The Lifespan of Line Markings: How Long They Last & How to Make Them Last Longer

Line marking isn’t just an aesthetic feature in commercial parking lots and laneways. It’s essential for efficient traffic management, ensuring the safety of employees, visitors, and clientele on your property.

But how long can these markings be counted on before they fade into oblivion? Like all things exposed to environmental elements, line markings can quickly diminish without proper care and maintenance.

In this article, we explore everything there is to know about line markings, including how long they last and how to make them last longer, so you can save yourself money and headaches in the long run.

The Importance of Line Markings for Commercial Properties

Have you ever thought about how your commercial property would function if you didn’t have any line markings on the ground? No stop lines, crosswalks, directional arrows, or parking spot lines. The result would likely be chaos, accidents, and personal injuries.

Aside from pavement makings being a legal requirement for commercial properties as per Ontario’s provincial parking standards, allowing the line markings in your parking lot to diminish or, in some cases, not have any, is a huge liability. Painted line markings allow motorists and pedestrians to access your business safely and securely.

This is why all line markings must be clearly visible in your parking lot. Although line markings won’t last forever and will need to be replaced over time, regularly inspecting your property can slow down the deterioration.

Understanding the Lifespan of Line Markings

Overall, the typical lifespan of pavement line markings is between 12 to 36 months, depending on several factors. Busy parking lots such as those at malls and commercial businesses may require maintenance more frequently than private car parks and residential buildings.

Below are some factors that affect the lifespan of line markings.

• Traffic Volume and Type:

  A large number of passenger and delivery vehicles pass through parking lots daily. Over time, the continual pressure of vehicles wears down the painted lines, necessitating renewal. High traffic volume can speed up the wear and tear of the lines as abrasion from the tires weakens the molecules of the paint.

• Weather Conditions:

  Thanks to the volatile winter conditions in Ontario, line markings can be exposed to extreme weather conditions year-round. Intense sun exposure, frequent heavy rains, snowstorms, and ice storms can all cause lines to face, peel, and crack over time. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can be particularly harsh, leading to premature fading.

• Abrasive Chemicals:

  Chemical spills, oils, vehicle fluids, and winterizing materials, such as road salt, can also reduce the lifespan of the paint. When motor oils and automotive chemicals come in contact with line markings, their corrosive influence can be irreversible, accelerating deterioration.

• Material Quality:

  There are various materials used to create line markings, including paint, thermoplastic, resin, and tape. Painted lines are the most cost-effective and commonly used line markings for parking lots. However, only professional line marking paint offers sound adhesion to the surface for long-lasting results.

• Application Method:

  Newly applied asphalt requires time for curing before lines can be painted while existing asphalt surfaces need to be properly swept and repaired before line marking is applied. For safety reasons, old lines should always be removed before new lines are painted on.

• Lack of Maintenance:

  Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to the deterioration of line markings on commercial properties. Over time, dirt, debris, and other substances can build up on top of the lines, making them less visible and prone to damage. Regular cleaning and upkeep can help extend the life of line markings and prevent them from deteriorating prematurely.

Extending the Life of Your Lines: Strategies for Durability

Faded lines in a parking lot might seem like a superficial concern, but they can lead to deep-seated safety risks. An unclear assortment of lines can cause confusion and accidents, meaning extending the life of your lines is essential.

Line markings are not permanent and they will need to be replaced over time; however, by taking precautions and scheduling regular maintenance of your property, you can extend the lifespan of your lines and save money in the long run.

Before you apply new lines, the pavement must be prepared. This includes cleaning and clearing away debris. Also, make sure to remove the existing line markings for safety reasons. The surface of the asphalt must also be primed to ensure the paint adheres correctly. Use state-of-the-art equipment and methods to apply the new line markings. Line-marking application is more a craft than a chore. The right technique and trained hands can make all the difference when it comes to longevity.

Using quality products is also essential, as is choosing the right paint for your specific needs and property conditions. The components should be resistant to fading, cracking, and damage from wear and tear and environmental elements. Never compromise on quality. High-grade materials and expert applications may cost more initially, but they will save money and lives in the long run.

To ensure the line markings remain smooth and visible, regularly inspect and maintain them. If you notice signs of fading or peeling, address them right away to prevent the risk of accidents. For added protection, you can opt to sealcoat your parking lot, which will protect the line markings from wear and extend the lifespan.

Ensure Long-Lasting Line Markings with Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc.

Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. is your one-stop shop for all of your Toronto and GTA asphalt maintenance, installation, and repair needs. We provide exceptional parking lot line marking services and use only the highest-grade industry products and methods to remove and apply new line markings.

All of our products and services come with an extensive seven-year warranty to give you the peace of mind that you need and our crew has over 20 years of experience working in the asphalt industry. Contact us today to schedule a free no-obligation consultation on your property.