External roofs, balconies, and plant areas demand a finish that stands up to constant UV exposure and light foot traffic without compromising safety. Gripset LS provides the essential hard-wearing, non-slip top coat, engineered to enhance the durability and performance of underlying waterproofing membranes. It delivers a safe, weather-resistant surface where pedestrian access is required, ensuring long-term protection and peace of mind on exposed outdoor areas.

Why this product exists

Gripset LS is formulated as a robust, non-slip, UV-stable finish coat, specifically for application over suitable Gripset liquid waterproofing membranes. Its purpose is to fortify the waterproofing system, providing an additional layer of protection against the elements and light pedestrian traffic. This top coat is not a standalone waterproofing membrane, but an integral part of a durable system, prolonging the life of the underlying membrane by shielding it from environmental stressors and providing a safe, trafficable surface.

The numbers that matter

• Shore A Hardness (ASTM D2240-97) of 108: This high Shore A value indicates exceptional surface toughness, providing a hard-wearing finish capable of resisting abrasion from light foot traffic and impacts in exposed areas like rooftops and plant access zones.
• Elongation (AS1145.3) of 45%: While not elastomeric for crack bridging, this flexibility ensures the coating can accommodate minor substrate movement and temperature fluctuations without cracking, maintaining integrity over its service life as a protective layer over a dedicated membrane.
• Accelerated Weathering (Xenon Arc) of 1.7%: This low percentage demonstrates superior resistance to UV degradation and weathering, crucial for maintaining performance and appearance on permanently exposed external surfaces without premature chalking or embrittlement.
• Water Vapour Transmission (ASTM E96 Desiccant method) of 2 g/Pa.s.m²: This low transmission rate highlights the coating's ability to resist ponding water and moisture ingress, contributing to the long-term durability of the entire waterproofing system.

What it's like to use

Gripset LS applies directly over a cured Gripset base liquid membrane such as Gripset 38FC, P39, or Xpress Multi Pro. Surfaces must be clean, sound, and dry. Mechanically remove any loose material or contaminants. Fill voids or non-structural cracks with products like Gripset 11Y or other RLA repair mortars. Concrete requires 28 days of cure, while cement render or screeds need 7 days.

Apply Gripset LS by brush or medium nap roller. For optimal performance, a minimum of two coats is required, achieving a total dry film thickness of 1.0 mm (1.5 litres/m²). For enhanced durability in higher wear areas, a third coat can be applied to reach 1.5 mm dry film thickness (2.0 litres/m² total). Apply subsequent coats in alternating directions and use a wet film gauge to ensure correct coverage and film build. Recoat after 4 hours, allowing 24 hours for light foot traffic and 10 days for full cure, noting that cooler or humid conditions will extend these times. Clean tools with water while the product is still wet; dried material requires mechanical removal.

Where this product excels

Gripset LS is regularly specified for projects demanding durable, slip-resistant, and UV-stable finishes over waterproofing membranes:

• Concrete roofs and membrane-covered tiled roofs: Provides a protective, slip-resistant top coat, often specified for the southern end of roofs requiring enhanced UV protection.
• Balconies, podiums, and walkways: Functions as a non-slip, UV-stable top coat for pedestrian areas, often specified alongside damp concrete primer and UV-stable roof membranes.
• Exposed plant and maintenance areas: Delivers a hard-wearing, non-slip finish in areas subject to light foot traffic and constant environmental exposure.

How it fits in a real system

Gripset LS functions as the final, exposed layer within a comprehensive waterproofing system. Real-world specifications consistently show it applied as the last step in sequences designed for concrete roofs, mezzanine plant areas, and parapets. A typical system begins with a suitable primer, such as a two-part epoxy damp concrete primer, followed by a primary liquid waterproofing membrane like Everflex WPUV UV-Stable Waterproofing Membrane. Gripset LS then forms the durable, non-slip, UV-resistant top layer, completing the system and protecting the underlying membrane from environmental wear and tear.

Choose this when

• When a hard-wearing, non-slip finish is required for external rooftops, balconies, or podiums subject to light foot traffic and permanent UV exposure.
• When needing to enhance the durability and provide UV protection for an underlying Gripset liquid waterproofing membrane.
• When specifying a robust, weather-resistant topcoat for exposed plant and maintenance areas or walkways.

Don't use this when

• Not for: Use as a standalone waterproofing membrane or for elastomeric crack bridging. Always apply over a suitable Gripset base liquid membrane.
• Not for: Areas subject to vehicular traffic or heavy commercial foot traffic.
• Not for: Application in areas with rising damp or negative hydrostatic pressure.
• Not for: Application when rain is imminent or when surface temperatures are below 5°C or above 35°C.