Thermoplastic Road Markings

Hot-Melt Thermoplastic Road Markings

Hot-applied thermoplastic road markings are made by heating a special type of colored powder that contains a mixture of resin, pigment, filler, and glass beads, which makes the paint skid-resistant once dried. After application, hot-melt thermoplastic paint dries almost instantly and is road-ready after just a few minutes.

While hot-melt thermoplastic road markings require in-depth machinery and setup, the painting process is relatively quick when done by trained contractors. Hot-melt paint is ideal for large projects that involve long stretches of straight lines or patterns, and is commonly used on roadways, parking lots, airports, and other similar applications.

Preformed Thermoplastic Road Markings

Preformed thermoplastic road markings refer to markings that are premade into specific symbols and shapes. During application, the preformed materials are placed on the ground and heated by a propane torch. The high temperatures emitted from the torch are meant to cure the image into the road’s surface.

For those considering preformed thermoplastic road markings for their property, be aware that thermoplastic is not suited for use on concrete without primer. Thermoplastic road markings are known to work best on asphalt surfaces.

Anti-Skid Properties

Thermoplastic road markings contain little glass beads that add traction wherever they are applied. These beads increase the road’s friction, which reduces the risk of vehicle skidding on wet roads and improves braking speed. This anti-skid property makes thermoplastic road markings ideal for intersections, crosswalks, and highways prone to frequent rain, sleet, or snow.

High Reflectivity

Thermoplastic markings improve driver reaction time by enhancing line visibility at night and during harsh weather conditions that would otherwise render normal line striping useless. This type of paint contains thousands of tiny glass beads that reflect light from car headlights and street lights in concentrated beams.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Thermoplastic Markings Last?

Under ideal conditions, thermoplastic markings can be expected to last 3 – 5 years after installation.

When Should Thermoplastic Markings Be Used Over Normal Line Striping?

Thermoplastic markings are well-suited for high-traffic roadways, such as highways, intersections, and crosswalks, or roads that have specific durability requirements due to inclement weather conditions.

How Much Does Thermoplastic Marking Cost?

The cost of thermoplastic marking will depend on the size and location of the project. In comparison to normal line striping, thermoplastic marking can be a much larger investment.

How Long Does Thermoplastic Paint Take To Dry?

One of the main benefits of thermoplastic markings is their quick drying time. Because a key component of the paint is made from resin, thermoplastic markings dry within minutes and can be driven on almost immediately after application.