FEATURE
Factor in Layout Time If it’ s a fresh layout, not a restripe, budget extra hours for chalk-lining, snapping grids and double-checking spacing. This is the slow work that makes everything else go fast. Skimp here, and you’ ll pay for it later in crooked stalls and bad reviews.
Step 3: Prep Like a Maniac
Striping is 80 % prep and 20 % painting. If you skip the prep, that 20 % turns into a disaster.
• Blow the lot with a backpack blower or walk-behind sweeper.
• Tape off anything that shouldn’ t get painted. Islands, car stops, decorative brick— don’ t assume your freestyle skills are that good.
• Use a laser or chalk your lines to correct, even if it’ s a restripe. Nothing is worse than painting over the previous striper’ s crooked lines. There’ s a reason why they didn’ t call that contractor back.
Step 4: Stripe with Style( and Skill)
Now the fun part— the part that makes it all look effortless, if you’ ve done the homework.
• Spray straight. Take your time on the first few lines and use them to eyeball the rest. This is the time when one must decide if it’ s time for a laser, auto-layout and line driver.
• Double-pass when needed. ADA lines and high-traffic lanes sometimes need two coats. New layout should always get a 2-coat. Don’ t be lazy, go above and beyond. Make it your mantra: under-promise, over-deliver.
• Keep it clean. If you mess up a stripe, fix it. A rag and a little paint thinner go a long way. Don’ t leave wobbly lines, hoping no one notices. They always notice!
Step 5: Break it down
A clean break down is the cherry on top of a well-done job.
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• Barricade the area if the paint needs drying time. Use cones or caution tape.
• Walk the lot before leaving. Touch up where needed, grab trash and leave it
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