Whether you work as a professional line striper or want to maintain your business’s parking lot, line striping perfectly is a skill that takes plenty of trial and error. These tips for making straight striping lines every time will help you create the perfect-looking parking lot in no time.
Prep Your Parking Lot
Even if you paint it perfectly, your parking lot will show signs of damage in a short time if you do not properly prepare it before painting. This is why it’s so important to clean the area first.
Use a broom to sweep away any dirt or debris. A wire brush attachment for your broom handle can help clear away any stubborn residue. If there is any mold or mildew in the painting area, kill it before painting. Otherwise, it will damage the lines.
Avoid pressure washing the parking lot if possible. The lot can take days to dry, slowing your progress substantially.
Line Up Your Machine
An important step for making straight striping lines every time is to place the tip guard just to the side of the chalk line. Rather than trying to cover over the middle of the chalk line, run the machine to the side of it to get the straightest possible lines. When moving, keep yourself parallel to the line. Otherwise, your lines could end up wobbly.
Don’t Rush
When operating your paint striper, move at a steady, even pace. There is no need to get a running start or rush the first few feet to get the machine up to speed. Simply start taking even, consistent strides. The machine will get up to speed within a few paces.
If you’re in the market for a line marking machine, choose one that will create even, solid lines every time. At Trusco Manufacturing Company, we are proud to provide top-of-the-line paint stripers to our customers.