How Preformed Thermoplastic Can Extend Your Season

by Allan Heydorn
Created: October 18, 2012

Pavement marking doesn’t have to stop when the temperature drops

KM international infrared machine heating preformed thermoplastic
KM international infrared machine heating preformed thermoplastic
When considering adding preformed thermoplastic to their business and when selling it to customers contractors have to consider more than the up-front cost of the material. They need to take into...
When considering adding preformed thermoplastic to their business and when selling it to customers contractors have to consider more than the up-front cost of the material. They need to take into consideration other factors and talk about those factors with the client.
Two types of preformed thermoplastic are available: material that requires preheating of the pavement prior to installation and material that does not require pavement preheating.
Two types of preformed thermoplastic are available: material that requires preheating of the pavement prior to installation and material that does not require pavement preheating.
When properly melted reflective beads should be embedded 60% into the material.
When properly melted reflective beads should be embedded 60% into the material.
Contractors should use propane tanks no smaller than 40 pounds and should always have a backup tank on the jobsite.
Contractors should use propane tanks no smaller than 40 pounds and should always have a backup tank on the jobsite.
Always perform the chisel test to ensure proper bond.
Always perform the chisel test to ensure proper bond.

She says parking lot stripers can be hesitant about offering preformed thermoplastics because they’re afraid it will eat into their core repeat business. “But they need to realize they can use it for other opportunities, including applying preformed thermoplastic in times that would otherwise be slow for them,” Brooks says. “Preformed thermoplastic is not meant to be a replacement for all parking lot striping. It is intended for very specific purposes – legends, arrows, handicap symbols – and has very specific advantages. So if contractors can offer their clients a durable solution that saves their customers money over time – without fear of cutting into their own profits – it benefits both parties.”