Parking Lot Paint Calculator
Choosing the right traffic paint
When choosing the right traffic paint for your parking lot, or for roadways, it is important to weigh out the benefits for each type of paint. Comparing the benefits versus factors such as time of year you will be painting, environmental considerations, affordability will allow you to make the right choice for your project. Let’s take a look at the types of traffic paint, and break down the benefits, and drawbacks for both solvent, and waterborne traffic paint.
Solvent Traffic Paint
Solvent-based traffic paint is made from a mixture of resins and solvents that provide a durable, long-lasting finish. It dries quickly and is resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for heavy-duty road markings. However, solvent-based paint has several drawbacks, including high costs and environmental concerns. The solvents used in these paints are volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which contribute to air pollution and can have negative health effects. The production of solvent-based paint also requires the use of high energy and releases significant amounts of greenhouse gases, contributing to environmental degradation.
The application temperature also plays a significant role in the performance of both waterborne and solvent-based traffic paint. Solvent-based paint is typically more forgiving when it comes to temperature, as the solvents used in the paint help it to dry quickly even in cooler temperatures.
In terms of durability, solvent-based paint is known for its long-lasting finish. The solvents in the paint help it to dry quickly and form a tough, protective coating that can withstand the wear and tear of heavy traffic. However, the high VOC content in solvent-based paint can lead to fading and cracking over time, reducing its overall durability.
Waterborne Traffic Paint
In terms of durability, waterborne traffic paint provides a strong, long-lasting finish that is resistant to fading and cracking. The water-based resins used in the paint allow for the formation of a tough protective coating that can withstand heavy traffic.
When it comes to dry times, waterborne traffic paint does come in fast dry formulations, but still dries a bit slower than solvent based paint. It varies from product to product , but generally it is about 3 minutes to dry to the touch, and 10 minutes to safely drive over.
In terms of cost, waterborne traffic paint is significantly cheaper than solvent-based paint. This is because water is a much less expensive solvent than the volatile organic compounds used in solvent-based paint. Furthermore, waterborne paint has a longer shelf life and can be stored for longer periods without losing its quality, which reduces the cost of production and distribution.
Over the past decade, waterborne paint has gained popularity because of its environmentally friendly composition. More and more provinces, and counties are becoming environmentally conscious, and opting for waterborne to do their part, while reducing costs.
Another reason line striping companies like waterborne is it is very easy to clean. Machines can be flushed with water, and any paint spots on the line painting machine can also be cleaned without the use of harsh chemicals.
Conclusions
In conclusion, both waterborne and solvent-based traffic paint have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice will depend on the specific requirements of a project. Solvent-based paint can be more forgiving, with faster dry times, and with the ability to apply in colder temperatures. It’s chemical content and environmental impact make it a less appealing option.
Waterborne traffic paint, on the other hand, is a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective choice, but its application temperature and drying time can be more challenging to manage.
Ultimately, both products provide a long durable finish. Waterborne traffic paint is a smart choice for those looking to save money and minimize their impact on the environment. Solvent paint is better for application in fall temperatures, and for those who need fast dry times.
Traffic Paint Comparison Table
| Property | Solvent Traffic Paint | Waterborne Traffic Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Environmentally Friendly | ✔ | |
| Faster Dry Times | ✔ | |
| Better Longevity | Draw | Draw |
| Cost | ✔ | |
| Easier to Clean | ✔ | |
| Application Temp | Above 0 degrees Celsius | Above 10 degrees Celsius |