How Long Does Line Marking Paint Last?

The answer isn't straight forward unfortunately and depends on primarily four factors: the surface, the paint type, the applied thickness, and how much traffic the lines get. We will break it down and try to give some indicative lifespans and answer the question - How Long Does Line Marking Paint Last.

1. Surface Type

The substrate on which line marking paint is applied plays a significant role in its longevity.​

• Asphalt: This porous material tends to absorb paint, which is good for adhesion, although a thicker layer of paint is required to make the lines bright. Older asphalt where the surface is starting to be abraded may need painting more often as tyre movements abrade the surface and paint comes with it. Typical repainting times on asphalt are 12-24 months for busy carparks, and 3-5 years for less well used car parks. Everyones perception on when a line has faded too far is different and a 3 year old line will look like it needs painting to one person, and another could think a 5 year old line is still fine.

• Concrete: While less porous than asphalt, concrete surfaces require thorough cleaning to ensure proper paint adhesion. Without adequate preparation, paint may chip or peel prematurely. Concrete surfaces benefit from a primer. The lifespan on concrete should be similar to asphalt, but the way the paint deteriorates is different. It is more common for it to fail in patches where adhesion was worse than in other areas. White lines also look less white on concrete, as the contrast isn't as high as asphalt and therefore in some ways need painting more frequently. Some choose yellow painted lines for this reason.

• Pre-Existing Painted Surfaces: It is hard to know what paint was used in the past and what the prep was like, although there will be some clues from how the lines have performed over time. Generally the lifespan is similar to other surface types.

  
  

2. Paint Type

Different types of line marking paints offer varying degrees of durability:​

• Water-Based Paint: Eco-friendly and quick-drying, suitable for low-traffic areas. Typically lasts between 6 to 12 months. Generally used in jurastictions where VOCs have been regulated - i.e. solvent paint cant be used by Law.

• Solvent-Based Paint: More durable than water-based options, resistant to oil and grease, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. Lifespan ranges from 12 to 24 months or more.

• Thermoplastic Paint: Highly durable and reflective, often used on roads and highways. Can last between 3 to 5 years, depending on traffic conditions. ​Typically used in colder climates as it can be applied to cold and slightly damp surfaces. Not used in car parks in New Zealand.

• Epoxy Paint: Extremely hard-wearing and chemical-resistant, suitable for industrial environments. Offers a lifespan of 5 to 8 years. Usually only used indoors as it is not UV stable.

• MMA (Methyl Methacrylate): Cold-applied and known for exceptional durability, lasting up to 10 years in optimal conditions. Gaining in popularity in New Zealand, but still rarely used due to price.

  
  

  

  A freshly applied Thermoplastic line marking

  
  
  
  

3. Application Thickness

The thickness of the paint application directly impacts its durability and the strange thing is, barely any customer asks or specifies how thick the paint should be applied. We apply a minimum of 200 microns (wet) which we periodically check with a wet film thickness gauge. This is above the 150micron NZ standard. Some line markers out there save a bit on paint by dusting it on thin, but this is such a disservice to their customers.

• Thin Applications: While cost-effective, thinner layers are more susceptible to wear and may require more frequent reapplication.​

• Thicker Applications: Provide enhanced durability and longevity, especially in high-traffic areas. However, they require more material and may involve higher initial costs.​

It's essential to balance application thickness with the specific needs of the area being marked to ensure optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.​

4. Wear Rates

Often forgotten, but the traffic a line sees affects its wear greatly.

• High Traffic: Supermarkets, private roadways, shopping centres, airport parking etc.

• Low Traffic: Church and School parking, sports courts, less used car parks and areas where the usual wheel tracks don't run over the lines.

High traffic areas will need lines painted every couple of years, and low traffic sites may last a couple more. Even a site with very little traffic will need painting within 5 years as the sun, rain, grime and other elements take their toll on the coating.

Conclusion

So how long does line marking paint last? The lifespan of line marking paint is influenced by the surface it's applied to, the type of paint used, and the thickness of the application. By carefully considering these factors and ensuring proper surface preparation and application techniques, you can maximise the durability of your line markings, ensuring safety and clarity for years to come.