What Is Road Marking?
Road marking is the application of materials to the road to provide an identifying feature for motorists. While these materials might be plastic or paint, they can also be bricks or sand.
The main reason for this is to aid in navigation. The above materials use contrast, color, and texture. It helps the driver recognize the edge of the road during lighting or weather conditions.
Road marking is a critical aspect of your city and transportation system. There are many types of road marking, such as reflectorization, active LED road marking, and animated road marking. Each offers its benefits to both drivers and cities.
Read on to learn more about road marking and its processes.
Table of Contents
Brief History of Pavement Marking
In the United States, pavement marking dates back to 1885 when yellow lines were first used to mark the center of country roads. In 1910, they used the first white line to mark the shoulder of a road.
Over the next few decades, the development of line colors and patterns arises to help control traffic and improve highway safety. Today, they are using a variety of materials and methods to create pavement markings that are durable and effective in a variety of weather and traffic conditions.
What is the Main Purpose of Road Marking?
The main purpose of road surface marking is to provide guidance and warnings to drivers. They can be used to indicate the edge of the road, warn of hazards ahead, and give instructions on what to do when approaching an intersection. They also use road markings to designate parking spots and handicapped-accessible areas.
Road Marking Necessary Materials
There are a few materials necessary for marking a road surface, the most important being paint. Paint can be either water-based or solvent-based, and there are a variety of brands available. It is important to choose a high-quality paint that will withstand the elements and traffic.
Other materials that may be necessary include tape, reflective beads, and thermoplastic. These materials all work together to create a safe and visible road marking.
Thermoplastic is a material that’s possible to melt and then hardened again. This makes it ideal for road markings because it can be easily applied to the pavement and then quickly dries to create a durable, long-lasting finish.
Different Types of Road Marking
Guidance markings are for defining the route to be followed and are usually white. Regulatory markings are for controlling traffic and are usually yellow. Warning markings’ purpose is to alert drivers to potential hazards and are usually yellow or orange.
Markings for special purposes are used for things like crosswalks, stop signs and handicap parking spaces. Each type of road marking has a different purpose, so it’s important to know what each one means.
Be Safe on the Road
Road marking is one of the most important tools that a driver has to help them stay safe on the roads. They are used to warn drivers of potential hazards, to help them know where they can and cannot go, and to help them stay in their lane. Road markings are also used to help police and other emergency responders find their way to an accident or incident.
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