A freshly striped parking lot will certainly look much better than before, but unfortunately, looks can be deceiving. If proper preparation of the surface is not performed, the improved look of the parking lot striping will be temporary. Striping contractors know that they will need to perform several tasks before the first drop of paint is applied.
Why Surface Prep is Key in Parking Lot Line Striping
What Is the Procedure for Preparing for Asphalt Striping?
Every experienced contractor who performs parking lot striping has developed his own sequence of procedures. Therefore, the following steps may be performed in a different order, and there may be some steps that are not necessary for your particular parking lot.
1. Before any physical work begins on the parking lot, a thorough evaluation of the structure should be performed by a professional and knowledgeable pavement striping contractor. An experienced asphalt contractor will want to determine the overall condition of the parking lot and conduct a detailed examination of the construction techniques and materials used in its construction. Any previous repairs made to the parking lot asphalt surface should be noted and the integrity of the repair assessed. The contractor can now initiate a plan of action to ensure a professionally striped and marked pavement.
2. Properly preparing the surface will increase the longevity of the asphalt striping and pavement markings. The surface of the asphalt pavement must be smooth and clean for the striping material to adhere properly. Caked-on dirt, piles of fallen leaves and trash will need to be removed.
3. Cracks and pot holes must be repaired. Any old striping material needs to be removed completely and the surface prepared for the new striping material. A slick surface interferes with the adhesion of the striping material, so he may need to scar the asphalt where paint will be applied.
4. Vehicle fluids will cause premature deterioration of the line striping as well as the surrounding asphalt surface. Furthermore, oil-based fluids will prevent the paint from forming a sufficient bond, so the contractor will likely clean and/or prime areas containing leaked automotive fluids.
5. Asphalt sealcoating the entire parking lot will produce a revitalized surface that is both attractive and well-protected. Most asphalt striping Atlanta contractors recommend having sealcoating applied as part of the striping job; typically, asphalt sealcoating and parking lot paint have roughly the same life. Only your contractor can advise on the proper schedule for the usage that your pavement receives, but most parking lots need both services every two years.
6. The porosity of the pavement and the type of paint used will determine the number of coats needed. For some asphalt parking lots, a single coat is sufficient for a crisp, vibrant look. However, some pavements will need to have two thin coats of paint applied. Your contractor will assess your pavement, and he may need to perform additional work to ensure a better bond between the striping paint and the asphalt.
MH Greeson specializes in parking lot maintenance for customers in the Atlanta metropolitan area and most other locations in North Georgia. We have an exemplary reputation that has been earned by delivering exceptional work at budget-friendly rates. Our services include sealcoating, crack repairs, pothole repairs, parking lot markings and striping, parking lot signs, car stops, bollards and asphalt paving. You can fill out the online form to request a free quote or call our office at 770-335-2983.
