How to Prepare Masonry, Concrete and Brick for TERM-seal Aqua Block Primer

Preparing the substrate correctly is an important part of using TERM-seal Aqua Block Primer. The aim is to provide a clean, sound surface so the primer can perform its specified role before TERM-seal Aqua Block Plus is applied.

Confirm the surface is suitable

TERM-seal Aqua Block Primer is identified for masonry-related surfaces, including concrete, brick and fibrous pour concrete. Before starting, check the product label and current manufacturer instructions for the exact substrate and site conditions. If the surface is not clearly covered, obtain confirmation before proceeding.

Remember that this product is the primer component of the system. The 5 L container does not include TERM-seal Aqua Block Plus, and the primer should be used only where the associated system requires it.

Inspect the masonry first

Examine the full area before cleaning. Look for loose particles, weak or poorly bonded material, damaged mortar joints, flaking coatings, dust, dirt, grease, salts and other contamination. Pay particular attention to corners, construction joints, cracks and changes in surface texture.

Any material that cannot provide a firm base should be removed or repaired in accordance with the relevant construction requirements. Do not use the primer as a substitute for structural repairs or as a way to bond over a soft, unstable substrate.

Remove contamination and loose material

Clean the masonry thoroughly using a method appropriate for the surface and the contamination present. The supplied product information requires the substrate to be properly prepared before priming, while the product guidance for Aqua Block Plus states that masonry and concrete surfaces must be cleaned and primed with TERM-seal Aqua Block Primer.

• Remove dust, dirt, grease and loose particles.
• Strip away defective or poorly bonded coatings where present.
• Clear debris from joints, edges and recessed areas.
• Repair defective mortar joints and surface defects before priming.

New or particularly dense concrete may require additional preparation to remove surface residues or laitance. Use only a preparation method suitable for the substrate, and follow the label or professional site instructions for any cleaning chemicals, abrasive equipment or washing process.

Check moisture and surface condition

Allow the prepared area to reach the condition specified on the product label. The available product information does not provide a universal drying time, coverage rate or application-condition range for this specific 5 L pack, so do not estimate these details from another primer or coating.

Check for ongoing water entry, rising damp, condensation or other moisture problems that could affect adhesion. Where the surface remains friable, dusty, wet beyond the label allowance or otherwise unstable, stop and resolve the underlying issue before applying primer.

Prepare joints and defects

Construction joints and transitions need careful cleaning because dust and debris can prevent continuous contact. For TERM-seal Aqua Block Plus applications, available system guidance calls for the concrete surface to be thoroughly cleaned on both sides of a construction joint before the primer and subsequent barrier materials are applied.

Fill or repair unsuitable voids, damaged mortar and surface defects using a compatible repair method. Allow repairs to reach the condition required by their instructions before applying TERM-seal Aqua Block Primer. Structural cracks or movement-related defects may require assessment by a suitably qualified professional rather than simple surface filling.

Apply the primer according to the label

Once the substrate is clean, sound and suitable, apply TERM-seal Aqua Block Primer to the relevant area as directed on the container. The supplied information identifies it as a surface primer for the TERM-seal Aqua Block Plus system and does not confirm a single application method, dilution ratio, coverage figure or drying period.

• Read the directions and safety information before opening the container.
• Use the equipment and application technique specified on the label.
• Apply evenly to the prepared masonry, concrete or brick surface.
• Keep the primed area free from dust, traffic and contamination while it is treated as directed.
• Apply TERM-seal Aqua Block Plus only after the primer has reached the label-specified condition.

For porous, friable or dusty surfaces, system guidance indicates that priming is generally required before the associated Aqua Block Plus product. Do not assume that one coat, a particular thickness or a particular waiting period is correct unless it is stated in the current product directions.

Use and storage precautions

Wear the protective equipment specified on the label and provide suitable ventilation where required. Keep the product away from unauthorised users, protect it from contamination and store it as directed. Clean tools and manage waste according to the label and applicable site requirements.

The TERM-seal Aqua Block Primer is supplied in a 5 L handled container. Before beginning a larger project, confirm the current label instructions, substrate suitability and expected coverage so the quantity and work sequence can be planned accurately.