Traffic paint has been a staple of the construction industry for decades.  It’s useful for parking lot lines, walkway lines, and is used in all states across America.  When searching for a traffic paint, most products are either Type I or Type II.  This difference is important when considering where you’re going to apply the paint.  It also falls under federal regulations for specific uses.

Type 1 Traffic Paint is allowed in areas where it will have sufficient time to dry without interference (no tack dry time within 30 minutes).  Type 1 Traffic Paint is a good choice for parking lot jobs or apartment complexes where traffic can be blocked off.  It can also be used for roads in many instances.

Type 2 Traffic Paint should be used when paint needs to dry quickly.  Examples where Type 2 Traffic Paint could be used are cross walks and highways.  Ultra fast dry time is imperative (no tack dry time within 15 minutes) in order to keep drivers and pedestrians safe and create fewer hazards.

As a note, Type I Traffic Paint does have a relatively quick dry time, but Type II dries much faster for areas of high traffic.  We offer Type I and Type II traffic paint in a variety of colors to fit state and municipality specifications.

Thermoplastic

Traffic paint is a great option for completing larger sections of pavement and can cover more area faster than preformed thermoplastic.  Thermoplastic is used in everyday applications but you maybe just haven’t noticed.  Many water bottles as well as DVD cases are made from a type of thermoplastic.  It’s been a trend in the construction industry recently to use thermoplastic to easily mark road lines.

The benefit to using thermoplastic is ordering specifically what you need.  Get a handicap sign, 4 inch thick white line, or another symbol ready for application.  Thermoplastic is a material that will easily adhere to pavement under heat.  Symbols for turn lanes and other roadway warnings can be completed much faster than using traditional traffic paint with a roller or stencil.

In addition, thermoplastic often remains intact for a longer duration compared to traditional traffic paint.  This could prove to be a good investment and reduce recurring repairs.

There are many different colors available, including yellow, black, red, white, light green, etc.

While it does matter what project you’re doing and taking to mind state provisions, know that thermoplastic can often be a more durable, faster option.  That’s not to say that traditional traffic paint doesn’t have its pros.  Often it’s more cost-friendly and great for covering a larger surface area.

Whatever your project is - make sure to adhere to local and federal regulations.  Beyond that, we hope this information gives you some insight for which type of paint might be the best option for you.