Choosing the right pavement markings is essential for commercial property managers who prioritize safety, compliance, and long-term value. Thermoplastic and epoxy pavement markings deliver exceptional durability, visibility, and resistance to intense traffic and harsh weather, making them the preferred choice for outdoor surfaces. Discover how these advanced solutions can protect your investment, ensure ADA compliance, and enhance your property's curb appeal.
Why Pavement Markings Matter
Pavement markings do far more than simply direct traffic or designate parking spaces, they are a cornerstone of property safety and organization.
Critical to Traffic & Pedestrian Safety: Markings reduce accident risk, clearly indicate traffic flow, and help drivers navigate confined or complex areas such as parking garages and lots.
First Impressions & Value: Bright, well-maintained markings improve curb appeal and project a professional image, increasing tenant and customer satisfaction.
Compliance Reduces Liability: Failure to meet ADA standards can result in costly fines or legal challenges. Consistent, visible markings are an essential part of risk management for property managers.
What Are Thermoplastic and Epoxy Markings?
Thermoplastic Pavement Markings
Material & Application: Thermoplastic markings consist of plastic polymers that are heated to around 400°F and then applied in a molten state directly onto the surface. The material can also be installed using a screed application method, where it is spread evenly with a blade or box to achieve the desired thickness.
Features: Forms a thick (90-150 mil), hard-wearing line that resists damage from traffic, weather, and chemicals.
Best Uses: High-traffic drive lanes, crosswalks, fire lanes, and parking lots.
Epoxy Pavement Markings
Material & Application: Epoxy is a two-component resin that is mixed and applied cold onto the pavement. It cures to form a durable, chemical-resistant marking.
Features: Excellent adhesion, strong color retention, and superior resistance to oil, salt, and de-icers.
Best Uses: Parking garages, industrial facilities, traffic safety zones, or anywhere with exposure to chemicals and heavy vehicles.
Enhanced Performance and Versatility
Visibility: Engineered to maintain high visibility in all weather and lighting conditions. Thermoplastic and epoxy markings can be embedded with glass beads for superior nighttime reflectivity.
Durability: Epoxy markings withstand frequent power washing, heavy truck traffic, and freeze-thaw cycles without significant fading or chipping. Thermoplastic markings are durable under heavy use and power washing, but do not perform as well in freeze-thaw environments.
Chemical & Salt Resistance: Especially valuable in Northeast climates, where regular de-icing and exposure to vehicle fluids are unavoidable.
Custom Application: Professional contractors can create custom branded markings, warning zones, ADA graphics, and specialty solutions for interior safety paths and hazard areas.
Compliance & Safety Standards
ADA Compliance: Ensure accessible spaces are properly marked with wheelchair symbols, van-accessible designations, loading access aisles, and appropriate contrast or reflectivity.
State Requirements: Stay current with local and federal regulations on; line width, color, and reflectivity for drive lanes, stop bars, crosswalks, and fire lanes.
Pavement Marking Details & Installation Process
Pre-Installation
Site evaluation for substrates, drainage, and repair needs
Detailed project plan for traffic flow, safety barriers, and scheduling for minimal disruption
Removal of old markings if necessary
Application Details
Mechanical cleaning (and sometimes grinding) for optimal adhesion
Use of stencils for specialty symbols and branding
Thermoplastic is applied hot using specialized equipment; epoxy is mixed and sprayed cold
Post-Installation
Rapid curing (thermoplastics can be ready for traffic in less than an hour)
Final inspection and compliance verification
Specialty Markings
Fire lanes, crosswalks, and stop bars
Numbered spaces, directional arrows, custom safety zones
Company logos and branding
Ready to Upgrade Your Safety & Curb Appeal?
Enhance your property’s safety, compliance, and value with long-lasting thermoplastic and epoxy pavement markings. Get top-quality workmanship and expert project planning, contact Line Pro Inc. for a free consultation and quote today.
