If you own a commercial property, refreshing your parking lot striping may not be at the top of your to-do list. With so many tasks on your plate, it can be easy to let years go by without repainting, allowing the lines to fade over time until drivers aren’t sure where to park anymore.
However, parking lot striping is an important aspect of maintaining your property — not only does repainting improve aesthetics, but it also ensures everyone’s safety and helps you comply with ADA regulations. When you let the lines slowly disappear as the asphalt experiences wear and tear, your customers can be frustrated or confused.
At Precision Asphalt Maintenance, we want you to know why it’s important to seek professional line striping services and understand how often you should repaint your parking lot. If you’re a property owner, keep reading to get into the details of this issue and learn how this simple improvement can make a big difference.
Why Parking Lot Striping Matters
You don’t realize how important parking lot striping is until it’s gone. Without clearly visible markings telling you where to park, which direction to go, and where to cross, your parking loss can become a chaotic, frustrating mess.
Here’s just a few of the reasons why parking lot striping matters:
- Improves safety: Clearly defined lines help reduce accidents and confusion.
- Enhances curb appeal: Fresh paint looks professional and inviting. It shows customers that you care about their experience.
- Regulates traffic flow: Directional arrows and space markers guide drivers effectively, helping you avoid traffic jams and frustration.
- Ensures ADA compliance: Handicap spaces and access markings must be visible and up to code in order to comply with ADA regulations and protect your business from fines.
General Timeline for Repainting
Now that you know why repainting your parking lot shouldn’t fall to the bottom of your to-do list, let’s discuss the general timeline for repainting. In general, you should expect to need to refresh your commercial parking lot every year or two. However, high-traffic areas may need repainting every six to 12 months, and low-traffic areas can sometimes go for longer than two years if the lines are still visible.
Regular inspections are necessary to assess the paint’s visibility and wear. Walk through the parking lot every month or two and check whether the lines are fading. If you notice they’re looking a little worse for wear, it’s time for repainting.
Factors That Affect How Often You Should Repaint
No two parking lots are the same, and there are several factors that will affect how often you should repaint them, including:
- Traffic: The more traffic your parking lot sees, the more wear and tear it will experience and faster the paint will fade.
- Weather conditions: Sun exposure, rainfall, and snow can all contribute to paint deterioration.
- Quality of previous striping job: High-quality paint products and proper application methods mean your painted lines will last longer.
- Asphalt condition: Cracks and potholes in the asphalt can affect the paint’s longevity and visibility.
- Local regulations: Some municipalities require periodic repainting in order to comply with regulations. Check with your local government to determine if this applies to you.
Signs It’s Time to Repaint
If you’re wondering whether it’s time to repaint your parking lot, be on the lookout for these signs:
- Faded or barely visible lines
- Confusing or unclear traffic flow
- Increased customer complaints or near-misses
- Worn or missing ADA markings
Additionally, re-striping is required after certain asphalt maintenance procedures, including sealcoating and resurfacing. You may also need to touch up some areas affected by repairs.
What to Expect During the Repainting Process
Repainting is typically a pretty quick process. Of course, larger parking lots will take longer. However, the paint usually only takes about an hour to dry, so you don’t have to wait very long before driving on it again.
Before applying the paint, you’ll have to clean the area, block it off, and add signage. To minimize business disruptions, schedule repainting during off hours or work on one section at a time.
Reliable Line Striping by Precision Asphalt Maintenance
If you’ve been putting off repainting your parking lot, it’s time to do something about it. At Precision Asphalt Maintenance, we’re dedicated to providing you with the reliable line striping service you need to ensure your parking lot is safe, accessible, and appealing. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help or to inquire about a free estimate.
