Composition and characteristics of bituminous primers, rating of the best brands and method of application

A bituminous primer is considered a fairly easy material to use. It considerably strengthens and improves the adhesive properties of the floor and the roof. The use of such a composition is recommended before merging and fixing roll roofing materials and creating waterproofing. In order to obtain a uniform coating and high adhesion, it is recommended to follow the application instructions of the product.

Composition and function of bituminous primer

The main purpose of primers is to increase the degree of adhesion. This product is based on bitumen, which has high waterproofing parameters. Therefore, it is used before fusing and fixing roll materials.

The use of a bituminous primer makes it possible to obtain the following results:

• Improve adhesion before reapplying roofing or waterproofing material.The composition is suitable for decorating floors and walls of basements, installing the base of the roof and the foundation.
• Reinforce the surface of the concrete, renew the old bituminous coatings.
• Accelerate the fusion of the roofing material. This is achieved by leveling and moisturizing the base.
• Prepare the base for the application of bituminous waterproofing.
• Protect the metal surface from corrosion before applying the decorative base.

Scope and properties

The bituminous primer is used for application on the following types of surfaces:

• bridge spans;
• flat roof structures;
• external fragments of metal pipelines;
• floor tiles;
• concrete structures;
• basement walls and floors.

Impregnation can be used not only for concrete structures. It can be applied on asbestos cement and reinforced concrete structures. It is also suitable for wooden and metal structures.

The composition prevents corrosion and protects the pipes from rotting, increasing their service life.

The main properties of a bituminous primer are:

• increased adhesion between the material and the base;
• strengthening and saturation of the treated surface;
• moisturize the surface;
• high elasticity;
• the ability to use in different temperature conditions;
• ease of application;
• anti-corrosion effect.

Advantages and disadvantages of using hardware

Primers are made from petroleum bitumen, the melting point of which is 75-80 degrees. This makes it possible to use the substance even in very hot weather. Its main advantages are:

• high drying rates - this makes it possible to prepare the surface for finishing work in a short time;
• resistance to high and low temperatures;
• high degree of humidity and airtightness;
• corrosion resistance;
• ready for use - the composition does not need to be mixed, but at increased concentration you will need to use solvents;
• high penetrating power - the substance fills pores, flaws and cracks;
• elastic consistency after drying - this ensures the tightness of the layers when shrinking from buildings or earthquakes;
• excellent spreading and short setting time - this facilitates the application of the product, and one layer is enough for a full-fledged primer.

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The bituminous primer is well absorbed into the surface, which helps to achieve a lasting effect. After its application, the surface has no seams and tackiness, which is very important for the subsequent gluing of the waterproofing.

At the same time, bituminous primers are also distinguished by some disadvantages. These include a pungent odor and the presence of toxic components in the composition. Therefore, when using such formulations, it is very important to observe safety precautions. Another disadvantage of the substance is its taint. Therefore, it is difficult to remove it from all surfaces.

Types by composition and properties

Today there are several types of primers on sale, which differ in composition and basic characteristics. They also have different purposes and methods of application.

For polymer or rubber coating

For porous coatings with a high alkali content, it is recommended to use bitumen compositions containing rubber and polymer components. The products contain inhibitors, synthetic rubber, solvents, thermoactive resins.

cold primer

It is the most popular type of primer. They must be applied cold.The advantage of substances is the ability to use at temperatures already above +5 degrees. This means that it is allowed to use these funds for almost 9 months a year. The products are sold in the form of a ready-to-use emulsion or concentrate, which must be mixed with water or a solvent.

Depending on the additional components, the following types of cold floors are distinguished:

• mineral-bituminous with mixtures of limestone;
• rubber bitumen with additives for waste rubber;
• aqueous emulsion, characterized by the most environmentally friendly properties;
• polymer substance with polypropylene.

Bitumen-polymer primer

Such formulations have a wide range of uses. They are used for processing the base of the roof, carrying out repair work, applying to cement screeds. Products are distinguished by low viscosity and perfectly fill the pores of the bases.

The most popular formulations include APP and SBS. APP sealants are characterized by a high degree of resistance to the influence of ultraviolet rays, aggressive acids and alkalis. The advantage of SBS compositions is a high degree of plasticity. They are allowed to be used in a wide temperature range.

How to choose a quality primer

When choosing a composition, it is recommended to take into account the following parameters:

• The composition of the coating to be applied over the primed base. If you need a primer for a polymer or rubber coating, you need to purchase polymer and rubber compounds.
• Features. The parameters of strength, elasticity and the presence of additives are of great importance.
• Basic components. The instructions should contain information regarding the type of surface. It can be concrete, wood or a universal compound.
• Availability of a quality certificate.
• The economy of substance.

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Ranking of the best qualities of bitumen-based floors

The best primers include the following brands:

• Technonikol is a leader in the Russian market. The company produces bituminous primers that are suitable for a variety of applications, so the composition "TechnoNIKOL 01" is considered one of the most common universal materials with waterproofing characteristics. A more concentrated analogue of the substance is the composition "TechnoNIKOL 02". It is easy to carry. Also, the tool is suitable if you need to use a large amount of soil.
• AquaMast is an environmentally friendly formula based on organic solvents. The substance can be used in combination with roll materials and in the construction of a waterproof coating.
• Bitumast - the company's assortment includes a whole range of bituminous primers with excellent technical characteristics.

Terms of use

In order for the tool to give the desired results, it is important to strictly follow the instructions for use.

Calculation of consumables

Material consumption is influenced by the viscosity of the substance and the method of its application. The most economical option is to use a spray gun to apply the product. However, this is only suitable for liquid substances that differ in their water base. It is recommended to apply thick products with a roller or a brush. It is also acceptable to use the spill method.

The approximate consumption of the mixture is indicated on the label. On average, 150-500 grams of bituminous mastic are needed per square meter. For very porous substrates with a lot of cracks, a high flow rate should be provided.

Tools required

The following types of tools may be needed to apply bituminous primer:

• Spray gun. Such a device ensures uniform application of bitumen emulsion over the entire surface and minimum consumption of the composition per square meter. In this case, the instructions should indicate the possibility of using a spray gun for the product.
• Brush. This accessory is suitable for priming small areas. It should not be used for large areas.

It should be borne in mind that fur or foam rollers should not be used for bitumen mastic. The liquid mass adheres to the surface of the instrument and causes the adhesion of its particles. As a result, the quality of the application deteriorates and the cost of the material increases.

Surface preparation

Before applying the bitumen primer, the surface must be properly prepared. To begin with, it is recommended to clean it well from debris, dust and dirt. The better the preparation, the higher the degree of adhesion.

The next stage of preparation is to prepare a primer. The process depends on the type of material. In most cases, cold emulsions are used. However, sometimes the composition needs to be slightly warmed up to certain temperature indicators.

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Primer application and drying time

It is recommended to apply the primer only in dry and warm weather. After applying the primer, the surface should be protected from moisture for 1 day.

You can apply the composition with a brush, spray gun or some types of rollers. However, not all formulations can be applied with a spray gun.It is important to carefully study the technical characteristics of the primer to ensure that this tool can be used.

Brushes are generally used for small surfaces. To apply the primer to large areas, it is worth using rollers. At the same time, it is not recommended to use fluffy tools for bitumen primer.

When using a viscous primer mixture, it is allowed to choose the pouring method. When using this method, it is recommended to pour the mass on the base and evenly distribute it over the surface with a rubber squeegee. The dumping method is very rarely used because it is considered very expensive. On average, bituminous soils dry in 6 hours.

Handling Precautions

When using bituminous mastic, it is recommended to observe the following rules:

• do not apply the composition near sources of open fire;
• carry out all work with canvas gloves;
• ensure complete ventilation in the room.

When using the composition, avoid contact with the emulsion on the skin or eyes. If the substance comes into contact with the skin, it must be washed off with a solvent. If the primer gets into the eyes, rinse them with water and consult a doctor.

What mistakes beginners make

Inexperienced craftsmen often make the following mistakes when using a primer:

• choose the wrong composition of the mixture;
• not preparing the surface for the application of the substance;
• individual protection measures are neglected.

Homemade recipes

If you cannot buy a ready-made composition, you can do it yourself. To do this, 3 kilograms of bitumen will require 1 kilogram of gasoline. To obtain the desired composition, it is recommended to proceed as follows:

• Prepare a heatproof container.
• Heat the bitumen and bring it to a boil. Mix everything to get a uniform consistency. It is forbidden to mix boiling bitumen with gasoline. It must be cooled to 80 degrees.
• Add gasoline to bitumen in small portions. Each time the composition must be thoroughly mixed.
• Filter the finished product. Undissolved fragments will reduce soil quality.

Advice from the masters

In order for the bituminous primer to lay evenly and hold for a long time, you must adhere to the following rules:

• Pay attention to surface preparation. It must be dry and clean.
• Perform work only in rooms with high-quality ventilation.
• Use personal protective equipment.
• Provide a surface moisture content not exceeding 15%.

Bituminous primer is considered an effective composition that has a wide range of applications. In order for the substance to have a lasting effect, it is important to observe the rules of its application.