Stenciling a helipad/helideck

Why use a stencil?

Stenciling a helipad/helideck can be a good solution for both a new installation and refreshing or rebranding a current installation.

Offshore - Refreshing a current installation is common due to heavy use and weathering. Stencils provide a relatively simple way to do this without the need for transporting heavy machinery to the site.

Wind Turbines - These often have helipads or helidecks to gain easy access. Marking these up can be a task once installed, so a quick and easy option is required. The logistics of getting the stencil on site is also a consideration.

Branding helipads - Some helipads require branding for identification, stencils can easily replicate a logo or brand.

Unlimited sizes - There is no maximum size design as each required design can be broken down into manageable stencil pieces.

Materials

25/190 polyester film

lightweight
rollable, easy to transport
generally only used once or twice
accurate results - can require more
preparation on un-even surfaces

250/350 polyester film

for best results use on flat surfaces
rollable & reusable

polypropylene

rigid
compatible with different surfaces
resuable
very quick application

Surfaces and materials

Helipads/Helidecks can have different surfaces. Luckily we can produce stencils in a variety of materials to suit your surface, desired finished effect and needs.

Your surface is - Smooth/flat

All types of material are compatible
The difference will depend on logistics and useage

Your surface is - Uneven and/or gritty

For sharp results our 125 micron polyester film cut with anchor points will work well
We also recommend hand cutting the stencil where it sits on the ground unevenly and then covering the holes with tape so the stencil lies flush
A rigid polypropylene stencil will also work well, which is reusable. Care should be taken when applying the paint to produce accurate results.
Helipads/Helidecks can have different surfaces. Luckily we can produce stencils in a variety of materials to suit your surface, desired finished effect and needs

Others factors which influence material include size of design, intended accuracy, curved surfaces, experience of those applying, intended transport to site and how many times the stencil will be re-used.

Process

Once your design and material have been finalised, the following process will be followed.

Proof approval - this is where we will send you a proof of the artwork as a stencil with dimensions attached to be approved before we cut it.
The production team will then cut each piece of the stencil in a sequence, which is then labelled, crosschecked and packed
A handy copy of the layout will be included for your reference
The stencil is either rolled of packed flat depending on material and shipped on a next day delivery service (may vary depending on location)

Artwork design file

How to use a helipad/helideck stencil

On a flat surface, application is straight forward. Below we have demonstrated application on a gritty uneven surface where it can be more challenging but certianly still possible.

Application using Polyester film

Lightweight 125 micron polyester film
The surface is gritty and uneven which is preventing the stencil from sitting flush, which is important for a sharp edge
Cut out the part of the stencil which is not sitting flush and cover it with masking tape
Anchor points have been laser cut in the stencil and held down with masking tape to help the stencil lay flat and stay in position while being painted
Use a roller to apply the paint
Get rid of any excess paint on the side of the stencil and roll away from the edges of the stencil to avoid bleed
Less is more, build paint gradually
Once dry remove the stencil slowly

Polyester stencils arranged ready for paint application with a roller