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How to Successfully Apply Anti-Skid Surfacing – A Step-by-Step Guide

Posted by Grant Shewan - Red Stag Materials on 11th Apr 2025

How to Successfully Apply Anti-Skid Surfacing – A Step-by-Step Guide

 

Anti-Skid Sheets enhance surface safety and durability. Available in Buff, Red, Green, and Dark, they can be purchased on the Red Stag Materials website. These 600mm x 1000mm sheets provide excellent skid resistance and are suitable for various substrates, including bitumen, concrete, and block paving.

1. Preparing for Installation

Before applying the anti-skid sheets, ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free from loose materials, dust, grease, or foreign matter. Proper preparation is essential for optimal adhesion and long-lasting results.

2. Application on Bituminous Substrates

  1. Clean and Dry: Thoroughly clean the surface and remove moisture using a gas burner.
  2. Optional Primer: Apply a suitable tack coat primer such as SWARCO PREFORMED Primer Spray 200 or SWARCO PRIMER Roll 100 if required.
  3. Lay the Sheet: Position the Anti-Skid Sheet on the pre-heated area with the aggregate side facing up.
  4. Heat the Sheet: Use a heat gun or gas torch with wide heat dispersion, keeping it approximately 30cm above the material. Move continuously to avoid scorching.
  5. Check for Fusion: The material should fuse evenly with no visible joins, and the edges should taper into the substrate.
  6. Cool and Inspect: Allow 5–10 minutes for cooling before inspecting the adhesion.

3. Application on Concrete and Other Substrates

  1. Clean and Dry: Ensure the surface is completely clean and dry. Do not force-dry concrete.

  2. Mandatory Primer: Apply SWARCO PREFORMED Primer Spray 200 or SWARCO PRIMER Roll 100 evenly across the surface.

  3. Allow Primer to Dry: Wait until the primer is fully dry before proceeding. Do not force dry the concrete surface.
  4. Follow Bituminous Application Steps: Continue from step 3 in the bituminous application guide.

Note: New concrete surfaces should cure for at least 28 days before application.

4. Application on Block Paving / Granite Setts

Block paving and granite setts present unique challenges due to potential surface movement and low porosity. Follow these guidelines:

  • Use Primer: Apply SWARCO PREFORMED Primer Spray 200 or SWARCO PRIMER Roll 100.
  • Assess the Surface: Ensure minimal movement between blocks and sufficient primer absorption.
  • Apply Anti-Skid Sheets: Follow the heating and cooling steps from the bituminous application process.

5. Final Inspection and Troubleshooting

  • Adhesion Check: Test adhesion by attempting to lift the sheet edges with a screwdriver.
  • Bond Failure: If the sheet lifts cleanly without substrate residue, reapply heat.
  • Substrate Issue: If substrate residue is visible, investigate the substrate integrity before proceeding.

6. Packaging and Storage

  • Packing: Supplied in cardboard boxes, typically containing 5 sheets per box.
  • Shelf Life: 12 months when stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage Advice: Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme cold to prevent brittleness.

7. Product Links

By following these step-by-step instructions, you'll ensure a professional and durable application of anti-skid surfacing, enhancing safety and surface performance for years to come.

Thermoplastic sheets are applied using the same method as our preformed thermoplastic rolls and overbanding strips.

Watch the video to learn more...