Thermoplastic Markings for Davidson County Schools

Clean surface- Be sure that there are no particles, sand, or dust on it so you can get a proper bonding. If possible, use a power broom/brush, or compressed air is best used for this process, but it’s unnecessary since sweeping will work too!

Layout/ Pre-mark Markings- Know where each connecting part will go before preheating. Don’t leave any gaps between segments when outlining or “pre-marking” the area on the pavement surface next to what needs to be done, including symbols and labels (lines), numbers, etc.

Surface Preheat – Surface preheating is a necessary procedure that must be completed before applying preformed thermoplastic on high-traffic areas. The three steps to completing this task are: apply using a magnum type Heat Torch, achieving maximum output from your device by squeezing the handle and extending it outwards past 8 – 10 inches away from where you want to heat; holding up against pavement with one side of tool facing down at all times while moving around 4×4 foot sections until entire space has been covered evenly through circular motions until 275° Fahrenheit minimum temperature goal is achieved.

Place Marking- Once the surface temperature of your targeted area has reached 275°F, position one segment with exposed glass beads up. Try not to apply in pieces larger than 4′ x 4′. If using a torch similar to Magnum – use preset pilot valve setting (do not squeeze handle) and get orange-tipped flame heat application onto Preformed Thermoplastic material; do NOT operate at maximum output level! Hold the device so that nozzle is 6 inches over the target area when burning off excess thinner from previous jobs or cuts if applicable.

Heat/ Torch Marking- Begin heating the placed marking by moving the flame slowly but steadily over the material from your torch. The material must be heated to its temperature to bond with the pavement. Insufficient heat will result in inadequate bonding and failure. Overheating will sink the top coating of beads and result in markings with low retroreflective values. To ensure that heat is evenly applied to the entire marking, move the torch in a sweeping motion, approximately 2′ wide, keeping the torch’s nozzle about 6 to 8 inches above the material. Caution: Maintain a minimum distance of 6 inches between the torch nozzle and the material. Any closer will cause superficial scorching of the thermoplastic without adequate melting throughout.

NOTE: Heating the preformed thermoplastic pavement marking will cause it to soften and conform with your pavement surface. Additionally, bubbles may appear, which turn slightly darker or paler colors as well- avoid scorching any areas by moving quickly to another section!

Check bond: Inspect the recently applied markings to ensure complete bonding has occurred over the entire area. After the product cools near ambient temperature, cut an interior chisel spot where it looks like heat penetrates the least amount into the material’s surface. White products; will appear whiter than other colors.

Insufficient heat has been applied if the marking can be lifted without evidence of asphalt on its underside.

Preformed thermoplastic has been designed to provide high initial retro-reflectivity and sustained lumens throughout its useful life. The product can be supplied without pre-applied surfaces (i e reversible turn arrows). Still, when working with non-beaded thermoplastic, beads must be applied uniformly during application while still molten for adequate performance levels of both these properties.

Dry Time- The preformed thermoplastic will cool and set within a couple of minutes after application. Setting times can vary depending on the roadway temperature, thickness or thermoplastic used, and how much heat was applied during the production process. If desired, we’ll reduce their drying time significantly by covering up our markings with water afterward.