If you are a business owner with a brick-and-mortar location, thermoplastic pavement markings should be something on your priority list. Your surrounding paved lot is more than an investment; it is also potential liability if not properly maintained. Furthermore, it must be kept in adherence to all local and state regulations, including ADA compliancy codes.
Continue reading to learn more about thermoplastic pavement markings, and what you can do to ensure your commercial or industrial lot is up to code and well-preserved for years to come.
What are Thermoplastic Pavement Markings?
Thermoplastic pavement markings are a specially formulated type of polymer that turns into liquid form when exposed to high levels of heat; 392 degrees Fahrenheit to be exact! Once cooled, or cured as we pavement contractors say in the industry, thermoplastic pavement markings turn back into a solid. For this reason, they are used in a wide range of industries all across the world, including in applications for machinery parts and hardware, consumer goods, packaging, medical instruments and devices, stored materials, and of course, road safety and paving.
Hot Melt Marking Paint
In terms of road safety and paving applications, thermoplastic pavement markings are used as paint, also known as hot melt marking paint. As mentioned, this paint is heated to the high level of 392°F, which is the necessary temperature in order for thermoplastic marking paint to turn into a liquid. Once in liquid form, it can be applied to all sorts of flat, grounded surfaces in parking lots, roads, streets, and more.
For many pavement markings, templates, cut-outs, and stencils are used to create the needed symbol, marking, sign, or directive. Once the paint is poured, it is allowed to completely cool and hardened. At that point, the stencil is removed and what’s left is thick, wear-resistant markings that will last for years with good pavement care.
The most common types of markings made with thermoplastic pavement paint include:
▻ Handicap Spaces
▻ Parking Spaces
▻ Reserved Parking Spaces
▻ Arrows for Directing Traffic
▻ STOP Markings
▻ Emergency/Fire Lanes
▻ Crosswalks
▻ NO PARKING Zones
▻ Bus Lanes
▻ SLOW Zones
▻ Bollard Posts
▻ Loading Docks
▻ Mobility Ramps
▻ Bike Lanes
▻ Curbs and Steps
Aside from their longevity and resistance to wear and tear, many proprietors are pleased with thermoplastic markings because they are bright, reflective, and deliver a higher level of aesthetic compared to regular pavement paint. Best of all, hot melt marking paint dries quickly, and can even be walked on or driven on after only a few minutes!
Are your pavement markings looking a little dull, or non-existent altogether? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for top-quality, cost-effective line striping and road marking services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee!
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