At Pauleen Corp, with over a decade of expertise in designing and manufacturing premium bird deterrent systems, we understand that the efficacy of any bird spike solution is contingent upon two critical factors: product quality and correct installation. Our 304-Grade Stainless Steel Bird Spikes and UV-stabilized Polycarbonate Bases are engineered for maximum durability and performance. This technical guide will provide a detailed, professional procedure for the proper installation of our bird spike systems, ensuring you achieve a long-lasting and effective solution for bird control.
Section 1: Pre-Installation Assessment & Material Preparation
Before commencing installation, a thorough assessment is crucial.
1.1. Site Assessment and Surface Selection:
Identify the Pest Species: Determine the species of bird (e.g., pigeons, gulls, sparrows) to confirm the appropriate spike width and density.
Substrate Inspection: Examine the surface where the spikes will be installed. Common substrates include:
Concrete Ledges
Brickwork
Metal Fascia and I-Beams
Wooden Beams
Signage and Lighting Fixtures
Ensure the surface is structurally sound, clean, and dry.
1.2. Tools and Materials Required:
Pauleen Bird Spikes
High-Strength Industrial-Grade Adhesive (e.g., Sikaflex-221 or PL® Premium Polyurethane Construction Adhesive)
Stainless Steel Cable Ties (for additional anchorage)
Mechanical Fasteners: Stainless Steel Self-Tapping Screws or Concrete Anchors, as required.
Caulking Gun (for adhesive application)
Power Drill with appropriate bits (for masonry or metal)
Tape Measure
Safety Gloves and Glasses
Surface Cleaner (Isopropyl Alcohol or a specialized degreaser)
Abrasive Pad or Wire Brush
Section 2: The Installation Procedure
Follow this step-by-step protocol for a professional and permanent installation.
Step 1: Surface Preparation
This is the most critical step for adhesive bonding.
Thoroughly Clean the Surface: Remove all dust, dirt, grease, and most importantly, bird guano. Use a wire brush for loose material and a degreaser followed by isopropyl alcohol to eliminate all organic residues.
Ensure a Dry Surface: The substrate must be completely dry before applying adhesive. Any moisture will compromise the bond.
Step 2: Dry-Fitting the Spike Strips
Uncoil or lay out the bird spike strips along the intended installation line.
For straight runs, use the pre-cut sections. For curved surfaces like pipes or ornate ledges, use our Flexible Bird Spike System.
Ensure the strips fit snugly end-to-end without gaps. If a gap is unavoidable, use the provided Connector Clips to bridge the sections seamlessly.
Step 3: Adhesive Application (Primary Bonding Method)
Apply a continuous, zig-zag or bead pattern of the high-strength polyurethane adhesive along the base of the bird spike strip.
Important: Avoid applying adhesive directly to the spike strands. Focus the adhesive on the base channel.
Step 4: Positioning and Seating the Strips
Carefully position the adhesive-coated strip onto the pre-cleaned surface.
Apply firm, uniform pressure along the entire length of the base for 30-60 seconds to ensure optimal contact and adhesive spread.
Wipe away any excess adhesive that squeezes out from the sides immediately.
Step 5: Mechanical Fixing (Secondary/Reinforcement Method)
For areas with high wind loads, potential vandalism, or on slippery surfaces (e.g., glass, certain metals), mechanical fastening is recommended as a supplement to the adhesive.
For Metal/Wood Surfaces: Pre-drill pilot holes through the base of the spike strip and into the substrate. Secure using stainless steel self-tapping screws.
For Concrete/Brick Surfaces: Pre-drill holes using a masonry bit. Insert plastic wall plugs and secure the strip with stainless steel screws.
Using Cable Ties: In scenarios where drilling is not permissible, use UV-resistant stainless steel cable ties fed through the pre-molded holes in the base. Wrap the ties around the entire structure (e.g., a beam or pipe) and tighten securely.
Step 6: Curing Time
Allow the adhesive to cure fully as per the manufacturer's instructions, typically 24-48 hours. Do not disturb the installation during this period.
Section 3: Post-Installation Inspection & Maintenance
Quality Check: After the curing period, conduct a visual and physical inspection to ensure all strips are firmly attached.
Routine Maintenance: While Pauleen bird spikes are virtually maintenance-free, we recommend a semi-annual inspection to check for any accumulated debris that should be cleared away, ensuring the spikes remain fully effective.