A Guide to Line Marking Paint Performance in Winter
Winter brings unique challenges for road and line marking projects...
With cold temperatures potentially impacting the performance and curing times of paint -
Choosing the right paint for winter applications is crucial to maintain productivity, safety and quality.
Challenges of Winter Line Marking
Slower Curing Times
Cold temperatures slow down the chemical reaction responsible for curing many types of paints.
This can lead to delays in completing projects and increased vulnerability of markings to damage before they fully cure.
Reduced Adhesion and Visibility
Lower temperatures can affect paint adhesion to surfaces, particularly damp or frost-covered ones, compromising durability.
Additionally, achieving high visibility in winter conditions is vital for road safety, making quality paint critical.
Limited Application Window
Winterโs shorter days and unpredictable weather can narrow the window for outdoor applications, demanding paints that perform reliably in suboptimal conditions.
Proper Line Marking Paint Storage and Surface Preparation
Effects of Cold Weather on Durability
Cold weather can impact the long-term durability of line markings if the paint is not correctly applied: Paint may become brittle if applied in freezing conditions without proper preparation.
Suboptimal curing due to extreme cold can lead to reduced longevity and visibility of the markings. Ensuring proper curing conditions prevents early wear and fading, keeping markings effective longer.
Paint Storage
Proper storage is essential to maintain paint quality during colder months:
- Store paint indoors at a temperature above 5ยฐC.
- Avoid exposure to freezing conditions, which can compromise the chemical composition of the paint.
- Rotate stock regularly to ensure older paint is used first.
Surface Preparation
Preparing the surface correctly ensures optimal adhesion and durability:
- Clean the surface thoroughly to remove dirt, debris, and grease.
- Ensure the area is dry and free from frost or ice before application.
- Use dehumidifiers or heaters if necessary to create suitable application conditions.
Recommended Winter-Ready Line Marking Solution: RoadLine L225 Rapid Cure Line Marking Paint
RoadLine L225 has been engineered specifically for winter line marking. Hereโs why it stands out:
Fast Curing in Low Temperatures
L225 maintains a fast-curing time even in temperatures as low as 5ยฐC. This allows contractors to continue projects without delays, ensuring markings are ready for use quickly.
Certified High Performance
L225 is certified for exceptional day and night visibility, retaining its reflective properties even after 4-million-wheel passes. This ensures maximum safety for road users throughout winter.
Compatibility with the New RoadLiner 570
The RoadLiner 570 system provides a revolutionary cold-applied MMA paint technology. In high-performance applications that cure in 2 minutes, the RoadLiner 570 paint can reach over 400 mcd, resulting in a remarkable increase in visibility of between 100% and 400%.
Durable and Reliable Results
The paint adheres well to various surfaces and maintains durability under challenging winter conditions. This means longer-lasting line markings that resist wear and tear despite exposure to harsh weather and traffic.
Tips for Optimal Winter Line Marking Application
- Surface Preparation: Ensure surfaces are dry and free of frost or ice before application to maximize adhesion.
- Monitor Weather Conditions: Choose days with stable temperatures and minimal precipitation to ensure the best results.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Follow L225โs application instructions for best performance and longevity.
Preparing Your Machine for Winter
Properly maintaining and storing your line marking equipment during winter ensures optimal performance and extends its lifespan.
One essential step is using Graco Pump Armor to protect your sprayer during storage. Hereโs how it helps:
Benefits of Graco Pump Armor
- Protects from Freezing: Freeze-proof down to -34ยฐC, Pump Armor is ideal for colder climates, preventing damage from freezing temperatures.
- Prevents Corrosion: Keeps the pumpโs components lubricated and guards against corrosion caused by water or other liquids.
- Prolongs Lifespan: Maintains pump functionality and extends its operational lifespan by reducing wear.
- Ensures Easy Start-Up: Facilitates smooth start-up when the sprayer is next used.
How to Use Graco Pump Armor
- Clean your paint sprayer thoroughly after use.
- Fill the pump with Pump Armor fluid.
- Leave the fluid in the system until the next use.
Pump Armor can also be used to store leftover water-based material in the machine, gun, or hose. This prevents freezing, as water-based materials expand when frozen, potentially causing significant damage.
Why Choose Meon for Winter Line Marking Solutions?
Meon is committed to providing top-quality products and support for all your line marking needs, weโve got you covered this winter.
Get Started Today
Donโt let winter slow you down. Contact Meon to learn more and ensure your line marking projects stay on schedule and meet the highest standards, no matter the season.
Are you looking to book your annual line marking machine service? Get in touch with us today!
