How to Apply Floor Marking Tape and Signs

02 Dec.,2024

 

How to Apply Floor Marking Tape and Signs

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Superior Mark® Floor Marking Tape is easy to apply. There&#;s minimal prep work compared to what&#;s required to paint warehouse floors&#;our floor tape can save you time, work hours, and money. For proper application of industrial floor marking tape, consider these easy floor prep and installation processes.

Plan Floor Markings In Advance

Before purchasing your floor tape, have a floor marking plan in place. What system will you use for your facility? Choose what colors you&#;ll use for which areas, how to convey specific messages, and what areas should be the first for tape application. A free sample kit allows you to test the application process and assess durability so you can make informed decisions.

To Prepare for Tape Installation

For the strongest, longest-lasting adhesive bond, floors must be cleaned thoroughly before tape installation. Remove any paint, tape pieces, or adhesive residue leftover from previous floor markings, then clean the floors thoroughly to ensure a strong bond. Paint removal isn&#;t a requirement, but cracking, deteriorating paint can compromise the bond, which may result in adhesive failure.

To clean the floor prior to applying Superior Mark® Floor Tape, sweep the surface well to clear dirt and debris. If necessary, use Superior Mark® Degreaser to clean heavy oils and grease, then spray the area with 70- to 90-percent Isopropyl Alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol is a good choice for removing dirt, debris, grease, and oil because it cuts through the contaminants, then evaporates quickly.

Use a clean mop head to absorb excess liquid, then allow the floor to dry fully. Then, ensure no debris or contaminants remain on the floor. Press the adhesive side of a small piece of tape onto the floor, remove, and check the adhesive for debris. If any contaminants are left behind, repeat the floor cleaning procedure until the tape removes clean.

Applying the Tape

Allow the floor to dry thoroughly before applying the tape, measure and mark the intended application area, then follow these three simple steps for floor marking tape installation:

  1. Remove the QuickPeel Liner backing from the pre-cut tape strip or floor sign, or peel back the liner at the beginning of the tape roll for straight-line application.

  2. Press the tape&#;s adhesive to the floor at the start of the installation area, then apply the tape as planned&#;long lines, stripes, dashes, floor sign, or corner application.

  3. Tamp down the tape using at least three passes of 150 pounds or more to activate the pressure-sensitive adhesive. Don&#;t twist or turn the tamping device as this may damage the tape.


Then, open the area to traffic: There&#;s no dry time required, so the area is up and running again in minutes.

Quick Floor Tape Installation Tips:

Our floor marking equipment carts make tape application easier&#;application carts mean all supplies are contained, there&#;s less bending necessary to apply the tape, and the built-in cutter and tamper roller speed up the process.

When applying corners or beginning with a new length of tape, use butt splices rather than overlapping the ends of the tape.

Additionally, do not install tape over seams or joints. Instead, allow a gap of one inch on either side of the seam to prevent the tape from coming loose.

Floor Marking Tape Maintenance

Care and cleaning are simple: Our floor tape stands up to cleaning machines and chemicals without peeling, discoloration, or damage. It&#;s also durable enough to stand up to heavy foot traffic, vehicle and forklift traffic, and regular industrial facility wear and tear.

To ensure the tape application lasts as expected, follow these quick tips for floor marking tape care:

  • Choose the appropriate tape product for your intended installation.

  • When cleaning the floors, evaluate the marking tape for signs of damage and replace tape sections as necessary.

  • Our Superior Mark&#; products are designed to withstand cleaning machines and chemicals for long-lasting durability and easy maintenance.        

Diagnosing Tape Issues and Damage

While Superior Mark® Floor Marking Tape is a durable option designed to withstand daily industrial facility traffic, damage may happen. Common issues include:

  • Torn or damaged edges

    , usually caused by pallet dragging. Simply lifting pallets the width of a penny can reduce this damage. Other options include applying the tape in dots or dashes, or using corner markers rather than lines.

  • Stretched or misshapen tape

    , often the result of twisting or turning forklift wheels while resting on the tape. To prevent this type of damage, don&#;t apply tape in areas where forklift wheels must turn, avoid turning the wheels while on the tape, or apply the tape at least one foot away from where the forklift&#;s back wheels stop.

  • Adhesion issues or damage

    , most common if tape has been applied over an improperly cleaned floor. To prevent the tape from lifting or bubbling, ensure the floor has been cleaned properly before application.

For further information on solving the most common floor tape issues, refer to this video:

 

Link to Hebei Top Tape


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How to apply floor tape for maximum durability

 

One of the biggest problems for any factory manager, is constantly having to replace floor tape, that has been ripped up by forklift truck traffic.

Not only does this cost money to replace the tape, but also costs employees a lot of time per year, fixing the issue.

Whilst many managers have looked around for tapes that will be more &#;sticky&#; and not be ripped up by accident, this then means that once the tape needs to be taken up and moved, residue is left on the floor, which poses an entirely different problem all together.

In this article, you will learn about why it is important to apply floor tape properly, the types of tape available and how this affects the application, and how to apply the floor tape for maximum adhesion.

 

Contents:

Why are floor tapes still commonly used in warehouses?

Floor tapes remain a staple in warehouses for several reasons. Firstly, they offer a cost-effective solution for marking pathways, hazard zones, and storage areas without the need for expensive equipment or installation. In addition, floor tapes, unlike painted lines that require drying time, are instantly ready for use once applied.

In fast-paced warehouse environments where agility is key, floor tapes can be quickly installed or changed to adapt to shifting needs without disruption.

And lastly, the durability of some modern floor tapes ensures longevity even under heavy foot traffic or machinery movement, at a fraction of the price of floor painting or LED projectors.

These qualities make floor tapes an indispensable tool in maintaining organisation and safety within warehouses worldwide.

Why is it beneficial to apply the tape properly?

Properly applied floor tape reduces the risk of accidents introduced by trip hazards and dangerous machinery in the workplace. This means that the placement of the tape is crucial, however the main focus of this article is about how to apply floor tape for maximum durability.

Properly applying floor tape in a warehouse is crucial as following the recommended application techniques, maximum adhesion is ensured, which can help you extend the lifespan of the tape. This means fewer replacements and maintenance efforts and costs in the long run.

 

Types of floor tape available and how this affects the application

When it comes to warehouse floor marking, there are various types of floor tape available to choose from, which can make the decision difficult.

There are 3 main points to consider when measuring the effectiveness of floor tape; initial tack, peel strength (T Peel) and shear strength. Every tape you will find on the market, varies in these areas, and whilst the application of these tapes may be the same, you will likely end up with very different results with each type of tape that you trial.

A very strong tape actually feels really low tack (how sticky it feels when you touch it). The type of tape used to stick a 13.6M long aluminium skin on a trailer can be easily peeled off within seconds of applying for example, as this is because it has a low initial tack. After 20 minutes - you will really struggle to peel the tape off, and after 3 days it will reach 100% strength.

 

Selecting the right floor tape

When it comes to selecting the right floor tape for your warehouse, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, think about the specific requirements of your facility. Are you looking for a highly durable option that can withstand heavy traffic? Or do you need tape that can easily be removed without leaving residue behind? Or both?

Another important consideration is the surface where the tape will be applied. Make sure to choose a tape that is suitable for the material of your flooring to ensure maximum adhesion and longevity. Additionally, take into account any environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations or exposure to chemicals.

It's also crucial to look at the colour options available in floor tapes. Opting for through-colour tapes can help maintain visibility even as they wear down over time. This ensures clear demarcation lines on your warehouse floor for improved safety and organization.

If you need help selecting the right floor tape for your requirements, one of our experts can come on site to help you choose the correct one for you.

 

Surface Preparation

Surface preparation is a crucial step when it comes to applying floor tape in a warehouse for maximum durability. Before laying down the tape, the surface must be clean, dry and free of any debris or dust that could hinder adhesion.

Start by thoroughly cleaning the area where the tape will be applied using a degreaser or cleaner specifically designed for industrial surfaces. This ensures that there are no residues that could compromise the stickiness of the tape.

Next, make sure to dry the surface completely before moving on to apply the floor tape. Moisture can affect adhesion, so this step is essential for ensuring maximum durability.

If there are any existing tapes or markings on the floor, remove them carefully to create a smooth and even surface for the new tape application. Any imperfections underneath can cause issues with adherence and longevity.

How to ensure maximum adhesion

You can consider using a primer specifically designed for floor tapes to enhance adhesion even further.

Proper application technique is also key to maximizing adhesion. Press down firmly on the tape after it's placed to ensure it bonds well with the surface. Avoid air bubbles or wrinkles that could weaken its stickiness over time.

Lastly, give the adhesive enough time to set properly before subjecting it to heavy traffic or harsh conditions. This will allow for a strong bond between the tape and the floor, increasing its durability and performance in your warehouse environment.

 

In this article, you should have now learnt how to apply floor tape to ensure maximum adhesion. It is also important to get the right tape in the first place, and as we have supplied many factories throughout the UK with floor tape, we understand what a good one and a bad one looks like. If you want some assistance with this, or would like to trial a tape, get in touch with an expert here.

 

Are you interested in learning more about PVC Floor Marking Tape? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!