes

  1. Applying a large layer of primer. This increases drying time.
  2. The drying period between two layers was not maintained. Adhesion index decreases.
  3. Uneven application. Drying time varies.
  4. Poor preparation of the base – finishing material will exfoliate.

Degreasing the surface before processing is also advised. This procedure is not performed by many.

Pros and cons of primer materials

The following benefits of applying a primer to a concrete floor are:

  • surface strengthening;
  • increased adhesion, water resistance;
  • the ability to connect different materials;
  • dust removal;
  • increased service life.

Cons: The floor must be meticulously prepared, dilution and application instructions must be followed precisely, and protective gear must be worn.

Average prices for work

Professionals can be trusted with priming the surface. The following factors will affect the work’s price:

  • the volume of preparatory work;
  • the area of ​​the room;
  • the type of soil;
  • the number of layers of application;
  • the type of finishing coating.

Price range: 60–150 rubles per square meter.

Useful video

Further details regarding the video primer:

A strong and long-lasting finish can only be achieved by selecting the appropriate primer for concrete screeds. In order to avoid problems like peeling or cracking, primers aid in forging a solid bond between the screed and the flooring material.

A variety of primer types have different advantages, such as improved adhesion and moisture resistance. Comprehending these alternatives and their particular uses can have a big impact on your project’s outcome. When choosing a primer, always take the environmental factors and the unique requirements of your floor into account.

Selecting the appropriate primer is not as important as applying it correctly. Pay close attention to the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure the surface is dry and clean before applying. By paying close attention to the little things, you can prolong the life of your flooring and get the best results.

Primers have a lot of benefits, but they also have some disadvantages, like extra expense and application time. But the advantages they offer in terms of performance and durability frequently outweigh these.

You can avoid future headaches and expenses by taking the time to choose and apply the right primer. You can guarantee the longevity and success of your concrete screed project by being aware of the types, advantages, and application guidelines.

Video on the topic

Primers from Knauf. Types of soils and where they use. Repair in Stalinka Belgorod #knauf Mittel Multi

MAGIC impregnation for CONCRETE

Strengthening the screed with soil Vetonit MD16

Advantages of adesiv 400 primer

Applying primer | Primer for walls

Primer for screed. Water primer, Polyurethane primer, Epoxy primer. What is it and why?

Primer for walls and floors

=Primer all secrets/Use of primers/Concrete contact=

What factor is most important for you when choosing materials for building a house??
Share to friends
Timur Kiselev

Professional builder with 15 years of experience. I know everything about the construction of houses, cottages, bathhouses and other buildings. I will be happy to share my knowledge and experience with you.

Rate author
StroyArsenal62.com
Add a comment