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Damp Tolerant Primers
Choose damp-tolerant primers to speed up application of floor screeds, coatings and other floor coverings including carpets, tiles, vinyl and wood, with excellent adhesion to damp concrete and asphalt. Reducing disruption and downtime to businesses, our range of damp-tolerant primers are tolerant to residual moisture in concrete floors and enable earlier access onto the floor to apply coatings, paints and coverings. Our wide collection of products includes rapid cure primers for low temperatures, low odour primers ideal for indoor applications, and options with very good chemical resistance.
402 Damp Proof Coating
2 pack epoxy resin based primer/coating, which has been developed to function as a residual construction moisture suppressant, allowing the early installation of moisture sensitive flooring in fast track building programmes. Also available in 4,000+ colour options from RAL, BS and NCS Please see 402 Damp Proof Coating - Special Colours...
Coo-Var Dampshield
Two-component resin membrane for moisture-tolerant flooring applications. Clear gloss finish. For concrete floors and screeds. Solvent-free. Professional use only.
Duram Duraprime
Water-based epoxy primer that treats and seals surfaces in preparation for later waterproofing. It can be used on both damp and dry surfaces and is especially effective for priming new concrete as it penetrates the surface, forming a strong, waterproof bond and allowing for easy overcoating.
709 MMA Damp Proof Primer
Developed as a primer for damp concrete, being used prior to any of our MMA range of coatings, mortars, and screeds. Rapid cure, even at low temperatures - from as low as -30°C*. Very good chemical resistance. Excellent adhesion to damp concrete. Impervious to water. Pre-packed units ready for use. Easily applied. Can be overcoated...
Smartkote EP90 Universal Epoxy Primer
2-pack primer for all polyurethane topcoats that provides excellent adhesion to a variety of substrates with the flexibility required for urethane. Pre-weighed components; simply add Part B to Part A and mix Exceptional bond strength to urethanes - high adhesion especially to metal and concrete Flexible – won’t crack Excellent resistance...
Watco New Concrete Primer
Primes and seals newly laid concrete for early painting. Suitable for areas subject to heavy traffic. Withstands 98% relative humidity Saves waiting for new concrete to dry out Can be applied to damp surfaces Overcoat in just 16 hours Can be used with underfloor heating systems Note: While great care is taken with the colour...
Remmers Epoxy MT 100
A special primer for matt damp substrates based on a transparent epoxy resin. Substrate-tolerant up to 6 % residual moisture (CM method). Fast curing / can be coated after a short time. Full cure from +5°C. Can be subjected to mechanical loads. Can be subjected to chemical loads. Free from plasticisers and nonylphenols.
Watco Epoxy Damp Proof Membrane
Holds back rising damp on new or old concrete and sand and cement floors. Suitable for heavy wear areas, concrete floors where a DPM has failed or was never installed, or areas of damp concrete which cannot be surface dried prior to painting. One high build (250 microns) coat is usually sufficient Withstands 98% relative humidity New...
Resimac 505 Damp Seal
A solvent-free clear epoxy coating which exhibits outstanding adhesion even to poorly prepared or wet surfaces, with a moisture reading up to 25%. This makes it the material of choice for priming green or damp concrete. For professional use only.
Osmo Moisture Barrier & Encapsulator
2-component, solvent-free, water based epoxy barrier specifically engineered to control the moisture of cementitious subfloors up to a maximum 6% CM or 90% RH. Excellent coverage - up to 30m2. Excellent water and humidity resistance. Good resistance to chemicals and corrosion. High strength - Non-flammable - Easy to apply - Alkali...
Fosroc Nitoflor DPM
2-component, solvent-free liquid applied surface damp proof membrane and residual moisture suppressant for concrete floors. Suitable for use as an overlay damp roof membrane to cementitious surfaces which were laid without an underlaying damp proof membrane. Nitoflor DPM permits early overlaying with vinyls, carpets and resin based...
Hydron Nu-Base Hydroseal
2 component epoxy resin surface damp-proof membrane. Designed to suppress the effect of residual moisture in concrete that already contains an integral D.P.M. Enables earlier access onto the floor than would otherwise be available for the application of resin finishes and other floor coverings including carpets, tiles, vinyl and wood....
Hydron Nu-Base Epoxy Floor Primer
2 pack epoxied resin bonding agent for use as a primer in conjunction with Nu-Base HB Epoxy Floor Finish. Acts as a damp-proof membrane provided no water pressure exists, and cures under damp conditions.
Tikkurila Fontefloor EP Primer
2-component water-borne epoxy lacquer that seals the concrete surface and provides adhesion to all Temafloor coatings and screeds, and Fontefloor paints, and can also be used for patching cracks and holes in concrete. Dries in 6 hours for overcoating Also used for priming of damp concrete with relative humidity over 97% prior to Fontefloor...
Tikkurila Temafloor 220W Primer
2 component solvent-free varnish used for priming of new and old concrete floors, especially where solventless and odourless products are needed. For priming of new and old concrete floors prior to laying Temafloor coatings and screeds. Good resistance against oil and grease. Suitable for priming of damp concrete (relative humidity of the...
RSL Resuprime MVT
A faster curing version of R.S. Dampshield, with overcoat times of 6 hours. A two-component epoxy resin primer, it enables even earlier access onto new or existing concrete substrates for screed and coating applications on carpets, tiles, vinyl and wood. Easy application Use on substrates with hygrometer readings <97% Solvent-free...
402 Damp Proof Coating - Special Colours
2 pack epoxy resin based primer/coating in 4,400+ colours developed to function as a residual construction moisture suppressant, allowing the early installation of moisture sensitive flooring in fast track building programmes. Readily available standard colours available here Available in Smooth and Anti-Slip* options *250 micron grade...
Mapei Mapeproof ESM
A two-component, solvent free, pure epoxy resin, used as a moisture vapour barrier on cement-based substrates containing high residual moisture. For professional use Low viscosity product with high penetration capacity in the porosity of the substrate Because of the absence of solvents, and very low odour it can be used in inhabited...
RSL Acrydur PR03
A solvent free, medium viscosity Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) rapid curing primer with good adhesion on slightly damp concrete and cementitious screeds prior to the application of Acrydur flooring systems. Recommended for use as a primer for Acrydur flooring systems which provides excellent adhesion to subsequent coats Moisture tolerance and...
Mapei Eco Prim PU 1K Turbo
1-component, quick drying, solvent-free, moisture curing polyurethane primer with very low emission of volatile organic compounds (VOC) for consolidating and waterproofing cementitious screeds. For professional use Consolidator for weak cementitious screeds Surface consolidation and dust-repelling treatment on cementitious, anhydrite and...
Ardex DPM 1 C One Coat Surface Damp Proof Membrane
1 coat damp-proof epoxy resin; After hardening, produces a membrane which can accommodate hygrometer readings up to 98% with high inherent bond strength - excellent resistance to water, grease, oil, aqueous salt solution and dilute mineral and organic acids. One coat solvent free, low viscosity, two component epoxy resin Protects the final...
Flowcrete Hydraseal DPM
2-component epoxy resin in red, yellow or natural, moisture barrier for cementitious substrates. Ideal for damp concrete surfaces where conventional primers fail. CE certified and solvent-free, ensuring environmental safety and minimal odour. Restricted to professional use.
Weber Weberfloor DPM Pro
Two-component epoxy-based damp proof membrane. For concrete and cement-based screeds. Suppresses residual moisture.
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Specialist Damp Tolerant Primers are high-performance coatings formulated to adhere to damp surfaces where standard primers would fail. These primers are specifically developed to combat the common issues that arise in moist or humid environments, ensuring reliable adhesion and optimal performance of subsequent coatings. Used primarily in construction, industrial, and maintenance applications, these primers are essential for surfaces that are continuously exposed to high levels of moisture, such as basements, tunnels, and exterior walls in high-humidity regions.
By using damp tolerant primers, building contractors, maintenance teams, and industrial users can ensure that subsequent layers of paint or other protective coatings adhere effectively, creating a strong, long-lasting barrier against moisture infiltration. This protection helps to extend the life of the structure and reduces the need for frequent maintenance and repairs, making them a cost-effective choice for damp environments.
Where Damp Tolerant Primers Are Used
Specialist Damp Tolerant Primers are crucial for a wide range of applications in industries where moisture presents a constant challenge. These primers offer exceptional adhesion on damp surfaces and ensure the durability of subsequent coatings. In various environments, from basements to industrial plants, and across numerous sectors, damp tolerant primers provide essential protection. Below is an in-depth exploration of the common uses and market sectors that benefit from these primers, highlighting where they are typically found and the businesses that rely on them.
Basement Waterproofing and Structural Damp Protection
Basements are particularly vulnerable to dampness due to their below-ground location, making them a primary site for the application of damp tolerant primers. These spaces often suffer from water ingress, leading to mould, structural damage, and degradation of materials. Damp tolerant primers are used as part of waterproofing systems to create a moisture-resistant layer, preventing damp conditions from compromising the interior space.
Industries and Sectors:
Residential Construction
In both new builds and renovation projects, contractors frequently use damp tolerant primers to protect basement walls, floors, and ceilings. This application is essential in regions with high water tables or significant rainfall, where basements are more susceptible to dampness.
Commercial Property Development
Developers constructing commercial buildings with underground levels, such as parking garages or storage areas, often rely on these primers to ensure that moisture doesn’t penetrate walls and ceilings. This is particularly common in areas where underground structures are used extensively, such as in urban centres or cities with high-density development.
Heritage Building Conservation
In the restoration of historic buildings, basements often require treatment with damp tolerant primers to preserve original stone or brick structures. These primers help protect against further moisture damage while ensuring the longevity of restoration efforts in properties such as old churches, castles, and mansions.
Exterior Wall Protection in Humid and Rainy Regions
In areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall, exterior walls are under constant threat from moisture, leading to issues like peeling paint, cracking, or efflorescence. Damp tolerant primers are used to seal exterior surfaces, providing a strong foundation for weather-resistant topcoats. This is a common application in both residential and commercial properties located in coastal or tropical regions where moisture exposure is a persistent problem.
Industries and Sectors:
Real Estate and Property Management
Property managers responsible for maintaining the exterior appearance of buildings, particularly in humid climates, apply damp tolerant primers to prevent ongoing maintenance issues caused by moisture. Apartment complexes, office buildings, and hotels are frequent users, especially in locations prone to seasonal rains or heavy storms.
Retail and Hospitality
Businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and retail stores situated in humid or coastal regions apply these primers to maintain the exterior appeal and structural integrity of their premises. The ability of damp tolerant primers to prevent water damage ensures that the building's facade remains intact and attractive to customers.
Industrial Parks
Factories and warehouses located in damp or humid environments often face moisture challenges that can lead to the deterioration of external surfaces. These industrial facilities utilise damp tolerant primers as part of their maintenance routines to ensure the long-term durability of their buildings’ exterior walls.
Tunnels and Underground Infrastructure
Subterranean structures, such as tunnels, underground car parks, and subways, are frequently exposed to groundwater seepage and high levels of condensation. These conditions can lead to significant damage if not adequately protected. Damp tolerant primers are extensively used in such environments to provide a moisture-resistant surface that supports subsequent protective coatings. This helps safeguard the structure from water ingress and corrosion.
Industries and Sectors:
Transportation Infrastructure
Public transit authorities and civil engineers use damp tolerant primers in tunnels, subways, and underground passages to ensure long-term protection against moisture. The application is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of transportation networks that are exposed to groundwater and fluctuating humidity levels.
Civil Engineering Projects
Construction companies working on large-scale infrastructure projects, such as bridges, underpasses, and drainage systems, often use damp tolerant primers to treat the concrete and steel surfaces that are regularly exposed to damp conditions.
Commercial Underground Parking
Underground parking garages attached to commercial or residential buildings frequently use damp tolerant primers to prevent water damage from groundwater seepage. This ensures that the structures are protected from the long-term effects of moisture, which can lead to deterioration or even structural failure.
Industrial Plant Maintenance
Many industrial plants, particularly those in humid environments or dealing with water-based processes, are prone to dampness. Regular exposure to water, whether from processing activities, washdowns, or environmental factors, can cause surfaces to degrade over time. Damp tolerant primers are used to protect structural elements and machinery, ensuring that they are safeguarded against moisture-related damage.
Industries and Sectors:
Water Treatment and Sewage Facilities
Water treatment plants often operate in high-humidity environments, where concrete tanks, metal surfaces, and walls are in constant contact with moisture. Damp tolerant primers are critical in these settings, providing a solid base for protective coatings that help prevent corrosion and degradation.
Food and Beverage Production
Factories involved in food production, such as dairy processing plants, breweries, or canning factories, rely on these primers to protect surfaces from frequent exposure to water and cleaning solutions. The moisture resistance offered by damp tolerant primers ensures hygiene standards are met while also protecting the structural elements of the facility.
Energy and Utilities
Power plants, particularly those in coastal regions or areas with high humidity, apply damp tolerant primers to safeguard cooling towers, storage tanks, and pipework from corrosion. These facilities require durable, long-lasting coatings that can withstand the constant presence of moisture.
Agricultural Buildings and Equipment
Agricultural facilities, including barns, greenhouses, and grain silos, are routinely exposed to damp conditions. Moisture from soil, rain, and internal condensation can damage the structures if left untreated. Damp tolerant primers provide an effective solution by creating a moisture-resistant barrier that prevents water ingress, which is particularly important in protecting valuable crops, machinery, and livestock.
Industries and Sectors:
Farming
Farms with extensive structures like barns, stables, or silos utilise damp tolerant primers to protect against the damp conditions caused by rain, irrigation systems, or the natural environment. These primers help ensure the longevity of these structures, which are vital to agricultural operations.
Greenhouses and Nurseries
Greenhouses, which are naturally humid environments, often use damp tolerant primers on their metal frames and concrete bases to prevent rust, mould, and mildew. Nurseries that rely on maintaining controlled moisture levels for plant growth also apply these primers to their internal and external structures.
Food Storage and Distribution
Grain silos, cold storage facilities, and other food storage environments require protection from dampness to avoid spoilage. Damp tolerant primers are essential for protecting the structural integrity of these facilities, particularly in regions with high humidity or regular rainfall.
Historic and Heritage Building Preservation
Heritage buildings and sites often face significant moisture-related challenges due to the porous materials, such as stone or brick, used in their construction. These materials are prone to absorbing moisture, which can lead to long-term degradation. Damp tolerant primers are widely used in heritage conservation to protect against moisture ingress without compromising the building’s historical integrity. By creating a moisture barrier, these primers help preserve the original materials while supporting restoration efforts.
Industries and Sectors:
Historic Preservation and Restoration
Conservationists working on historic properties apply damp tolerant primers to protect vulnerable surfaces from moisture. Castles, manor houses, churches, and other ancient structures benefit from these primers, which enable protective coatings to adhere while preventing further moisture damage.
Cultural Institutions and Museums
Museums housed in historic buildings, especially those in humid climates, often rely on damp tolerant primers to protect internal and external walls from dampness. This helps preserve both the structure itself and any valuable artefacts housed within it.
Government and Heritage Sites
Publicly managed heritage sites, such as national monuments and historical landmarks, use damp tolerant primers as part of their ongoing maintenance efforts. These sites often experience high visitor traffic, which can exacerbate the effects of moisture on delicate materials. The use of these primers helps ensure that these structures remain intact for future generations to enjoy.
Features and Benefits of Damp Tolerant Primers
Specialist Damp Tolerant Primers offer numerous advantages in both residential and industrial applications. Their unique properties make them indispensable in environments where moisture poses significant challenges to surface preparation, protection, and durability. Below is a detailed exploration of the key features and benefits that make these primers essential in various industries.
Moisture Resistance
Damp tolerant primers are specifically formulated to adhere to damp substrates, unlike traditional primers that require a completely dry surface for effective adhesion. This feature is critical in environments where surfaces are exposed to moisture either intermittently or continuously. The moisture-resistant formulation ensures that the primer bonds well to substrates like concrete, masonry, and even metal, without being compromised by the presence of dampness.
The primary benefit of moisture resistance is the ability to prime surfaces in environments where complete drying is not feasible. This ensures that projects can proceed on schedule without waiting for ideal drying conditions. For example, this is vital in construction projects that cannot afford delays due to weather conditions or in areas with persistent groundwater exposure.
Superior Adhesion to Varied Substrates
One of the standout features of damp tolerant primers is their versatility in adhering to a wide range of substrates. Whether applied to porous materials like brick and concrete or non-porous surfaces like metal and wood, these primers form a strong, durable bond that ensures subsequent coatings perform optimally.
This superior adhesion guarantees that topcoats will adhere evenly and effectively, preventing common problems like peeling, blistering, or flaking. This is especially beneficial in sectors like construction, where a variety of materials may need to be primed in a single project, or in industrial settings where machinery and surfaces are made from different metals and alloys.
Fast Drying and Curing Times
Damp tolerant primers are designed to dry quickly, even in high-humidity environments. This quick drying feature reduces project downtime, allowing for faster application of topcoats and overall completion. Many formulations also offer rapid curing times, ensuring that the primer reaches its full protective capacity in a shorter period.
Fast drying primers are invaluable in sectors like infrastructure development, where delays can be costly. The rapid curing process ensures that surfaces are ready for heavy use, which is particularly important in industrial facilities or high-traffic public spaces.
Corrosion Resistance
For metal surfaces exposed to moisture, corrosion is a significant risk. Damp tolerant primers often incorporate anti-corrosion properties, creating a barrier that protects metal substrates from rust and degradation. These primers are essential in marine, offshore, and industrial applications where metal structures are frequently exposed to moisture.
Corrosion resistance extends the lifespan of metal surfaces, reducing maintenance costs and the need for frequent repainting or repairs. This feature is particularly crucial for offshore platforms, pipelines, or water treatment facilities where metal structures are in constant contact with water and humid air.
Prevention of Mould and Mildew Growth
Damp tolerant primers not only protect against moisture but also help inhibit the growth of mould, mildew, and other fungi. By sealing damp surfaces, these primers prevent moisture from penetrating into porous materials like concrete, wood, or brick, creating an environment that is less conducive to microbial growth.
The ability to prevent mould growth is particularly important in residential basements, bathrooms, and commercial kitchens where dampness can lead to health concerns. This feature is also valuable in heritage conservation, where the preservation of older materials is critical and moisture-related fungal growth can cause irreversible damage.
FAQs
Can damp tolerant primers be used in outdoor applications exposed to extreme weather?
Yes, many damp tolerant primers are formulated to withstand extreme weather conditions, including rain, snow, and intense sunlight. However, it’s important to select a product specifically designed for outdoor use to ensure that it provides the necessary UV and weather resistance for long-term durability.
Is there a recommended temperature range for applying damp tolerant primers?
Most damp tolerant primers can be applied in temperatures ranging from 5°C to 35°C. However, the specific temperature range may vary depending on the product. Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure optimal application conditions, particularly in extreme hot or cold climates.
How many coats of damp tolerant primer are typically required?
Generally, one coat of damp tolerant primer is sufficient to provide the necessary moisture protection and adhesion. However, in highly porous or heavily damp conditions, a second coat may be recommended for additional protection. The number of coats can also depend on the substrate type and the thickness of the primer applied.
Are damp tolerant primers environmentally friendly?
Some damp tolerant primers are formulated with low-VOC (volatile organic compound) content, making them more environmentally friendly and suitable for use in spaces where air quality is a concern. Be sure to check the product specifications if environmental impact is a priority in your project.
Can damp tolerant primers be applied to surfaces with standing water?
No, damp tolerant primers are designed to bond to surfaces that are damp, not wet. It’s important to remove any standing water from the surface before application to ensure proper adhesion. While these primers can adhere to surfaces with high moisture content, excessive water can prevent the primer from bonding correctly.