They are everywhere – asphalt striping. As simple as they are, markings on driveways, pavements, and parking lots, striping plays a crucial role in keeping drivers safe and make their lives easy when finding suitable parking.
But over time, traffic wear and the elements cause the markings to either fade or completely disappear from pavements and parking lots. This is why maintenance should be part of any business establishment’s routine, especially the striping in a parking lot or roadway.
What is asphalt striping?
It is essentially the process of applying or re-applying marks and signs on roadways, pavements, and parking lots using paint or molten thermoplastic.
In the United States, asphalt striping is a requirement for all business establishments with pavements and parking lots. It is also required for all roadways in all states in the country.
Why do you need asphalt striping?
Proper parking lot or driveway markings are necessary. Not only because the law requires it but also because it helps promote safety, it offers proper organization and division within an outdoor space and it adds a better aesthetic to an otherwise boring pavement, driveway, or parking lot.
For instance, parking lot striping will allow you to maximize your parking space to accommodate different types of vehicles. Experienced striping companies are knowledgeable in this area, they follow local and state guidelines to properly measure and layout space to ensure that your markings are not too narrow. This way, people with disabilities can have access to parking areas and other customers will not have difficulty in parking.
Parking lot striping also helps to reduce accidents and protects property owners from liability. This is because any injury that resulted due to improperly marked or faded markings can or will result in penalties or lawsuits.
What surfaces are usually stripped?
Pavements, driveways, and parking lots are three of the most common surfaces that require proper pavement stripping. This is because they have the most car and foot traffic, and are the riskiest areas for accidents if they are not properly marked.
What are the legal requirements for asphalt striping in the USA?
Each state has its own legal requirements for asphalt striping and a professional striping contractor already knows this. These legal requirements include the types of lines or stripes to be used for markings.
For instance, parking lot striping requires lines that should be 4” wide by 15-18” long. You also need to use either an oil-based or latex paint for striping that should be applied for two coats.
Asphalt striping companies also need to follow the exact measurements for parallel and angle parking. Using specific measurements for aisles to make sure that everyone can park safely and avoid accidents within the parking lot.
What are the best materials for asphalt striping?
Whether you choose to use paint or molten thermoplastic for your pavement, it’s very important to choose the best materials so you can ensure the longevity of your markings. If you’re going for paint, you have to choose one that would last considering the weather conditions in your area.
For instance, acetone-based paint is recommended for asphalt striping in the mid-Atlantic region, because it works best in lower temperatures.
Some asphalt striping companies also use molten thermoplastic because it lasts longer and can adapt to almost any kind of weather conditions.
How can you choose the right local striping contractor?
When it comes to choosing the best local striping contractor, you need to select one who is very knowledgeable in local asphalt pavement striping rules and regulations. One that offers fair competitive pricing, and has access to the best quality materials and equipment for the job.
You should also look for an asphalt striping company that has many years in the trade and can provide local references.
Most blacktop striping companies provide other paving services such as driveway resurfacing, parking lot maintenance, and sealcoating.
When these contractors take on a driveway resurfacing job, they normally opt to use recycled asphalt for your driveway or parking lot. This recycled asphalt is considered just as durable as virgin asphalt, it costs less and environmentally friendly.
