Line striping is an important part of pavement marking and parking lot design. There are three primary types of line striping – thermoplastic, epoxy, and waterborne paints – each with its own unique features and uses. Learn more about what to consider when choosing the best type for your project.
Thermoplastic Line Striping.
Thermoplastic line striping is a combination of thermoplastics and glass beads that are applied to asphalt or concrete surfaces to form lines and other markings. It is the most commonly used type of striping, due to its durability and flexibility. Thermoplastic striping can last for up to 5 years, with excellent removability should any modifications need to be made. These products are best for busy roads, highways, and long stretches of pavement.
Epoxy Line Striping.
Epoxy line striping is a more industrial type of line striping made up of resin and minerals. It’s designed to last for 3+ years, even in high-traffic areas with heavy vehicles coming through. It is usually used in parking garages or warehouses where there’s a lot of wear and tear from vehicles, such as forklifts and pallet trucks. It is not recommended for roads or highways due to its hard surface and difficulty in removal if repairs are needed.
Waterborne Line Striping.
Waterborne line striping is made up of water-based acrylic paints that are mixed with dyes. It is very economical, easy to apply and has a long life span (up to 5 years). This type of line striping can be used in almost any kind of environment - it’s suitable for both interior and exterior applications. It’s perfect for roads, parking lots, pathways, bicycle lanes and more! Plus, it holds up well against weather conditions like rain and snow.
Spot Marking and Other Specialty Applications.
In addition to the standard line striping applications, there are some more specialized uses for each type of line striping. For example, spot marking is popular in retail and commercial parking lots - bright colors like yellow or orange are used to mark specific spots, such as handicapped spaces. Epoxy can also be used to create decorative patterns and designs, making it perfect for sports courts, industrial warehouses or other high-traffic areas. Finally, thermoplastic can be used to create highly reflective lines which are ideal for roadway edge markings and other visibility applications.
How to Choose the Right Line Striping for Your Project?
When selecting the right line striping for your project, it’s important to consider the installation process and maintenance involved, as well as the durability of each type. Waterborne paint lines can be installed quickly, but they generally have a shorter lifespan than thermoplastic or epoxy lines. On the other hand, thermoplastic typically offers superior durability and more options in terms of reflectivity and customization compared to epoxy. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which type of line striping is best suited for your specific situation.
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