Product Description
Palatine Bitumen Primer is a cold-applied solvent-based bitumen primer formulated to penetrate and seal porous substrates before the application of bituminous waterproofing membranes, felt systems, and sheet coverings. Acting as a bitumen sealer for concrete and metal surfaces, it consolidates the substrate and creates a receptive base that significantly improves the adhesion and longevity of the finished waterproofing system.
Whether you need a primer before bituminous felt roofing, a bitumen primer for metal surfaces such as mild steel and zinc, or a treatment for lightweight concrete screeds, this product provides the right foundation. Its low viscosity allows it to penetrate deeply into porous substrates, ensuring maximum bonding for whatever waterproofing system follows.
Where to Use It
Bitumen Primer is suitable for a wide range of substrates where a bituminous waterproofing system is to be applied:
- Mild Steel
- Zinc
- Lead
- Concrete
- Slate
- Asbestos Cement
- Lightweight Concrete Screeds
Application Areas:
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Roofing Systems: An excellent base coat for flat roofs, corrugated fibre cement sheetings, asphalt roofs, and felt patches before applying overcoats or flashing tapes.
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Masonry & Concrete: Ideal for treating structural brickwork, concrete retaining walls, lintels, and foundations to prevent damp migration below ground level.
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Metal Protection: Provides a reliable corrosion-resistant undercoat for weathered iron, steel beams, and external piping layouts.
Bitumen Sealer for Concrete — Why Prime First?
Concrete and screeded surfaces are highly porous. Without a bitumen sealer for concrete, the waterproofing membrane can adhere poorly, leading to blistering, delamination, and premature failure. Palatine Bitumen Primer penetrates the surface, seals capillary pores, and ensures the bituminous system bonds firmly — extending the life of the entire waterproofing installation. This is why BS Code of Practice 144, Part 3 specifically mandates its use before felt applications to concrete.
Once this primer dries to a uniform film, it forms the perfect base for our trade-grade Black Bitumen Paint or high-exposure roof coatings
Bitumen Primer for Metal Surfaces
As a bitumen primer for metal surfaces, this product creates a strongly bonded bituminous film on mild steel, zinc and lead. On metals, the primer prevents moisture ingress at the interface between the metal substrate and the waterproofing layer — a common cause of corrosion under felt. Wire brush to remove loose rust before application and, where significant corrosion exists, treat with a rust inhibitor first.
Key Benefits
- Effective bitumen sealer for concrete, screeds, metal and slate
- Essential primer before bituminous felt roofing — BS CoP 144:Part 3 compliant
- Deep-penetrating solvent-based bitumen primer for maximum substrate consolidation
- Fast touch-dry time of 30–60 minutes for efficient project scheduling
- Rain-resistant within 20–30 minutes of application
- Will adhere to damp (but not wet) surfaces, offering versatility on site
- Available in a range of container sizes from 1L to 1000L IBC for large-scale projects
Surface Preparation
Step 1 – Ensure all application surfaces are structurally sound, completely clean, and entirely free from oil, grease, dirt, embedded dust, and loose structural debris. The substrate must be thoroughly cleared to guarantee deep product penetration and maximum chemical adhesion
Step 2 – On steel, iron, or weathered metal profiles, clear away all loose, flaking rust using a stiff wire-bristled brush. Where there are areas of heavy rust or deep corrosion, pre-treat these specific zones with a high-performance rust inhibitor, such as Carboxide Red Oxide Primer. Allow it to cure fully before applying the primer. For weathered structural iron or steel work, look at our anti-corrosive metal primers and undercoats for advanced rust prevention
Step 3 – Substrates should ideally be completely dry to achieve the best bond. However, this advanced formulation is engineered to successfully tolerate and adhere to damp surfaces. CRITICAL: Do not apply to wet surfaces, standing puddles, or areas with visible water running over the substrate
Application
You can apply this product easily using either a paint brush or spray equipment.
Stir well before use. Apply evenly across the surface in one generous coat.
Ensure complete coverage, particularly at joints, edges, and around fixings.
Drying & Overcoating
Touch dry in approximately 30–60 minutes.
Fully dry in approximately 3–6 hours (depending on temperature and humidity).
The primer can handle sudden rain and becomes rain-resistant within 20 to 30 minutes after you apply it.
Important — BS CoP 144:Part 3:Clause 4.6.1:
If you are priming concrete or cement screeds, you must wait at least 2 hours after applying the primer before putting down your waterproofing sheets or topcoats. This gives the chemical solvents enough time to completely evaporate so they do not get trapped underneath.
Cleaning of Tools
Clean brushes and spray equipment immediately after use with paraffin or white spirit. Wipe up any spillages before the product hardens.
Storage
This product will last indefinitely as long as it is kept in its original, undamaged, and tightly sealed containers
Store containers in a cool, dry place away from heat, open flames, sparks, and direct sunlight.
Q: What is Bitumen Primer used for?
A: Bitumen Primer is used to seal and prime porous surfaces before applying bituminous waterproofing systems, felt roofing membranes, or bituminous sheet coverings. It improves adhesion and ensures the waterproofing system performs as intended.
Q: What surfaces can I apply Bitumen Primer to?
A: It can be applied to a wide range of surfaces including mild steel, zinc, lead, concrete, slate, asbestos cement, and lightweight concrete screeds. Surfaces must be clean and free from grease, dirt, and loose material.
Q: Can I apply Bitumen Primer to a damp surface?
A: Yes — Bitumen Primer will adhere to damp surfaces, but not to wet surfaces. Allow standing water or puddles to drain or dry before application.
Q: How long do I need to wait before applying the waterproofing system?
A: Generally, the primer should be touch dry (30–60 minutes) before overcoating. However, on concrete or screeded surfaces, BS Code of Practice 144:Part 3:Clause 4.6.1 requires a minimum drying margin of 2 hours to ensure all solvent has evaporated.
Q: What happens if it rains shortly after application?
A: Bitumen Primer becomes resistant to rainfall within 20–30 minutes of application, making it suitable for use in changeable weather conditions.
Q: How do I clean tools after use?
A: Clean all brushes and spray equipment immediately after use with paraffin or white spirit. Wipe up any spillages before the product sets.
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