1. MATERIAL
“Adhesive Ready” & “Paint Ready” neutral grey PVC. See below. Individual pieces fit in seconds!
2. CUTTING
When cutting Thorny Devil Spikes use a fine tooth saw. A hand panel saw is adequate.
Cut FLAT sections along the stress channels with scissors to trim the spikes into various configurations. The FLAT panels can also be thermo-formed (see below).
3. DRILLING
Use the original holes as a guide when pre-drilling into masonry, steel, brick etc. Thorny Devil sections can also be attached using self-tapping screws installed straight through the plastic (no pre-drilling). We recommend a minimum of 2 screws (3-4 screws is preferred) unless using an adhesive.
4. ADHESIVES
Glue the sections to a clean surface with a good building adhesive. We recommend neutral cure silicon based adhesive e.g.
“Mirror Metal Glass” for a very strong bond. (48+ hours curing time)
Note: Use “neutral cure” silicone when attaching BIRD SPIKES.
*Occasionally, it may be useful to use screws or wire to hold the sections in place while the adhesive begins to cure.
5. PREPARING CONCRETE & STUCCO WALLS
When properly prepared, the Thorny Devil capping will be virtually maintenance free.
Loose or flaking paint will compromise the potential bond and may lead to the capping coming loose.
To greatly enhance the bond between the capping and the wall, we recommend removing paint, dirt and loose mortar on the target area, prior to fixing. Good preparation leads to the best result.
6. CLEANING
The removal of dust and dirt, efflorescence, and all loose or peeling paint or similar debris may require the use of:
- High pressure water cleaners (pressure washer)
- Wire brushes
- Concrete cleaner/s (acidic masonry cleaner)
Step 1
Use a wire brush and a high pressure water cleaner to remove all traces of loose paint, dirt, dust and other loose matter. Use/hire a commercial style pressure washer and at least 2500 psi. A suitable spray pattern is the 15 degree tip held 12-inches from the surface. Work in a horizontal, back and forth pattern along the top of the wall where the Thorny Devil capping is to be glued. Try to inject the water underneath the exposed edge of the paint to lift as much as possible. Any remaining loose paint will need to be removed manually with the wire brush.
Step 2
Wash down the top of the wall with a concrete cleaner such as an acidic masonry cleaner.
Step 3
“Rinse with water” so all traces of the acidic masonry cleaner are washed away.
Step 4
Allow to dry properly
Step 5
Apply adhesive.
7. PAINTING
The natural, neutral grey color blends in with most surroundings and is maintenance free. However, Thorny Devil Spikes can be painted as needed to suit any color scheme, if desired.
8. SIGNS
Warning signs are recommended for use with our products because they enhance the deterrent effect. Ideally, they should be readable from a distance of 15 feet (i.e fitted approximately every 30 feet)
9. THERMO-FORMING
By heating in water to around 80 degrees Celcius, Thorny Devil Spikes can be molded to fit around various shapes & larger posts/pipes. *USE GLOVES to protect hands. Avoid bending the thorns.