How to Prepare Your Parking Lot For New Line Striping
Picture this: A customer circles your parking lot for the third time, frustrated by faded lines and unsure where to park. Or worse, two vehicles collide because worn-out directional arrows are barely visible due to high traffic erosion and long-term weather wear.
If these scenarios sound familiar, it’s time to consider refreshing your parking lot striping around your business or property. Clear, visible striping not only maximizes your efficiency but also plays an enormous role in safety and traffic flow. When drivers can easily find all pathways, entrances, and exits, the risk of accidents drops significantly, helping your customers start their visit on the right foot.
6 Steps to Get Your Parking Lot Ready
Think of prepping your parking lot like preparing for a paint job inside your home. You wouldn’t want to start painting your walls before moving furniture and cleaning surfaces. The same principle applies here but with higher stakes for public safety. Let’s dive into the essential steps that will help make sure your line-striping project delivers long-lasting results.
1. Inspect The Parking Lot
Thoroughly check your parking lot by walking the entire surface and noting any damage that you find, as it is extremely difficult to paint over any cracks or potholes. Not only that, but rain can seep down into the pavement and potentially destroy the asphalt if not patched up before the winter.
Consider scheduling pothole repair or asphalt crack filling repair services before proceeding with your striping project.
2. Alert Others About Your Renovation Plans
Nobody likes surprises. Remember that one time you arrived at your favorite store only to find out the parking lot was closed for maintenance? If you’re planning to redo the striping during regular business hours, be sure to inform your employees, clients, or tenants ahead of time.
It will also help to give reminders as the project date approaches and possible alternative parking options. The more notice you provide, the smoother your project will run.
3. Arrange For Parking at Another Location
Your newly striped parking lot needs proper drying time to ensure long-term durability, and the last thing you want to happen is a car driving on the wet paint and a potential problem ensuing. Be proactive and scout out nearby locations for temporary parking arrangements. The parking lot will need around an hour to dry, and while a temporary parking lot is usually only needed for a day, it’s best to give at least one week’s notice.
Not only that, but it is also a good idea to place signs around the project site to keep pedestrians informed and prevent anyone from accidentally stepping on any wet paint.
4. Sweep The Parking Lot
A thorough sweep isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating the perfect foundation for your new lines to adhere to. It’s like trying to adhere a bandage to a dirty scrape. The accumulation of leaves, dirt patches, and scattered debris can sabotage even the best-quality paint job.
Consider pressure washing any particularly grimy areas before sweeping for the best results. The cleaner your surface, the longer your new lines will last and the more professional your lot will look.
5. Turn Off Your Sprinkler System
Water and fresh paint mix as well as oil and vinegar. Turn off your sprinkler systems at least 12 hours before striping begins. During cooler weather, it’s recommended to turn off the system up to 24 hours beforehand, as evaporation is slower when it’s cold.
Don’t just rely on turning off the automatic timer and hoping it’ll work; physically verify the system is disabled to prevent any expensive and embarrassing mishaps.
6. Hire an Experienced Asphalt Contractor
Looking for the right asphalt paving contractor can be difficult. The right contractor brings more than just paint and equipment—they bring expertise that can:
- Optimize your lot layout for maximum efficiency
- Ensure ADA compliance to avoid any violations
- Complete the job quickly and correctly the first time
- Provide insights about maintenance and longevity
Think of it as an investment in your property’s future and not just a “today” expense.
Asphalt Line Striping Services in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.
Ready to transform your parking lot? Our parking lot line striping services at Blue Curb, LLC are designed to exceed your expectations. Serving Northern Virginia, Western Maryland, and the D.C. Metro area, we combine cutting-edge equipment with old-fashioned attention to detail and customer service. Our team approaches each project with the same commitment to excellence, from refreshing existing lines to an entire parking lot layout.
Don’t let your parking lot be the first impression you regret making. Contact us today or call us at (571)-437-1787 and discover how we can help you create a safer, more organized, and professionally appealing parking facility that makes both you and your visitors feel safe and welcome.