Knauf BaseCote 45 20kg

Knauf BaseCote 45 20kg

$45.74

Knauf BaseCote 45 Jointing Compound 20kg

BaseCote™ is a plaster-based setting compound used for taping and basecoating joints, corners, and screw heads on plasterboard, including SHEETROCK® and FIBEROCK®. The updated formula has a creamier, smoother texture, making it easier to apply, trowel, and scrape back. With a lighter feel and improved workability, BaseCote™ helps achieve a clean, even finish across walls and ceilings.

In stock

SKU: CEM B1 Category:

Description

Achieve the perfect foundation for your plastering projects with Knauf BaseCote 45.

Knauf BaseCote 45 is a premium, powder-based setting compound designed for the professional tradesperson and the serious DIY renovator. Formulated for superior bond strength, this 20kg bag provides a working life of approximately 45 minutes, making it the ideal choice for medium-sized projects where you need a balance between speed and workability.

This compound is specifically engineered for bedding paper tape, fiber tape, and external beadings onto plasterboard joints.1 Its low-shrinkage formula ensures a flat, durable finish that resists cracking, creating the perfect substrate for your final topping coat.2

Key Features & Benefits

 

  • Optimal Working Time: 45-minute setting time allows enough time to work without rushing, but sets fast enough to apply a second coat the same day.

  • Superior Adhesion: Excellent bond strength for bedding tapes and angle beads.3

  • Smooth Consistency: Mixes easily to a creamy, lump-free paste for effortless application.4

  • Low Shrinkage: Minimizes the risk of hollow joints or cracking as it dries.

  • Easy Clean-Up: Designed for easy scraping back before the final set.

Technical Specifications

 

Feature Detail
Weight 20kg
Type Base Compound (Setting Type)
Working Time Approx. 45 Minutes
Drying Method Chemical Set
Usage Bedding tape, second coating, filing gaps
Colour White/Off-White

How to Apply Knauf BaseCote 45: Step-by-Step Guide

 

Achieving a professional finish starts with the correct mixing and application. Follow these steps for the best results.

1. Preparation & Safety

 

  • Ensure the surface is clean and free of dust or loose particles.

  • Safety First: Always wear a P2 dust mask and safety glasses when mixing powder or sanding.

  • Use a clean bucket and clean water. Contaminated tools can accelerate the setting time.

2. Mixing the Compound

 

  1. Pour clean water into your mixing bucket (approx. 10.5L – 11.5L per 20kg bag, but start with less if mixing a smaller batch).

  2. Always add powder to water. Sprinkle the Knauf BaseCote 45 powder slowly into the water to prevent clumps.

  3. Allow the mixture to soak for 1-2 minutes.

  4. Mix thoroughly using a drill with a mixing paddle until you achieve a thick, creamy consistency.

  5. Tip: Do not use if the material has started to set (harden) in the bucket.

3. Bedding the Tape (The First Coat)

 

  1. Fill the Recess: Using a 150mm broad knife, apply a generous layer of BaseCote 45 into the recessed joint of the plasterboard.

  2. Apply Tape: Center your paper tape or mesh tape over the wet compound.

  3. Embed: Firmly run your broad knife over the tape to press it into the compound and remove air bubbles. Ensure there is still compound under the tape for adhesion.

  4. Smooth: Wipe away excess compound from the edges, leaving a smooth, flat surface.

4. Second Coat (Optional/If Required)

 

For internal corners or wider joints, a second coat of BaseCote 45 may be applied once the first coat has hardened (usually after 60–80 minutes).

  1. Scrape back any high spots or ridges from the first coat using a trowel.

  2. Apply a second layer, feathering the edges out slightly wider (approx. 200mm) than the first coat.

Important Note: BaseCote 45 is a base coat only. It dries very hard and is difficult to sand. You must finish your joint with a dedicated Topping Compound or All-Purpose Compound for the final layer to ensure a sandable, paint-ready finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: Can I use BaseCote 45 as a final coat?

A: No. BaseCote 45 sets very hard and is difficult to sand smooth. It is designed to provide structural strength. Use a topping compound for your final coat.

Q: How much water do I add?

A: A general ratio is roughly 2 parts powder to 1 part water by volume, but adjust until you reach a consistency similar to thick yoghurt.

Q: Can I mix old BaseCote with new powder?

A: No. Always clean your bucket thoroughly between mixes. Old residue acts as an accelerator and will make your new batch set instantly.

 

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