Are you using the right glue?

Thursday 22/02/2024

Adhesive for bird spikes....do you know what to use, when and why? If you just use any old glue from your local builders merchant then your spike installations won't last.

1. NEUTRAL CURE: If you use an acetic cure adhesive it will slowly degrade the polycarbonate base of any bird spike.


2. LOW MODULUS: Spikes are generally installed in areas where you get lots of various weather and temperatures. A low modulus adhesive allows for the expansion and contraction of the surface you are sticking to and the spikes themselves.


3. SURFACE WETNESS: Your adhesive needs to be able to cure and adhere during this curing time. Adhesives all respond differently to a dry, damp or wet surface.


4. CURE TIME: The speed in which an adhesive fully cures can vary from a few hours to a few days. In an area with high bird pressure you'll want to get spikes fixed permanently as quick as you can so they cannot disturb your installation.


5. SMOOTHNESS OF SUBSTRATE: If installing spikes directly onto a very smooth surface then you'll need to apply surface activating products which micro-etch to provide enough surface area for the glue to grip on to. If you are installing onto a crumbling substrate then you'll need to remove any loose debris or old paint.


6. POROUSNESS OF SUBSTRATE: If you are fixing spikes onto a highly porous substrate this can affect the amount of adhesive you would need and also the curing time. You can apply surface primer to counter this.

BONUS TIP! When installing a bird spike you don't just put glue on the spike. You should apply an amount of glue onto the substrate first and agitate it with a brush. This ensures maximum grab and a longer lasting installation.