Introduction
For all pavement marking materials, the pavement surface must be clean and dry to achieve proper bonding. Proper pavement surface preparation is absolutely critical to achieve good thermoplastic performance. A properly cleaned and dried surface is absolutely critical for maximum durability performance of nearly all markings — especially thermoplastic. A broom truck is often used to clean the pavement surface prior to striping as shown in Figure 2-8.
Figure 2-8. Typical brooming operation for surface cleaning prior to striping.
Special pavement heating devices are now available that are effective for removing pavement surface moisture and elevating the pavement surface temperature. These devices are especially effective on concrete surfaces.
Surface preparation must be performed in accordance with TxDOT Specification Item
If restriping over old markings, follow
or manufacturer recommendations for material compatibility. Most materials can be used as restripe over materials of the same type, except preformed tapes and ceramic buttons, which should always be removed prior to restriping.