Can Parking Lot Striping Companies Perform In Richmond’s Winter Weather?
Can Parking Lot Striping Companies Perform In Richmond’s Winter Weather?
Ask any professional parking lot line painter, and they’ll tell you that striping during the winter season is possible, but very challenging. Most parking lot striping companies experience their busy season during the spring and summer. Come winter, Richmond’s challenging conditions make parking lot striping nearly impossible. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Don’t Striping Companies Typically Work in the Winter?
Richmond parking lot striping poses unique challenges in winter. The biggest is cold temperatures.
Both air and ground temperatures can affect how parking lot line painter products cure and bond to asphalt. Manufacturer recommendations vary, but most water-based paints require air and ground temperatures above 50 degrees. Solvent-based paints can handle slightly cooler conditions, but they will even struggle in Richmond winters.
During winter, Richmond frequently dips below freezing. There’s also snow, rain, sleet, and other tough conditions that prevent striping companies in Richmond from delivering the results you deserve.
It’s also important to remember that ground and air temperatures can differ greatly. Sun exposure and asphalt’s ability to retain heat can create a difference of 20 degrees or more. Therefore, windows of ideal conditions are few and far between during the winter.
Does the Type of PaintCompanies Use Make a Difference?
Striping companies can use various paint formulas to complete a striping project. Water-based and solvent-based paints are the most commonly used due to their cost-efficiency.
More premium options are available, and some have more flexible application requirements. They can withstand harsher conditions, making them a better choice if you need parking lot striping during the winter months.
Can Contractors Perform Richmond Parking Lot Sealcoating on Milder Days?
Richmond parking lot striping requires warm, dry conditions, and there are plenty of warmer days during winter that could be more conducive to paint application. However, Richmond parking lot striping companies may still deem conditions unviable. Why? It all comes down to how long striping takes to cure.
Application is relatively quick, especially when you hire a parking lot line painter who uses top-notch equipment. The problem, however, is that parking lot striping can take up to 48 hours to cure. In winter, it often takes longer due to slower evaporation.
So, while daytime temperatures might be ideal, nighttime temperatures are unlikely to be as warm. Conditions must be stable throughout the curing process to ensure a tight, long-lasting bond. For that reason, striping companies keep a close eye on the forecast before performing any work.
If night temperatures dip into freezing territory, it’s a no-go. Attempting Richmond parking lot striping would only waste your time and money.
How Can Parking Lot Striping Companies Overcome Winter Challenges?
Striping companies in Richmond typically reserve winter service for emergencies. In such cases, they can employ various strategies to promote proper curing.
Beyond choosing the right paint formula and keeping a close watch on the weather forecast, the best striping companies in Richmond use specialty tools to overcome the many challenges the season presents. These include heaters, curing blankets, and enclosures to protect paint from the elements.
If you’re searching for pavement maintenance solutions this winter, turn to CVA Striping. Unlike other striping companies, we take time to assess your needs and determine the best approach to meeting them. We understand how vital striping is to your property’s safety and curb appeal, so we’ll work hard to deliver an outcome that counts. We’re available for parking lot striping, sealcoating, asphalt repairs, parking stops, signage, and more.
Let us show you why we’re among the best Richmond parking lot striping companies you can hire. Call CVA Striping today at (804) 432-3255, email cvastriping@gmail.com, or use our online form to request your free, no-obligation quote.

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