Most of the water-based paint placed for longline applications is applied by spraying the paint onto the surface using a striping truck. Paint adheres to the pavement surface through mechanical bonding within the pores of the pavement surface. Although paints are less sensitive to changes in temperature, moisture, or other environmental characteristics than thermoplastic materials, surface preparation is still important. To achieve proper bonding, the following conditions must exist:

Paints are often applied at a thickness ranging from 15–25 mils. As a rule of thumb, the optimal speed of a striping truck applying 15-mil markings is 10–12 mph. Paint thickness can influence drying time and therefore should be specified with discretion depending on the drying time needed. TxDOT Specification Item .4.4 contains more information on paint application rates. Application of a primer material is not necessary on any roadway surface, although a double application of paint is sometimes specified. Table 2-9 summarizes problems that have been encountered with the use of paint as a striping material and suggests solutions for these problems.