1. Inspect the Surface
- Start by inspecting the surface for any imperfections such as cracks, oil stains, or uneven patches. Identifying these issues early on allows for targeted preparation, ensuring the best outcome.
2. Captured Shot Blasting
- For surfaces that require deep cleaning or roughening, captured shot blasting is highly effective. This technique uses small steel shots propelled at high speed to remove contaminants, old markings, and to texture the surface. The “captured” aspect means that dust and debris are contained and collected during the process, making it an environmentally friendly and clean option. This method is particularly useful for large concrete or asphalt surfaces where adhesion needs to be maximised.
3. Grinding
- Grinding is another essential technique used for surface preparation. It is particularly effective on uneven surfaces or where previous markings need to be removed. Grinding machines use abrasive discs to smooth out the surface, removing any existing paint or thermoplastic markings and ensuring a level surface. This is crucial for creating sharp and accurate lines.
4. Clean the Surface
- After shot blasting or grinding, it’s important to clean the surface thoroughly to remove any remaining dust or debris. This can be done using industrial vacuums or pressure washing, depending on the surface type and the extent of the residue.
5. Repair and Seal
- Any cracks, holes, or damaged areas should be repaired using appropriate fillers or sealants. Sealing the surface is particularly important in preventing moisture ingress, which can lead to future damage and affect the durability of the line markings.
6. Ensure Dryness
- The surface must be completely dry before proceeding. Moisture can compromise the adhesion of the paint, leading to uneven or quickly deteriorating markings. For outdoor areas, it’s best to choose a dry day for this process.
7. Prime the Surface (if necessary)
- On surfaces like polished concrete or previously painted areas, applying a primer may be necessary. This helps to create a strong bond between the surface and the new paint, ensuring the markings last longer, especially in high-traffic areas.
8. Plan the Layout
- Carefully measure and mark out the lines where the paint will be applied. This is crucial for ensuring the markings are straight, evenly spaced, and properly aligned.
9. Test a Small Area
- Before fully applying the line marking paint, it’s wise to test a small section. This ensures that the surface preparation has been successful and that the paint will adhere correctly.
10. Apply the Line Marking
- Finally, apply the line marking paint using the appropriate equipment, such as spray machines or rollers. The method used will depend on the specific requirements of the project and the surface type.
At CR Ltd, we utilise advanced surface preparation techniques like captured shot blasting and grinding to ensure the best possible foundation for line marking. As one of the country’s leading line marking companies, our attention to detail and commitment to quality means that every marking we apply is durable, precise, and visually impressive.
Proper preparation using these advanced techniques ensures that the line markings not only look good but also stand the test of time, even in high-traffic or harsh environmental conditions.