The 90/10 Rule: Why Preparation is Everything
In the professional coating industry, there is a golden rule: 90% of a successful, long-lasting job is preparation, while only 10% is the actual application of the paint. If you skip the prep work, even a premium product like Rhinoluxe Shield will eventually fail. Proper preparation ensures that your waterproof coating forms a permanent, chemical bond with the surface. Here is your step-by-step authoritative guide to preparing your exterior walls for a 10-year waterproof finish.
Step 1: Deep Cleaning with MFA Technology
You cannot paint over dust, grease, mold, or old, chalking paint. Standard household detergents often leave a residue that can interfere with paint adhesion. We recommend using a professional-grade cleaner like SURFAPREP™ 7-in-1. This solution uses Magnetic Fragmentation Action (MFA) to break down contaminants at the molecular level. It dislodges grease and grime from deep within the plaster pores, creating a "coating-ready" surface. For heavy industrial grease, Rhinoluxe All-Rite is an excellent biodegradable alternative that leaves no residue.
Step 2: Substrate Inspection and Repair
Once the wall is clean and dry, inspect it for "craze cracking" or structural shifts. Hairline cracks (less than 0.5mm) can usually be bridged by the elastic nature of Shield. however, larger voids and structural cracks must be opened up and filled with a professional-grade mortar or filler. For severely damaged parapet walls or areas with high vibration, consider using Rhinoluxe Fiber Coat as a reinforced base layer before your final topcoat.
Step 3: Stabilizing with the Right Primer
New plaster is highly alkaline and porous. If you apply a topcoat directly, the wall will "suck" the moisture out of the paint too quickly, preventing it from forming a strong film. Furthermore, the alkalinity can "burn" the paint, leading to patches and peeling. Rhinoluxe Plaster Primer is an essential step. It is alkali-resistant and provides deep penetration to bind the substrate and create a uniform foundation for the Shield topcoat to "bite" into.
Step 4: Application Techniques for Longevity
Once your primer is dry, it’s time for the waterproofing system. For a functional barrier, always apply two thick coats of Rhinoluxe Shield. We recommend using a 120mm Hamilton’s Waterproofing Brush rather than a standard roller for the first coat. The brush allows you to push the paint into the nooks and crannies of the plaster, ensuring a seamless membrane. Apply at a spreading rate of 8m² per liter to ensure you achieve the correct Dry Film Thickness (DFT).
By following this rigorous preparation system, you ensure that your 10-year warranty is not just a promise, but a technical reality for your property.
