When you think of a material that is suitable to apply on roads as markings, you probably picture a durable, visible and high quality material. Indeed, road line marking materials need to have all these features and more. Roads undergo a thorough beat down throughout the year, from constant sunshine to heavy rain and snow during the winter. The markings need to be able to withstand all this pressure while remaining visible for road users at all times.

There are several road-line marking materials that can be used. Because each material has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, you should be aware of the options that are available in the market. Your final selection will be dependent on the location, flow of traffic and the type of road surface you intend to mark.

Thermoplastic

Thermoplastic is the most commonly used material for road line markings. It involves the application of a hot molten thermoplastic medium to the surface of the road. Glass beads are then applied soon after to enhance the reflectivity of the surface.

Thermoplastic is highly durable and solidifies on the road surface as soon as it is applied. This makes it a highly useful substance for marking large areas of roads in both public and private spaces. There are also a range of colour options to choose from, including white, yellow, red, green and blue.

Traffic Paint

Traffic paint, also known as chlorinated rubber paint, is useful for road surfaces such as car parks, railways, playgrounds and roads. Chlorinated paint can come in the form of water-based paint or epoxy paint. Traffic paint is highly durable and solvent free, which allows it to dry quickly and in an environmentally friendly manner.

Traffic paint is also available in a wide variety of colours, including any special colour combinations that you may desire. It also adheres very well to block paving and concrete surfaces.

Pre-formed Thermoplastic

Per-formed thermoplastic is much the same road line marking material as thermoplastic itself. The only difference is that pre-formed thermoplastic comes in a ready to use form where it can be simply applied to road surfaces straight from its packaging. It is slightly more expensive than the regular thermoplastic due to its more convenient form.

Tape

In some cases, you may need road line markings that are only temporary and easy to remove once you're finished. For example, marathons, charity events and construction detours may require only temporary markings to be made on the road.

Tape and some types of paints offer a perfect material for providing visible and dependable directions to people while on the road. They can also be easily removed once you no longer need them.