Guide to Priming

Before tiling or levelling, certain wall and floor backgrounds must be primed for a number of reasons including:

• to reduce porosity (absorbancy) of backgrounds or bases to prevent the formation of air bubbles or pinholes
• to minimise the risk of chemical reaction with cement-based adhesives and to consolidate surfaces

Step 1 – Know your background

Before priming make sure you know what surface or background you are priming to, and what adhesive you are going to use. This is because ARDEX P 51 can be used diluted or undiluted, depending on what you’re tiling to, or whether you’re using a cement-based or ready-mixed adhesive.

Step 2 – Check the dilution and number of coats required

ARDEX P 51 Primer can be applied with one coat on a number of different substrates, including smooth and non-porous surfaces, calcium sulphate/anhydrite screeds, rough concrete, power floated concrete, gypsum plaster, blockwork, internal cement screeds and more.

Visit the ARDEX website for full dilution information.

Step 3 – Shake the container well before use.

Step 4 – Ensure the surfaces are free from dirt, grease and other loose materials.

Step 5 – Brush down highly polished surfaces with a stiff bristled brush before priming.

Step 6 – Apply one coat of primer

• For mix ratio see Step 2. Apply with a clean brush, sponge or roller.

Step 7 – Ensure even coverage throughout.

Step 8 – Allow to dry.

Allow to dry thoroughly for at least 15-30 minutes (depending on atmospheric conditions) before applying adhesive or leveller.

When tiling or levelling over non-absorbant surface such as existing ceramic or porcelain tiles, DPMs or epoxy coatings, we recommend applying ARDEX P 4 Ready Mixed Rapid-Drying Primer or ARDEX P82 or R 3 E Epoxy Primers.

Consult the product data sheets for further information and guidance.