Warehouse Line Striping: Picking the Right Markings for Maximum Efficiency
Line striping is an essential part of maintaining a safe and functional warehouse. It provides clear, visible markings for traffic flow, storage designation, inventory management, and other critical areas. This aids in preventing accidents and improving overall organization.
For property and facility managers, choosing the right line striping materials can be a challenge. There are a variety of options available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this blog, we will explore the most common line-striping materials and help you determine which option is best for your specific needs.
Water-Born vs Oil-Based Paint
Water-born and oil-based paint are two of the most common materials used for line striping. Latex paint is a water-based paint that dries quickly and is easy to clean with soap and water. It is also more environmentally friendly than oil-based paint.
Oil-based paint, on the other hand, is a solvent-based paint that dries slower but has a longer life span. It is more durable than latex paint, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
In terms of longevity, oil-based paint can last up to 5 years, while water-born typically last 2-3 years. However, this lifespan can vary based on the specific conditions of the warehouse or through the use of some newer hybrid products on the market.
Epoxy vs Performance Striping Tape
Epoxy and performance striping tape are two other materials that can be used for line striping. Epoxy is a type of resin that is mixed with a hardener to create a durable coating that is popular for its strong adhesion and durability properties that adhere well to concrete and other surfaces. Before applying an epoxy-based material, there is an additional step, concrete preparation. It is important that the correct surface profile is achieved prior to putting the coating in place. This is achieved through the use of different heavy machinery, most commonly in this application, grinders or shot blasters. Performance striping tape, on the other hand, is a type of plastic tape that is cut to the desired length and then applied to the concrete. It is available in various colors and is often used for creating straight and accurate lines.
In terms of longevity, epoxy can last up to 10 years, while performance striping tape typically lasts 4-6 years, oftentimes less.
Polysiloxane Line Striping
This form of striping is similar to Epoxy in that it requires a more detailed level of preparation by way of heavy-duty shot blasting equipment to achieve a surface profile on the surface being coated. Each aspect of the application is similar to Epoxy. The most significant difference in the front end of striping projects utilizing Polysiloxane is price. Typically 15- 20% higher than that of an epoxy system. The most significant difference on the back end of a project is longevity and shrinking maintenance costs. Additionally, compared to epoxy, when the time does eventually come to refresh striping in your facility, it is less time-consuming, disruptive, and therefore more cost-effective.
Which Option is Best for High-Traffic Warehouses?
All of the aforementioned applications may suit different needs and budgets. It's important for the consumer to understand what they are getting and recognize that not all line striping applications were created equal.
At Major Painting our most sought application for longevity is accomplished through the application of Polysiloxane. There are a few reasons we use this product, namely durability. The other main reason is reapplication. While an epoxy product is going to have a long service life, it is not re-coatable when those many years have passed and it is time to freshen up your warehouse demarcation. We will come in and shot blast the lines as you designate, then we will apply this product in the exact color you need (Not every line is safety yellow). This product is not only more durable than epoxy to hold up to things like forklift traffic, but it also stands up to UV rays and all sorts of caustic chemicals.
Invest in Longevity
Choosing the right line striping materials for your warehouse is an important decision. Don't let poorly marked or worn-out lines compromise the safety and functionality of your warehouse. Invest in the right line striping materials today and ensure that your facility remains safe, organized, and functional for years to come.
