« back | 05.10.2009: DECORATING LASER TAG ARENA: A PIECE OF ADVICE FROM THE SIDE OF SPECIALISTS IN FLUORESCENT PAINTS, UV LIGHTS AND LAMPS

:: AN INTERVIEW WITH JAMES FULLER, A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE UV CENTRE (UNITED KINGDOM) ::
(Please, Read more » about The UV Centre)

TRUTNEE : - As an expert in fluorescent paints, what types of them can you recommend for laser tag maze decorating? What are the differences between the fluorescent paints available at your online shop?

The UV CENTRE : - We have two types of paint available on our website: sprayable (solvent-based) and brushable (water-based). We usually recommend the brushable paint in most cases.

If you are using one of our specialist stencils, you need to use the sprayable paint. Some artists also prefer the effects you can achieve with sprayable paint.

TRUTNEE : - How long can a fluorescent painting last in laser tag maze? I mean, how often it is advised to repaint the maze?

The UV CENTRE : - If the paint is applied correctly, the paint can last for many years. We recommend repainting every year, however, in practice some arenas may not be repainted for 3-4 years. The correct way of applying any fluorescent paint, not just ours, is as follows:

- 1-2 coats of Bright Base (white undercoat), this is the most important coat, it allows the fluorescent paint to glow under UV light.

- 2-3 coats of fluorescent paint. Multiple even coats will produce the best effect.

- 1-2 coats of Tuff Coat (clear lacquer), protects the paint and prolongs the life of the paint.

TRUTNEE : - Do you need some specific skills to apply a fluorescent paint, or can it be applied just as an ordinary one? Does a person need to purchase some specific tools (i.e., any special brushes, rollers, etc.) to apply a fluorescent paint? Are there any special tips for applying fluorescent paints?

The UV CENTRE : - Applying our paint is not difficult, you just have to take your time, prepare the surfaces correctly and use the correct tools. Unfortunately many operators are in a hurry to get the job done and will miss out a coat of undercoat or fluorescent paint which will have a negative impact on their arena. As well as following the above painting instructions, we recommend using small 100mm (4”) sponge roller to get the best effect, also available from The UV Centre.

TRUTNEE : - What types of UV lights and lamps can you recommend for installing in a laser tag maze?  What are the differences between these types?

The UV CENTRE : - We recommend 1200mm (4ft) T8 UV fittings and tubes, as these are the most common and readily available UV tubes on the market. If you want ultimate power, the 400w canons are the best choice:

TRUTNEE : - What types of UV lights are typically used in laser tag mazes in the UK?

The UV CENTRE : - 99% 1200mm (4ft) T8 UV fittings and tubes.

TRUTNEE : - Do you have some specific types of UV lamps that can be used for creating special effects in the maze?

The UV CENTRE : - We supply a Phillips 1200mm (4ft) T8, as these appear to give the customer the best value for money:

TRUTNEE : - Typically, what quantity of fluorescent paints and UV lights should be purchased to decorate an average laser tag maze (say, of about 350 sq.m with a 3.5 m ceiling)?

The UV CENTRE : - We recommend a minimum of 10 x 1200mm per 100sqm (1000sqf) for lighting. A minimum of 5ltr fluorescent paint per 100sqm (1000sqf).

TRUTNEE : - What is chevron edge floor stencil and how can it be applied in a laser tag arena?

The UV CENTRE : - The Chevron edge floor stencil is used to paint chevron lines on the edge of the floor and up the lower part of arena walls and partitions. The Chevron stencil we have developed is laser cut from sheet metal and very durable. The idea is to rent this and other stencils to centres so that they can achieve a professional finish at a low cost.

TRUTNEE : - Can you supply special types of the products matching some individual specific requirements (i.e., non-standard products)?

The UV CENTRE : - All our brushable paints are intermixable, and we have made some colours specifically to match laser tag products in the past.

TRUTNEE : - What are your warranty and return policies?

The UV CENTRE : - I understand how important customer relations are, so we have a no quibble returns policy on all unused standard stock items.

TRUTNEE : - Thanks for your answers!

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