Paint TechTalk with Lettie: Can I Apply Skimcoat on Top of Plexibond?

Dear Lettie,

Can I apply skimcoat if I’ve already applied Plexibond?

From,
Boysen User M

Hi, Boysen User M.

Unfortunately, we do not recommend applying skimcoat after Boysen Plexibond. Skimcoats are only formulated to be applied on bare concrete—so no, not Plexibond. There are some things you can do though.

To Correct Surface Imperfections

Part of the use of skimcoat is to address concrete imperfections. If this is your goal, you could correct imperfections instead with putty. For this, I recommend Boysen Acrytex Cast.

Boysen Acrytex Cast is an acrylic solvent-based putty for hairline cracks and minor surface imperfections less than 1 mm. It is watertight, able to repel water and prevent seepage, and it can be used on your Plexibond surface.

To use it, wait for your Boysen Plexibond to dry for at least a day. Then, apply a primer like Boysen Permacoat Flat Latex B-701. When your primer is dry, apply Boysen Acrytex Cast wherever needed. Spot prime where you placed the putty. Then, apply a topcoat like Boysen Permacoat Latex in two coats and whatever sheen and color you prefer.

If you would like to use another paint product suitable for concrete, like Boysen Acrytex (that’s great for exterior concrete walls) or Boysen Acqua Epoxy (that can be used on concrete floors like roof decks), make sure you switch out the primer for one that matches your topcoat.

What to Use On Top of Plexibond

To help ensure your Plexibond is as durable as it can be, always apply paint on top. Allowing it to be directly exposed to the elements, like sunlight and heavy rains, leads to a higher likelihood of cracks.

Here is a list of topcoats you can use:

• Boysen Permacoat Latex
• Boysen Wallguard
• Boysen Acrytex
• Boysen Acqua Epoxy

Again, remember to use a primer that’s appropriate for your chosen topcoat. If you’re not sure what it is, you can always check its painting schedule.

Aside from paint, you can also install tiles on top of Plexibond. If you know beforehand that this is what you’re going to do—like when you’re waterproofing a shower area, for example—aim for a smooth finish. It’s so that you have an even surface to work with when it’s time to place your tiles.

So, there are your options. You can use putty if you want to fix minor imperfections and you can apply paint or tiles on top of Plexibond. Good luck!

Your painting partner,
Lettie

Need advice too? Paint TechTalk with Lettie is here for you. Comment your painting question below or send an email to ask@myboysen.com.