Concrete Coating Primer Guide: Choosing the Right Epoxy Primer for Every Surface
By Revival Concrete Coatings
Before any concrete coating system can shine, it needs a strong foundation—and that starts with the right primer. At Revival Concrete Coatings, we use primers not only for adhesion, but also to manage moisture, cracks, and surface conditions.
This guide covers the four most common types of primers used in professional concrete coating systems:
- Water-Based Epoxy Primers
- Waterproofing Membranes
- 100% Solids Epoxy Primers
- Moisture Vapor Barrier Primers
1. Water-Based Epoxy Primers
Overview: Thin, low-odor, and easy to apply—these are great all-purpose primers that work well in residential or indoor settings.
Best For:
- Indoor concrete surfaces with light traffic
- Residential garages or basements
- Smooth, porous concrete
Benefits:
- Low VOCs, ideal for occupied buildings
- Great penetration into porous surfaces
- Quick drying and cost-effective
Limitations: Not suitable for high-moisture environments. May require multiple coats.
2. Waterproofing Membrane Primers
Overview: Flexible, elastomeric membranes that form a liquid-proof shield over concrete. Ideal for outdoor or elevated surfaces.
Best For:
- Patios, balconies, rooftop decks
- Areas exposed to rain or freeze/thaw
- Surfaces with hairline cracks
Benefits:
- Waterproofs and bridges minor cracks
- Protects from surface water and ice
- Compatible with many topcoat systems
Limitations: Requires proper substrate prep and slightly higher material/labor cost.
3. 100% Solids Epoxy Primers
Overview: Thicker and stronger than other options, these primers are built for industrial-grade adhesion and surface repair.
Best For:
- Warehouses and industrial facilities
- Commercial kitchens and garages
- Pitted, spalled, or damaged concrete
Benefits:
- Self-leveling and filling ability
- Extremely durable and chemical-resistant
- VOC-free formula
Limitations: Short working time—requires skilled installers. Not flexible for crack-bridging.
4. Moisture Vapor Barrier Primers
Overview: These primers block moisture vapor from coming up through the slab—essential in high-MVER areas.
Best For:
- Basements or on-grade concrete
- New slabs or green concrete
- Areas with no vapor barrier underneath
Benefits:
- Seals high-MVER concrete (up to 25 lbs)
- Prevents bubbling, delamination, and coating failure
- Compatible with most topcoat systems
Limitations: Requires moisture testing and adds time to project prep.
Quick Comparison Table
| Primer Type | Flexibility | Vapor Block | Water Block | VOC Level | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water-Based Epoxy | No | Low | No | Low | Indoor, light traffic |
| Waterproofing Membrane | Yes | Low | High | Medium | Decks, patios, balconies |
| 100% Solids Epoxy | No | Medium | Low | None | Heavy-duty industrial areas |
| Moisture Vapor Barrier | No | High | Low | None | Basements, new slabs |
Need Help Choosing the Right Primer?
Every surface is different—and so is every project. At Revival Concrete Coatings, we’ll assess your slab, environment, and intended use to design a primer and coating system built to last.
Contact us today to schedule your on-site consultation:
- 📧 Email: hello@revivalconcretecoatings.com
- 📞 Phone: (515) 850-7192
