The Art of Road Signage: Thermoplastic Pavement Markings Explained

Whether you’re a business owner looking to enhance your commercial parking lot’s aesthetics, or you want to improve safety for your customers and employees, the right pavement markings are essential. Thermoplastic markings are much more durable and long-lasting than paint, and can withstand harsh weather conditions and chemicals like de-icing salt and oils. They’re also easy to apply and eye-catching, and can be used to create a variety of symbols, markings, and signs.

Thermoplastic, as the name implies, is a polymer that converts to a liquid when heated but returns to its solid form when cooled. This makes it a great choice for traffic markings, as the material can be easily shaped to create precise lines and shapes. This type of marking can be applied by hand, or by a machine with a spray gun that applies the hot substance to the surface of the road or other paved area.

There are several different types of thermoplastic, each with its own unique properties and advantages. One popular choice is PreMark, which is an amorphous thermoplastic that’s available in various colors and is easily customized to meet the specific needs of any project. Another option is AirMark, which is a durable, preformed thermoplastic that’s best for runway and taxiway delineation. It can be used to mark taxiway hold positions, geographic position markers, vehicle roadways, aprons, and runway parking and tie downs.

Regardless of the type of thermoplastic used, all of them can be used to create clear and concise visual indicators that can help improve road safety. They’re also easier to maintain than painted markings, as they can resist weathering and chemical wear and tear. thermoplastic markings are also highly visible, even in low light or at night, and can be enhanced with glass beads to offer better reflectivity and visibility.

Thermoplastic markings have become the industry standard for parking lots and roads because they’re more durable than traditional paint. They can be applied all year round, and can be topped with a gloss sealer to increase their lifespan even further. Thermoplastic also doesn’t fade, so it’s a better choice for areas that need to be marked in the long term than painted markings that may need to be repainted more often.

While thermoplastics are a great choice for paving and road markings, it’s important to work with a professional company that has experience and specialized equipment. They’ll be able to determine the right type of marking for your pavement, and can ensure that it is properly installed and maintained. They will also be able to provide you with a free estimate, so that you can begin making your commercial property safer for both your customers and employees. Contact the experts at Standard Striping today for more information about thermoplastic markings and to request a free quote.