Parking lots play a big role in the curb appeal of any commercial property. A well-kept lot will provide a good first impression of your business and help facilitate safe traffic movement. An important aspect of parking lot maintenance is making sure the parking stalls remain clearly defined. Over time, the paint will fade, and your parking lot will require new striping. However, for the markings to last as long as possible, the surface must be properly prepared first.

How to Get Ready for Parking Lot Striping

1. Inspect for Damages

Painting fresh lines over a damaged surface won’t accomplish the results you’re looking for. As such, your parking lot should be carefully inspected for cracks and potholes.

These will often develop due to prolonged exposure to the elements and everyday vehicle use. Any areas of damage will need to be repaired before proceeding.  

2. Clear Away Dirt & Debris

Next, you want to make sure your parking lot is as clean as possible. Clear away all trash, dirt, gravel, tree branches, vegetation, and any other debris that could get in the way of the striping process. The surface will also need to be power washed to help eliminate dirt and debris that may be tougher to remove.

3. Apply Sealcoating

It’s recommended that sealcoating be applied to parking lots every three to five years, depending on how much traffic they get. This protects the surface from water damage and corrosive materials, boosting its overall appearance and increasing its life span.

It will also make the lot easier to clean and provide better traction for vehicles and pedestrians. If sealcoating is part of the job, it must be completed before any striping is done.

4. Turn Off Sprinklers

Your parking lot’s surface needs to be kept dry throughout your striping project. Thus, if you have a sprinkler system on your property, you’ll want to turn it off at least 24 hours before your contractor is scheduled to arrive.

This will give any water on the surface enough time to evaporate. It should also stay off for 24 hours after the paint has been applied to ensure it adheres correctly.

If you need to arrange parking lot repairs and/or sealcoating before starting a striping job, turn to TTAD in Reynoldsburg, OH. Their trained and skilled team of professionals are qualified to help improve the function and appearance of your commercial property at an affordable price. For the last decade, this general contractor has provided high-quality workmanship backed by proven industry expertise. Call (740) 927-1787 to schedule an estimate, or visit them online to learn more about their services.