Having a well-marked parking lot is appealing to look it, but also ensures proper functionality and improves safety. Striping not only defines individual spaces, it sections off handicap parking, curbs, no-park or fire lanes for emergency services, crosswalks, loading zones, and more. Re-striping your parking lot and keeping those lines crisp and colors bright should be an annual step in your parking lot maintenance routine.
When it comes to parking spots specifically, did you know that parking spot size is important for both safety and traffic flow?
Size matters
The ideal width for a parking spot is nine feet. This allows enough room for drivers to open their doors without hitting the car next to them, and also gives plenty of space to maneuver in and out of the spot.
The length of a parking spot should be at least 16 feet long. This allows enough room for most vehicles to park without sticking out into the aisle.
Types of Striping
There are three main types of stripes that can be used to mark parking spots: single, double, and triple. Single stripes are typically used for handicap spots, while double and triple stripes are for regular parking spots. Double stripes are generally used in residential areas while triple stripes are more common in commercial areas.
The paint usually dries within an hour or two. However, it’s always a good idea to wait a few hours before parking in the lot to ensure that the paint is fully dry. The color of the paint is not important, as long as it is visible to drivers. In most cases, white paint is used because it is easy to see against a variety of backgrounds. However, other colors can be used if there is a specific need (for instance, yellow paint may be used to make stripes more visible at night).
The paint stripes for a parking lot are typically four inches wide. When measuring your parking lot, it’s important to take into account the dimensions of the spaces as well as the width of the stripes. You’ll also need to decide how many stripes you want to use for each space. In most cases, a single space will require two stripes – one on either side. However, if there is a lot of traffic in the area, you may want to use three stripes (one on each side and one down the middle). This will help to prevent accidents by making it easier for drivers to see where they should be driving.
Creating a safe and easy-to-navigate parking lot is important for any business or residential area. By taking into account parking spot size and the type of stripes used, you can create a parking lot that is both functional and safe!
Baughman Magic Seal Striping Services
Don’t let parking lot striping become a DIY project. Baughman Magic Seal offers premier striping services to all commercial, industrial, and municipal customers. Keep your customers happy and contact us today to schedule your next striping service.