At Aexcel, we manufacture traffic marking paint for use on roadways and in parking lots from Alaska to Florida and every area in-between. Our paint products are engineered for superior performance in demanding applications, ensuring the formation of visible and durable traffic markings. Our two traffic marking paint offerings are waterborne and solvent-based products. Both serve as effective roadway safety improvement materials when applied and dried properly. Below, we discuss some of the key surface and temperature considerations to keep in mind when using our solvent-based paints.
Surface Considerations for Solvent-Based Paint
Before starting a traffic marking painting project, it’s important to ensure the application surface is properly prepared for the application of paint. In addition to being clean and dry, there are other factors to keep in mind depending on whether it is a new or old surface. 
For New Road Surfaces
If you’re painting a newly constructed or repaved road or parking lot, allow the concrete surface to cure for at least 30 days before applying paint. Additionally, the surface of the road or parking lot should be mechanical stripped of any film or curing compounds. If the paint is applied to an under-cured or improperly cleaned road, the paint will not adhere sufficiently to the surface, resulting in less durable traffic markings.
For Old Road Surfaces and Repainting Projects
New paint can be applied over old painted markings and road surfaces provided the application surface is in good condition (i.e., does exhibit any chipping, delamination, or peeling). As old paint is more likely to loosen itself from the road surface, any new paint applied atop is also subject to this risk. This risk is further increased if the new paint is applied over fast dry alkyd/solvent-based paints as the application of the new paint can further weaken the structural integrity of the old paint.
Temperature Considerations for Solvent-Based Paint
The temperature of the solvent-based paint is another consideration to keep in mind when creating traffic markings as it can affect the viscosity and, consequently, the ease to which the marking material can be sprayed onto the application surface. Depending on the formulation, Solvent-based paints can be heated. Generally, a temperature of 100 F is sufficient. It’s best to check the product data sheet to confirm the maximum temperature to which it can be heated for application. Heating the paint to above the recommended temperature can lead to paint degradation, equipment damage, and increased safety risks.
Quality Solvent-Based Traffic Marking Paint at Aexcel Corp.
Solvent-based paint is an excellent traffic marking solution for roadway and parking lots in various demanding environments. However, it is essential to prep the road surface and paint properly before application to ensure the formation of durable markings.
If you want to learn more about solvent-based traffic marking paint and how to use it properly, Aexcel has got you covered. We have experience providing solvent-based paint for a diverse range of applications, enabling us to help customers find the right paint solution for their needs, regardless of location or environment. Contact our team with your questions today.