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How to install Defender Bird Spikes

Defender Bird Spikes

We recently announced we are official stockists of the brand-new Defender® Bird Spikes range including their retail packs. To ensure you achieve the full potential of these high quality bird spikes we have put together a handy guide to make sure you correctly install bird spikes. We always recommend that, before full installation you test the suitability of the glue by sticking down one section or bird spikes for 24 hours, then pulling to check adhesion.

Steps to install Defender Bird Spikes

Cleaning

Firstly, ensure all areas are cleaned, dry and free from bird droppings. Make sure you look up when checking the area as the source of the mess may be from ledges or pipes higher up the building. If this is the case you will need to spike these as well. If not, droppings and twigs may fall onto the spikes below making them less effective.

Apply Silcone

Apply a bead of Defender® Silicone to the base of the spike, thicker for more uneven surfaces. Use at temperatures between +5 degrees and +25 degrees. Always test the suitability of the glue before full installation as mentioned above.

Push Down Firm

Stick the first row of spikes towards the front of the ledge, so the spikes fully protect the leading edge. Ensure you press down firmly so the glue oozes through the holes. For seagulls, it’s recommended the spikes are screwed down when possible. 

Add Additional Rows

Sometimes if the gap behind the first row is too big pigeons may get behind. To avoid this happening, we recommend installing another row of spikes into this space to block it. If you have a very wide ledge you may have to use 3 or more rows of spikes. It’s key to leave the smallest gap possible between the tops of the pins and adjacent rows.

Snappable Pieces

Every effort should be made to spike all possible landing sites that are 2.5cm or greater. The spikes can easily be snapped using your fingers. Snap the spikes into pieces to finish off rows or spike small areas of pipe etc.

Cavities and Holes

The spikes will stop pigeons from sitting on ledges however, if there is a hole or cavity they will invariably force their way past the spikes to get into that hole. Simply putting a spike in front of this hole/cavity will not stop the pigeon. Every effort should be made the block the access to this hole, ensuring no birds are trapped.

Raised Sections

Always make sure that the base of the bird spikes are fixed directly onto the top of any parts of the ledge that may be raised slightly higher than the rest of the ledge. If this is not done then pigeons will overcome any spikes on lower parts by standing on the raised section. Spike the highest part of the ledge first then move on to spike the lower sections afterwards.

Maintenance

Sometimes window cleaners, scaffolders and other builders have a tendency to damage spikes, make sure to warn them before. We recommend every few months checking the ledges; damaged or missing spikes should be replaced. 

Safe Working

Please Note: Before starting any installation always makes sure you can do it safety without hurting yourself or others. Always wear suitable protective clothing.

We hope this guide will assist you with to install Bird Spikes. We understand you may still have some queries or questions, if this is the case please feel free to get in touch with a member of our team. Make sure you check out the full range of Defender® products here!

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