THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO LINEMARKING PAINT

When it comes to linemarking paint, you’ll need to get a little more specific. There are many different types of paints, including road marking paint and grass paint. The type you need will depend on what you’re trying to mark and how long you need it to last. In this guide, you’ll learn more about the various types of linemarking paint and how to use it. TYPES OF LINEMARKING PAINT Which type of paint do you need? While that depends on the purpose of the markings, you have plenty of options. Here are some of the more common types of paints for sports marking. Water Based Paints These paints are ideal for indoor use. They are usually used on PVC, rubber, or wood, with a nice, bold result. The lines painted with water based polyurethane line marking paint will show up well and they are long lasting with impressive adhesive qualities. This type of paint is also anti-slip, so it can protect those who are running over it, yet it doesn’t create a trip hazard. Chalk Paint These paints are designed for temporary use, particularly on grass or synthetic fields. The chalk paint won’t last for long, but it does create bright lines that are quite easy to see in the grass. These are removable with water, so you can’t expect them to last long. Acrylic Paint Acrylic linemarking paint is generally used outdoors. It dries rather rapidly and can last for a long time. This makes it a favourite for marking up car parks, warehouses, and factories, as well as schools. You can use it interior or exterior, but it works particularly well outside and will hold up to changing weather. Grass Paint Specialty paint for grass can be purchased, as well. This is usually latex-based, but may have other types of paint bases. Grass marking paint is designed to last for quite some time when applied to natural grass. It won’t easily wash off, though wear and tear will eventually get to it. You can reapply as necessary. Thermoplastic Road Marking Paint Roads require a special type of linemarking paint. It must have anti-skid properties and needs to last for a very long time. This type of paint needs to be melted in order to use it, which means the applicator is a special heater that keeps the mixture soft so you can apply it easily. It hardens rapidly, providing the smooth, sturdy surface that you expect to see on a road. This paint will hold up to the most extensive wear and tear, and it also is reflective in many cases. HOW TO USE LINEMARKING PAINT Just as there are many types of paint for marking fields, roads, and pitches, there are multiple ways to apply it. As you saw previously, road marking paint requires heat to stay flexible and to be applied to the road. However, most other paints don’t require much and can be painted onto the surface with minimal effort. You can use a paint roller, a paintbrush, or a special machine to help you apply the lines. A grass marking machine, for example, will help you distribute the paint evenly over the grass and ensures that you have nice straight lines. A roller will apply evenly, but it can be more difficult to manage the straight lines. TIPS FOR BETTER SPORTS FIELD MARKINGS If you want to provide the best possible look for the field markings you intend to lay down, you may need to adjust your techniques. It can be difficult to get those perfect looking lines, but when it comes to applying pitch marking paint, you really do need to get it perfect. Here are some tips for making that happen: Clear the Area The first thing you should do is eliminate any debris from the area. Even a stone or twig can cause the paint line to be off and it can ruin the look of the lines. You want to be sure that you are painting only on the surface of the sports field or pitch. There are rakes and similar items that you can use to ensure everything is removed from the area where the lines will be. Trim the Grass It’s important to cut the grass before you intend to paint. This way, the paint will last longer and you can also apply to shorter grass, which make it a little more obvious and easier to see. However, if you do this, you should be sure to rake and remove the grass trimmings. They can catch the paint and cause uneven lines. Measure Twice Never paint until you have measured everything at least twice. This is very important since you want those lines to be absolutely accurate. It’s essential that sports lines be perfect and it’s easy to mess up with one measurement. When you’ve double checked or even triple checked, you’ll find that you are in the perfect position to create those ideal lines. Grass paint may come up, but it’s difficult and much simpler to just do it properly the first time. Use Markers It’s essential that you put down some sort of marker when you are measuring. However, you may find that sticks or boards are the perfect way to help you move through the painting process. You can paint straighter lines when you have a guide in the way. As you measure, set up your markers. If you’re using a machine, the boards need to be firmly in place so you can run alongside them and leave a mark, without any type of shifting. If you’re managing the painting by hand, you’ll want to move along the markers to ensure the process is flawless. Get Some Help Don’t be afraid to ask for some help. It can be quite difficult to measure everything when you’re on your own. This is when it’s particularly useful to have second set of hands to help you plan and measure. Even stretching the tape measure will make more sense when you have someone holding the other end. Use a Machine A grass marking machine could end up helping you create those perfect lines. These machines come in a range of sizes and designs, but they are wheeled so you can move smoothly along the side of the pitch, ensuring the field has perfect markings all along. The dispenser is what changes in most of these machines, so you’ll need to choose one that works with the paint you intend to use. Practice Frequently No one is automatically able to make the perfect lines and you may find that your first lines are smooth, but not ideal. It takes time and practice to make this work, so start out with chalk paint and test out your lines. You’ll gradually improve until you feel confident of marking up any type of pitch, whether solid or grass. It’s important to practice so you can start working on the more permanent paints that will help you create those perfect sports pitches. With these tips, you should see yourself rapidly improving your skills. As a groundskeeper, you’ll need to refresh those lines from time to time and ensure the fields look great. From pitch marking paint to grass paint, you’ll have plenty of practice so you can improve your markings. USE THE RIGHT PAINT As mentioned above, you need the proper paint for the job. If you’re not sure which paint would be best for what you need to do, take the time to discuss your needs with a linemarking or grass paint supplier. They can help you decide on the right brand and consistency for your particular needs. However, you should have a good idea from the section above. WHERE TO FIND LINEMARKING PAINT You can purchase linemarking paint and grass paint anywhere you buy your groundskeeper or sports supplies. Most of these stores will have at least a few options. However, you may wish for a larger selection or you may want a grass marking machine. In this case, you’ll probably want to check with a more specialised store. In the UK, Sportsmark is your best chance at getting the paint that you want. Linemarking paint is readily available here and you can order online. It’s also helpful if you need applicators, as they provide a wide range of grass marking machines, paint rollers and other applicators. If you’re in need of linemarking paint and sports paint supplies, take a look at Sportsmark’s catalogue. You’re bound to find just what you want.

For more information on THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO LINEMARKING PAINT talk to Sportsmark Group Ltd