IMPORTANT NOTICE BEFORE APPLICATION

To use EF 2-Part Sealer effectively, ensure both ambient and surface temperatures are at least 45°F (7°C) and rising. When applying to large-scale markings such as bike lanes or extensive interstate shields made of multiple material sections, avoid treating more area than can be heated within 20 minutes. Always leave an 8-inch margin near the continuation edge unheated. Continue with steps 1 through 5 in stages until the entire area is completed.

1. SURFACE PREPARATION

Thoroughly clean the application area, removing all loose debris, sand, and dust using a power blower, compressed air, or sweeping. Avoid applying over paint, except for a thin, well-adhered temporary layer on new asphalt. Do not install over tape, MMA, epoxy, chemicals, salt, deicers, or any oily substances. Handle the material carefully. Since multicolor markings consist of interconnected thermoplastic pieces, avoid lifting an entire section by a single piece to prevent separation. Keep the material on the plastic sheet provided until placement. Once positioned, outline the area using chalk or a crayon. Then, carefully move the unheated material aside to prepare for EF 2-Part Sealer application.

2. SEALER APPLICATION

Ensure the surface is completely dry before applying the sealer. Since moisture may not be visible, assume its presence and dry the surface using a propane-fueled heat torch. There’s no specific temperature requirement for heating the substrate.

Unpack the sealer kit and insert the cartridges into the sealer gun. Keep the gun pointed upwards while removing the cap or plugs, then attach the mixing nozzle securely. Slowly squeeze the handle while pointing downward until the sealer appears about 2 inches from the nozzle tip. If unused within 10 minutes, remove the nozzle, reseal with plugs, and secure with the cap. One 300/600 ml cartridge covers approximately 50 sq. ft. of PreMark material.

Apply the sealer only within the marked outline to avoid staining. Dispense and spread it evenly using the provided roller, ensuring a thin, glossy layer. Do not wait for curing before placing the PreMark material. In cooler temperatures (around 45ºF/7ºC), the sealer may dispense slowly. To counteract this, keep unopened cartridges in a heated blanket or inside a vehicle to maintain a near-room temperature.

3. POSITIONING THE PREMARK MATERIAL

Immediately after applying the sealer, position the PreMark segments onto the pavement with the top side facing up. The correct side features heating indicators (small indents) and factory-applied surface treatments such as beads or anti-skid elements. Align all segments correctly according to the provided diagram, ensuring no gaps between pieces. Double-check the layout before heating.

4. HEATING THE PREMARK MATERIAL

Face the marking with the wind at your back, allowing the airflow to direct heat over the unheated material and away from your feet. Maintain a steady heating motion, keeping the torch nozzle 4 to 8 inches above the surface while sweeping over a 2 to 3-foot width. Heating too closely may scorch the material without ensuring full melting.

Monitor the heating indicators—they will disappear when the material reaches a molten state, signifying proper adhesion and bead embedment. Continue heating until the edges round and the seams fuse together. Warning: Insufficient heating leads to weak bonding, while excessive heat may embed surface treatments too deeply, reducing initial reflectivity and skid resistance.

5. INSPECTION & BOND VERIFICATION

Once cooled to near ambient temperature, inspect the bond and bead embedment. Edges should appear rounded and fully adhered. Perform a chisel test by creating a small “V” cut into the material, then lifting it slightly. If asphalt aggregate sticks to the underside, the bond is secure. If little or no asphalt is present, reapply a small amount of sealer, press the material down, and reheat.

Cold Weather Consideration:
In temperatures between 45°F-55°F (7°C-13°C), bonding may take longer. To speed up curing, apply additional heat to the surface while ensuring that embedded elements remain intact. Check bonding at 15-minute intervals. Typically, the sealer cures within an hour under these conditions.

For large markings (e.g., bike lanes or interstate shields with multiple sections), leave an 8-inch area near the continuation edge unheated. Work in 50 sq. ft. sections, repeating steps 1-5 systematically. Never expose bare sealer to direct torch flames, as premature curing may compromise adhesion.