Installation Instructions

Playform® games are made from preformed thermoplastic material, the same durable material used for horizontal road markings. This material has been tested in high-traffic conditions across Europe and offers exceptional durability when properly installed.

The recommended surface for installation is asphalt. The material can also be applied on concrete using a special primer.

VIDEO: Complete installation tutorial

PDF: Download full installation guide

View Installation Instructions PDF

Required Equipment

  • Propane gas bottle
  • Long arm propane gas torch burner
  • Infrared thermometer
  • Recommended Primer
  • Anti-skid granulates
  • Wire brush
  • Hand-held blower
  • Chalk
  • Protective equipment

Safety Precautions

Use protective clothing including leather boots, long pants, safety glasses, and appropriate gloves.

Avoid all contact with the molten material and heat torch flame. If molten material contacts your skin, flush the area immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention. Do not attempt to pull the molten material off your skin.

Take all necessary precautions when working with an open flame. Follow general safety rules when using propane gas.

We recommend two people for installation: one operates the torch while the other disperses the anti-skid granulates.

Step-by-Step Installation

Step 1: Clean the Surface

Thoroughly clean the application area. Remove all loose particles including dust, sand, pebbles, leaves, and other debris using a wire brush and hand-held blower. For best results, use a power blower or compressed air.

The surface must be free of oil spots, chemicals, and other substances. Avoid areas with cracks, holes, rough surfaces, or incompatible paints.

Step 2: Assemble and Outline

Position all pieces of the game on the surface like a puzzle, using the assembly sketch included in your package. Make sure all connecting parts are properly placed with no gaps between segments.

Once assembled, outline the entire game using chalk. Mark approximately 20 cm outside the actual contour.

Step 3: Heat the Surface

Heat the outlined surface and approximately 20 cm outside the contour to remove any moisture. The surface must be completely dry before proceeding.

Playform® can be applied at air temperatures starting from 5°C. However, surface temperature is critical – preheat the surface to minimum 30°C.

Step 4: Apply Primer

Apply the recommended primer (AC-341 for asphalt, WEP 127 for concrete) evenly inside the outlined surface only. Cover the entire area that will be under the thermoplastic material.

Wait 15 to 30 minutes for the primer to dry, depending on outside temperature. The primer is dry when you can glide your hand over the surface and feel a thin film with a shiny appearance.

⚠️ Important: Do not accelerate the drying process using an open flame. The primer is flammable at this stage.

Step 5: Position the Pieces

Place all thermoplastic pieces on the primed surface according to the assembly sketch. Position all connecting parts with the beaded side facing up. Ensure proper placement with no gaps between segments.

Step 6: Melt the Material

Position yourself downwind to protect yourself from the heat torch flame. Begin heating the material by moving the torch slowly and steadily in a sweeping motion at a height of 20-40 cm above the material.

Work gradually from one small area to another. Use the infrared thermometer to monitor when the material reaches 200°C – 220°C. At the proper temperature, you will notice the material’s color change and see it beginning to melt and merge with the substrate.

When the material reaches the correct temperature, keep the burner on that area for another 5 seconds until you see the material slightly liquefying.

⚠️ Important: Do not overheat the material. You will know the material is burnt if the color darkens.

Step 7: Apply Anti-Skid Granulates

Wait 15-20 seconds after the material is properly melted, then disperse the anti-skid granulates over the entire surface. The timing is critical:

  • If you wait too long, the material will cool and harden, and the granulates will not embed properly
  • If you apply immediately, the granulates will sink completely into the material

The granulates should partially embed into the surface, providing a non-slip finish.

Step 8: Adhesion Test

After the material has cooled down but is still slightly soft, perform an adhesion test. Using a chisel and hammer, make a 5 mm deep cut at the edge of the material. Try to lift a portion of the material.

If the material pops off or can be easily removed without evidence of asphalt on the underside, insufficient heat was applied. Simply repeat Step 6 by reheating the material until proper bonding occurs.

Perform this test in several places, preferably at the edges and in the center of the game. Remember to reheat any tested areas afterward.

Step 9: Cooling

The material will cool down and settle within a few minutes after application. Drying time depends on asphalt temperature, weather conditions, layer thickness, and the amount of heat applied.

If needed, cooling time can be reduced by covering the surface with water.

Once cooled, the playground game is ready for use.

Application on Existing Markings

Playform® can be applied on top of existing thermoplastic markings. First, scrape off any loose material. If the thermoplastic surface is oxidized, briefly heat the surface and scrape until fresh material appears.

For application over other marking materials (non-thermoplastic), consult us before proceeding.

Tips for Best Results

  • Always check weather conditions before installation – avoid rain or high humidity
  • Ensure the surface is completely dry before applying primer
  • Work methodically, melting small areas at a time
  • Use the infrared thermometer frequently to maintain proper temperature
  • Two-person installation is more efficient and ensures better anti-skid application timing

Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

The Safety Data Sheet for Playform® thermoplastic material is available upon request and will be provided with every confirmed order. The SDS contains detailed information regarding product composition, handling, storage, transport, and safety measures to ensure proper and safe installation