A true trade essential, PVA is a versatile solution for a wide range of jobs on site. Perfect for priming surfaces, bonding materials or sealing porous areas, it helps ensure better adhesion and a reliable, professional-quality result.
Suited to plaster, wood, paper and more, PVA is fast to apply and dependable under real working conditions. Whether you're preparing walls ahead of decorating or carrying out repair work, it's a must-have for any trade toolkit.
Our products
Super Concentrate PVA
EVO-STIK Super Concentrate PVA is a highly effective adhesive, primer, bonding agent a…
General purpose PVA
EVO-STIK General Purpose PVA is a reliable, multi-functional adhesive, primer, sealer …
Waterproof PVA
EVO-STIK Waterproof PVA is a general purpose adhesive, primer, sealer and dustproofer,…
Contractors PVA
EVO-STIK Contractors PVA is a plaster bonding agent that primes and seals porous surfa…
Help & advice
Explore our latest articles for expert insight into sealant technology, product performance and best-practice application. From choosing the right sealant for the job to understanding how different formulations perform on site, our content gives you the technical knowledge to work with confidence.
Whether you're comparing product types, keeping up with new innovations, or picking up practical tips to improve your results, our articles are built to support real decisions on real jobs.
PVA FAQs
Can General Purpose PVA be used in wet conditions?
No. EVO-STIK General Purpose PVA is not suitable for use in wet conditions. For applications exposed to moisture, use EVO-STIK Waterproof PVA instead.
Can I use Super Concentrate PVA in wet areas?
No. EVO-STIK Super Concentrate PVA is not suitable for use in wet areas. Instead, use EVO-STIK Waterproof PVA.
Can I use General Purpose PVA as a paint primer?
No. EVO-STIK General Purpose PVA is not suitable for use as a primer for paint.
Can I use Super Concentrate PVA as a paint primer?
No. EVO-STIK Super Concentrate PVA is not suitable for use as a primer for paint.
Can I use Waterproof PVA as a paint primer?
No. EVO-STIK Waterproof PVA is not suitable for use as a primer for paint.
Can I use Waterproof PVA to seal a concrete ornament in a fish pond?
No. EVO-STIK Waterproof PVA is not intended for use as a surface coating and may turn hazy white when wet.
Do I need to PVA a painted wall before plastering?
Only if the paint is firmly bonded. EVO-STIK Contractors PVA should not be applied over loose, flaking or poorly adhered paint, as this can prevent the new plaster from bonding properly. If the paint is sound, the wall can be primed with a diluted coat of EVO-STIK Contractors PVA, followed by a neat coat, and plastered while the surface is still tacky. If the paint is unstable, it should be removed first to expose a suitable surface for plastering.
How long should I leave Contractors PVA before plastering?
Allow the diluted primer coat of EVO-STIK Contractors PVA to dry completely. The neat bonding coat should be plastered over while still tacky and must not be allowed to dry. Depending on temperature, humidity and the surface, the open time is typically around 5 to 10 minutes.
How many coats of Contractors PVA should I use before plastering?
For porous surfaces, apply one diluted coat of EVO-STIK Contractors PVA to prime the surface, followed by one neat coat just before plastering. The neat coat should remain tacky when the plaster is applied. Non-porous surfaces typically only require one undiluted coat used as a tack coat.
What colour is General Purpose PVA?
EVO-STIK General Purpose PVA is white when applied and dries to a transparent film.
What does PVA stand for?
PVA stands for Polyvinyl Acetate.
What happens if I don't use Contractors PVA before plastering?
On porous surfaces, plaster can dry too quickly and unevenly, which may weaken adhesion and increase the risk of cracking. EVO-STIK Contractors PVA helps regulate suction and stabilise dusty surfaces, creating a more controlled and consistent base for plaster. Without it, plaster may not bond as reliably, particularly on highly absorbent substrates.
What is Contractors PVA used for?
EVO-STIK Contractors PVA is used to prepare porous surfaces for plastering by reducing suction, sealing dust and improving adhesion. It can also be applied neat as a tack coat to help new plaster bond to both porous and non-porous surfaces.
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