Yes. This procedure should only be considered as an optional procedure in areas with aggressive snowplow policies. It should only be used on new, hot, freshly laid asphalt. Contact Flint for inlay application instructions.

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Can I pour the PreMark Sealer into an appropriate spray container for easier dispensing?

Yes, you can pour the PreMark Sealer into an appropriate spray can or other type of application device for easier dispensing.

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Can I use a left turn arrow as a right turn arrow by simply flipping the material and putting the beaded side down?

No, the exposed beaded side should always be facing up to form proper application and retroreflectivity. Non-beaded arrows are reversible; for this type of arrows beads are hand-cast during heating on-site as opposed to time of manufacture.

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Can PreMark® be applied on fresh new asphalt?

Yes! The bond between PreMark® and new asphalt is superior due to the fact the new asphalt has plenty of bitumen on the surface and PreMark® is composed of resins which are designed to bond with the bitumen.

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Can PreMark® be applied on new chip seal?

PreMark® is very compatible with chip seals as it is a thermoplastic which actually fuses with the road surface. In fact, the thermoplastic will flow into the “nooks and crannies”. Prior to application, all the loose aggregate must be worn away by traffic or blown away using compressed air. This is critical as the surface to which PreMark® adheres must be attached to the road itself to work.

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Can PreMark® be applied on top of paint or tape?

PreMark® should not be applied on top of tape. PreMark® may bond to the tape but the tape may not have a proper bond to the road surface. The performance of the PreMark® will be directly related to the adhesion of the tape. During the application of the PreMark®, the heat will adversely affect any bond the tape may have with the road surface. Paints will become a barrier between PreMark® and the road surface. The rule of thumb is PreMark® should not be applied on top of paint. However, there are a few exceptions. If the paint is just a thin mist and the bitumen will “pop through”, then the PreMark® will work. In addition, if most of the paint is worn away, the application will work assuming that the PreMark® and the bitumen are able to combine. Prior to attempting to apply PreMark® on a painted surface, heat a small area and observe whether the bitumen comes through the paint. If it does not, remove the paint by heating it or grinding it off. If the bitumen does come through, then the application should work fine. Just remember to do the chisel test to ensure adequate bond.

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Can PreMark® be applied on top of slurry seal?

The answer to this question is not so straightforward because there are so many types and qualities of slurry seal. Some slurry seals, when heated, lose their adhesion to the road surface. In those cases, PreMark® will not work. In other situations, the slurry seal can “take the heat”.
The rule of thumb: check the bond by doing a chisel test. Heat down a small piece of PreMark® (less than 3’). Once the material has cooled, do the chisel test and see of there is asphalt embedded on the back of the PreMark®.

If the answer is no, PreMark® is not the right product for the job.
If the answer is yes, then proceed with the PreMark® application.

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Can PreMark® be applied to very coarse chip seal or open grade asphalt?

If the chip seal is very coarse, it may be cost-effective to apply two layers of PreMark® instead of one. Because PreMark® is not a tape, it will form around the uneven road surface. If the surface is barely covered by the 125 mil material, then adding another layer of PreMark® will ensure the desired lifetime. Make sure that you heat the first layer of PreMark® prior to applying and heating the second layer.

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Can PreMark® be inlaid?

Although PreMark® can be inlaid, in most cases, there is no reason to do so. PreMark® was engineered for use in intersections were maximum wear and tear is present. PreMark® does not slip or peel up. PreMark® is not a tape; it is a thermoplastic which becomes part of the asphalt. Therefore, there is no reason to spend extra money to inlay a product which is designed for the surface of the roadway.

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Can PreMark be applied in any temperature?

Yes. You do not need to pre-heat the substrate so this allows you to apply the material in any temperature. Keep in mind, the colder the temperature, the more brittle the material will be. Also it will take a little more heat to get the thermoplastic to flow.

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Can PreMark be applied on top of hot-applied thermoplastic?

Yes, PreMark can be applied on top of hot-applied thermoplastic provided that these materials are well bonded to the road surface. You should scrape off any thermoplastic that is loose and then remove moisture. The surface must be clean.

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Can PreMark be cleaned?

PreMark can be cleaned by using a non-hazardous detergent and a pressure washer.

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Do de-icers/salts affect the application of PreMark?

Yes, they will interfere with the bonding process. If salt or other de-icers have been used, then you must wait until 2 or 3 heavy rainfalls have washed the chemicals off the road prior to applying the material. Road salts and de-icers can also be removed by pressure washing the surface prior to applying PreMark.

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Does PreMark have a shelf-life?

Yes. The guaranteed shelf life for PreMark that has been kept in its original sealed package is one year.

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Do I have to use the Flint 2000EX to apply PreMark?

The Flint 2000EX is specially designed for applying preformed thermoplastic because the fan-shaped nozzle ensures even heating and reduces the likelihood that the surface glass beads will sink too much which can result in lower initial retroreflectivity. However, other propane heat torches can still be used but with caution so that too much direct heat doesn't sink the beads.

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What is ViziGrip®?

Specially made for crosswalks, bike lanes, accessibility markings and other pedestrian uses, ViziGrip^®is a unique feature that can be added to PreMark to ensure that skid resistance and retroreflectivity are maximized.
To maximize skid/slip resistance, Flint Trading recommends using PreMark with ViziGrip in areas with pedestrian/cyclist traffic such as crosswalks, intersections, bike paths, and parking facilities.

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How does PreMark® perform on old asphalt?

PreMark® is designed to last six to eight times longer than paint. Consequently, if the age of the asphalt is such that it will be repaved before the PreMark® would wear out, it is not the right product for the job. In order for PreMark® to bond to the asphalt road surface, the bitumen must rise to the top and fuse with the performed thermoplastic. If the asphalt is so old and dry that the bitumen will not rise to the surface when heated, then it must be treated as a concrete and a sealer must be used. This scenario does not happen often. In fact, more often than not, older asphalt simply requires more heat than new asphalt in order to bring the bitumen to the surface.

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How does PreMark hold up to snowplows?

While no marking is totally snowplow resistant, you will get better results with PreMark if you feather the leading edges with a putty knife while the material is still soft. This is not necessary if the material is applied in the spring or summer because traffic will knead the material down adequately before the next winter. You can also apply extra heat to the leading edges causing the material to flow more to create a tapered edge that is less likely to catch the snowplow blades. PreMark is used often in colder regions of the country with much success.

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How do you cut PreMark?

You should use a knife to score PreMark and carefully break it along the score. In warm weather you can use scissors.

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How do you know when the PreMark material is bonded?

You must perform a chisel test to assure that a proper bond has been achieved. When the material is pulled back, a portion of the underlying asphalt should also lift with the marking.

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How do you remove preformed thermoplastic if you need to change your markings layout?

Keep in mind preformed thermoplastic is a permanent marking, so it is hard to remove all of it once it has been thoroughly heated. You can heat and scrape, grind or water blast to remove the thermoplastic.

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How long do you have to wait after a rainfall to apply PreMark on asphalt? On concrete?

For asphalt, as soon as the has stopped, PreMark can be applied if moisture is removed using the propane heat torch. On concrete surfaces, Flint recommends that you wait 24 hours after precipitation has stopped before applying PreMark.

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How should PreMark be stored/handled before application?

PreMark should be stored flat and kept cool/dry if possible. Do not drop/lean against anything. Handle material and boxes with both hands.

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How soon can PreMark be opened to traffic after it is applied?

PreMark should cool until firm to the touch before allowing traffic. This can vary based on road and air temperature but, on average, traffic is allowed within just a few minutes following application.

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Is PreMark® preformed thermoplastic a cold or hot tape?

Neither! PreMark® is a true thermoplastic supplied in a preformed shape. Preformed thermoplastic requires heat during application to bond to the road surface. For example, a cold-applied tape cannot also be referred to as a preformed thermoplastic simply by the nature of its composition and method of application. PreMark® was not designed to function as a tape. Tapes, whether cold or hot, all have road temperature requirements. These road temperature requirements have a direct effect on the ease of application and time of year that the material can be applied. PreMark® has no road temperature requirements meaning the surface does not have to be preheated to a specific temperature prior to application. Because PreMark® is a “true” thermoplastic the material itself can withstand the temperature necessary to chemically fuse the material to the road surface.

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Is there anything I can do to speed up the cooling process?

To speed up the cooling process you can spray with cool water.

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What are the temperature restrictions for applying PreMark?

Temperatures can be as low as the crew can tolerate and PreMark can adhere to the road surface. There are no minimum air or road temperature requirements.

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What do I do if I get hot preformed thermoplastic on my skin?

If you get molten material on your skin, flush the area immediately with plenty of water and then seek medical attention. Do not attempt to pull the molten material off of your skin.

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What is the difference between PreMark and HotTape?

PreMark does not require preheating the pavement to a specific temperature prior to application. HotTape requires preheating of the pavement to a specific temperature prior to application, therefore an infrared thermometer is required.

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What is the purpose of the indents?

The top surface of the material has regularly-spaced indents which provide a visual cue during application that the material has reached a molten state indicating satisfactory adhesion and bead embedment has been achieved. The indents also provide a post application visual cue that the installation procedures have been followed. Sufficient heat has been applied to PreMark when the indents have closed.

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What size propane tank should I use?

You should use at least a 40 lb propane tank. It's a good idea to have two tanks on hand depending on total amount of material to apply.

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When applying on surfaces that sealer is recommended, is PreMark Sealer the only sealer that will work?

PreMark applied using PreMark sealer is covered by Flint's warranty. PreMark applied using other sealers may or may not work, and is therefore not covered by the warranty.

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Why does my propane tank freeze sometimes and how can I thaw it?

When using the heat torch for a long, steady period of time the propane tank may freeze. The only way to thaw it is to stop using it for a little while and switch to another tank until it thaws.

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Why do I have to remove moisture when I know the surface isn't wet?

Surface moisture is not often visible, so you should assume that some moisture is present. Even if it hasn't rained for several days moisture may be present on the due to humidity, dew, or condensation from automobile air conditioning units. A visual indication that the surface is getting dry is a shadow-like appearance of water vapor around the area being dried. If you do not check for moisture prior to application, the moisture can become trapped below the material and it will be transformed into steam. As the steam expands and tries to escape, it will lift the PreMark off of the road. You can't see this steam barrier, but it will be present and will prevent the formation of a proper bond.

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Why is it so important to not sink the glass beads in excess of the optimum embedment of 50%-60%?

It is important to not sink the beads because the material will be less retroreflective initially. If you do sink the beads, you can hand-cast more beads during application while the material is still in the molten state.

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Why is sealer needed on concrete applications?

Portland cement concrete is the most difficult road surface on which to apply pavement markings. Concrete must be clean. It must be free of curing agents, abrasives, de-icing chemicals, dirt, dust and any other materials which will act as a barrier between the concrete surface and the pavement marking material. As there is no bitumen present in the concrete, the bond between all thermoplastics is not chemical, but physical. The greater the physical bond, the greater the performance. Therefore, a sealer is used with PreMark® on concrete.

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Why is the chisel test so important? What should I look for when checking bond on asphalt vs. concrete?

Even if the indents in the surface are closed, the chisel test should always be performed. With a hammer and a small heavy-duty putty knife, cut through the PreMark just to the surface of the asphalt. Gently pry the PreMark back at the point of incision. Sufficient bond has been achieved if a portion of the underlying asphalt is also being lifted. If you see that no asphalt is embedded on the back of the PreMark, press the PreMark back in place and reheat. For chisel tests on concrete, you should see a thin layer of PreMark adhering to the substrate surface.

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Will new asphalt “bleed through” newly applied PreMark®?

While there are no road or air temperature restrictions with PreMark®, moisture must be removed from the surface by running the flame quickly over the surface. Be careful not to dry the new road surface too much as you may damage the new “virgin” asphalt. If you see some “bleed through” from the new asphalt, do not be concerned as that represents small pin holes where some bitumen has seaped through the PreMark®. It will wear off when traffic runs over it. To avoid “bleed through”, reduce the heat by holding the flame higher.

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Do I need to use sealer when applying HotTape on concrete?

No, sealer is not required for HotTape applications on concrete.

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What is the primary difference between HotTape and PreMark?

HotTape requires preheating of the road surface to a specific temperature prior to application, therefore an infrared thermometer is required. PreMark does not require preheating of the road surface to a specific temperature prior to application.

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How do I know when HotTape has been heated enough for proper bond?

During heating, HotTape should soften and conform to the pavement surface. The material may bubble and may change color slightly; however, this is normal during application but caution to avoid scorching is advised. HotTape will exhibit a soft "chewing gum" appearance when properly heated. As soon as material has cooled, check the bond with a chisel test. Cut an area in the material with a chisel. If the material can be lifted without evidence of asphalt on the underside, insufficient heat has been applied. Simply apply more heat until proper bonding has occurred. Do not attempt to reheat a a later date.

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What is the minimum temperature required for preheating the road surface before applying HotTape?

Using the heat torch in a circular motion, preheat the surface to a minimum temperature of 300° F.

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Can DecoMark be applied on top of paint or hot-applied thermoplastic?

No, DecoMark should not be applied on top of previously marked pavement surfaces.

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Can DecoMark be cleaned?

DecoMark can be cleaned by using a non-hazardous detergent and a pressure washer.

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Can I order licensed logo markings for my driveway (i.e. favorite sports team)?

Flint Trading, Inc. does not manufacture and distribute markings for individual consumers. Licensed products are manufactured for business-to-business use and only under the written consent of the holder of the licensed brand.

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Can I use DecoMark Surface Patterns in areas other than crosswalk applications?

Yes, DecoMark Surface Patterns are great for streetscape and beautification projects for medians, islands, courtyards, pedestrian walkways, roundabouts, gore areas and more. Visit the photo gallery on our website at www.flinttrading.com.

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Can DecoMark be installed over stamped asphalt?

We do not recommend applying DecoMark® over stamped asphalt. The DecoMark® surface pattern will become distorted from the molten material flowing into the previously-stamped grooves. We recommend our StreetMark® product which is a durable preformed thermoplastic covering for stamped asphalt.

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Does DecoMark have indents in the surface of the material?

Yes. Heat the material until the indents in the surface close. The closing of these indents provide a visual cue that the material has reached a molten state and proper embedment of the skid-resistant corundum has been achieved. Consequently, all seams should be closed without visible gaps between the adjacent connecting colors as a result of the material flowing together. It is also imperative that you perform the chisel test to confirm proper bond.

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Do I have to use one of the stock patterns and colors or can I have a custom pattern or color made?

There are 5 stock patterns from which to choose. However, custom patterns can be made but do require a 1,000 sq. ft. minimum purchase. There are 16 standard DecoMark colors. Premium and custom colors are available with a 1,000 sq. ft. minimum purchase.

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Do I have to use the 2-part DecoMark Sealer?

Yes, the sealer optimized for DecoMark (DecoMark Sealer) is a 2-component system provided in convenient easy-to-use cartridges. The product warranty is contingent on the use of DecoMark Sealer for all types of applications.

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How does DecoMark hold up to snowplows?

While no marking is totally snow plow resistant, you will get better results with DecoMark if you apply extra heat to the leading edges causing the material to flow more to create a tapered edge that is less likely to catch snow plow blades. Additionally, the required white boundary lines help to provide a protective edge on each side of the decorative material. DecoMark is used successfully in colder regions.

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How soon can DecoMark be opened to traffic after it is applied?

DecoMark should cool until firm to the touch before allowing traffic. This can vary based on road and air temperature but, on average, traffic is allowed within 30 minutes following application. To speed up the cooling process you can spray with cool water. The DecoMark system will continue to cure during the first 24 hours and will become more durable to traffic during this period.

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Is there anything I can do to speed up the cooling process?

To speed up the cooling process you can spray with cool water.

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Why are the white boundary lines required on each side of a decorative crosswalk?

According to the FHWA and the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices MUTCD) Section 3B.17, the white boundary lines are necessary to establish a marked crosswalk. The non-retroreflective colored material within the marked crosswalk lines is for the purpose of decoration only and is not considered to be a traffic control device.

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Why do I have to remove moisture from the surface when I know the surface isn't wet?

Surface moisture is not often visible, so you should assume that some moisture is present. Even if it hasn't rained for several days moisture may be present on the surface due to humidity, dew, or condensation from automobile air conditioning units.

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Why is the chisel test so important? What should I look for when checking bond on asphalt vs. concrete?

Even if the indents in the surface are closed, the chisel test should always be performed. With a hammer and a small heavy-duty putty knife, cut through the DecoMark just to the surface of the asphalt. Gently pry the DecoMark back at the point of incision. Sufficient bond has been achieved if a portion of the underlying asphalt is also being lifted. If you see that no asphalt is embedded on the back of the DecoMark material, press the material back in place and reheat. For chisel tests on concrete, you should see a thin layer of DecoMark adhering to the substrate surface.

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Are there minimum/maximum temperatures for application of TopMark?

Ambient and surface temperature must be 45ºF and rising. If substrate surface temperatures exceed 90ºF do not attempt to apply more than a 4 ft. x 2 ft. section at a time.

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Can TopMark be applied on asphalt?

Yes.

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Can TopMark be applied on painted or colored concrete?

TopMark can not be applied on painted concrete however, it can be applied on colored concrete.

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Can TopMark be applied on radius ramps (curved ramps)?

Yes. TopMark can be used for radius ramps because the material is easy to cut with scissors for special curves and angles.

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Can TopMark be applied on textured concrete (concrete with a pattern)?

Yes, TopMark can be applied on textured concrete (concrete with a pattern). You must fill in the imprinted concrete with TopMark Bonder Paste. You should only do 2 sq ft at a time, because the bonder paste will set-up quickly in areas where it is used to fill in depressions.

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Can you apply TopMark on grooved or unsmooth surfaces?

It depends on the depth of the grooves. With shallow grooves and voids, applying extra bonder paste to fill in the voids will help. With deep grooves and voids, grinding should be performed prior to application.

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Do I need a hammer drill, saw or any other power tools to install the TopMark?

No. Mechanical fasteners and anchors are not needed at all.

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How do I meet contrast requirements with TopMark?

According to PROW-AG R304.1.3 Contrast, detectable warning surfaces shall contrast visually with adjacent gutter, street or highway, or walkway surfaces, either light-on-dark or dark-on-light. TopMark is available in the standard colors: Yellow, Black, Brick Red, Blue, and White. Color consideration is dependent on the color of the asphalt or concrete.

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How do I safely dispose of any leftover materials?

To safely dispose of any leftover material, you should squeeze all the remaining sealer/paste into the metal pan that is provided. Once it has set up you can dispose of it.

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How long does it take to apply TopMark?

You can apply a 2' x 4' mat with two people in about 15 minutes.

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How much time do you have between applying the TopMark Sealer and Bonder Paste bonder?

Immediately after the sealer has been applied, apply the bonder paste. Do not allow the sealer to fully cure before applying the bonder paste.

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How soon should you apply heat after positioning the TopMark material on the bonder paste?

You should apply heat immediately after placing the TopMark on the bonder paste.

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Is TopMark compliant with the ADA?

Yes. TopMark is compliant with the current Public Rights-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROW-AG) as published by the U.S. Access Board. These guidelines cover pedestrian access to sidewalks and streets, including crosswalks, curb ramps... and other components of public rights-of-way. TopMark is also compliant with the ADA/ABA-AG (formerly ADAAG). These guidelines cover buildings and facilities to the extent required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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What color of material should I use for my ramps?

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What is the "official" layout that is approved by the ADA?

According to PROW-AG R304.1.4 Size, detectable warning surfaces shall extend 24 inches (610 mm) minimum in the direction of travel and the full width of the curb ramp, landing, or blended transition. Setback is 6" to 8" within curb line. For more information about detectable warning specifications and the ADA requirements, visit www.access-board.gov.

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What size sheet should I use?

Sheet size is dependent on the total application area required for ADA compliance. TopMark is available in several sheet sizes including: 1'x2', 1'x3', 2'x3' and 2'x4'. Larger sizes may be available; call Flint Trading for more information.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply PreMark on SuperPave surfaces?

Can I get PreMark in colors other than white?

Can I "inlay" PreMark in asphalt?

Can I pour the PreMark Sealer into an appropriate spray container for easier dispensing?

Can I use a left turn arrow as a right turn arrow by simply flipping the material and putting the beaded side down?

Can PreMark® be applied on fresh new asphalt?

Can PreMark® be applied on new chip seal?

Can PreMark® be applied on top of paint or tape?

Can PreMark® be applied on top of slurry seal?

Can PreMark® be applied to very coarse chip seal or open grade asphalt?

Can PreMark® be inlaid?

Can PreMark be applied in any temperature?

Can PreMark be applied on top of hot-applied thermoplastic?

Can PreMark be cleaned?

Do de-icers/salts affect the application of PreMark?

Does PreMark have a shelf-life?

Do I have to use the Flint 2000EX to apply PreMark?

What is ViziGrip®?

How does PreMark® perform on old asphalt?

How does PreMark hold up to snowplows?

How do you cut PreMark?

How do you know when the PreMark material is bonded?

How do you remove preformed thermoplastic if you need to change your markings layout?

How long do you have to wait after a rainfall to apply PreMark on asphalt? On concrete?

How should PreMark be stored/handled before application?

How soon can PreMark be opened to traffic after it is applied?

Is PreMark® preformed thermoplastic a cold or hot tape?

Is there anything I can do to speed up the cooling process?

What are the temperature restrictions for applying PreMark?

What do I do if I get hot preformed thermoplastic on my skin?

What is the difference between PreMark and HotTape?

What is the purpose of the indents?

What size propane tank should I use?

When applying on surfaces that sealer is recommended, is PreMark Sealer the only sealer that will work?

Why does my propane tank freeze sometimes and how can I thaw it?

Why do I have to remove moisture when I know the surface isn't wet?

Why is it so important to not sink the glass beads in excess of the optimum embedment of 50%-60%?

Why is sealer needed on concrete applications?

Why is the chisel test so important? What should I look for when checking bond on asphalt vs. concrete?

Will new asphalt “bleed through” newly applied PreMark®?

Do I need to use sealer when applying HotTape on concrete?

What is the primary difference between HotTape and PreMark?

How do I know when HotTape has been heated enough for proper bond?

What is the minimum temperature required for preheating the road surface before applying HotTape?

Can DecoMark be applied on top of paint or hot-applied thermoplastic?

Can DecoMark be cleaned?

Can I order licensed logo markings for my driveway (i.e. favorite sports team)?

Can I use DecoMark Surface Patterns in areas other than crosswalk applications?

Can DecoMark be installed over stamped asphalt?

Does DecoMark have indents in the surface of the material?

Do I have to use one of the stock patterns and colors or can I have a custom pattern or color made?

Do I have to use the 2-part DecoMark Sealer?

How does DecoMark hold up to snowplows?

How soon can DecoMark be opened to traffic after it is applied?

Is there anything I can do to speed up the cooling process?

Why are the white boundary lines required on each side of a decorative crosswalk?

Why do I have to remove moisture from the surface when I know the surface isn't wet?

Why is the chisel test so important? What should I look for when checking bond on asphalt vs. concrete?

Are there minimum/maximum temperatures for application of TopMark?

Can TopMark be applied on asphalt?

Can TopMark be applied on painted or colored concrete?

Can TopMark be applied on radius ramps (curved ramps)?

Can TopMark be applied on textured concrete (concrete with a pattern)?

Can you apply TopMark on grooved or unsmooth surfaces?

Do I need a hammer drill, saw or any other power tools to install the TopMark?

How do I meet contrast requirements with TopMark?

How do I safely dispose of any leftover materials?

How long does it take to apply TopMark?

How much time do you have between applying the TopMark Sealer and Bonder Paste bonder?

How soon should you apply heat after positioning the TopMark material on the bonder paste?

Is TopMark compliant with the ADA?

What color of material should I use for my ramps?

What is the "official" layout that is approved by the ADA?

What size sheet should I use?

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