Removing pavement markings is part of every professional asphalt contractor’s job description. Traffic flows may need to be altered, parking lots may have to be reconfigured or parking spaces may need to be removed from “reserved” status. There are many methods that the contractor might use to remove pavement markings, based on budget, scope and other factors. The three most commonly used techniques are sand blasting, scarifying and water blasting.

Is It Possible To Remove Pavement Markings – How It Works

• Sand Blasting: You may already be familiar with the term “sand blasting.” The basic technique has been used for decades to remove paint from metal surfaces. For removing pavement markings, finely grained sand is delivered under high air pressure through a nozzle that is directed at the markings. The sand strips away the markings with relative ease. This method is one of the most economical and effective options for removing pavement markings. However, it can create quite a mess that must be cleaned up, and sand blasting can leave marks on the asphalt although they tend to disappear with time.

• Scarifying: For many years, scarifying was the method preferred by many transportation agencies for removing lines on roadways. Scarifying is a technique in which a machine follows the line to be removed. The machine has a rotary cutter wheel that removes the marking and a very thin layer of asphalt. Therefore, this method leaves behind visible signs that the pavement was once marked in that location. Although the process is cost-effective, it is not the best solution for environments in which appearance is of primary importance.

• Water Blasting: Water blasting is similar to sand blasting, but substitutes water for sand. A nozzle delivers very fine jets of water at pressures of at least 40,000 psi. These jets of water are extremely effective at peeling away pavement markings while leaving the asphalt undamaged although some minor marks can sometimes be left on the pavement temporarily. Of the three methods discussed here, water blasting is typically the most expensive, but it also is the least damaging to the pavement.

In addition to these three methods, there are other techniques that can be used to remove pavement markings. At Asphalt Pavement Solutions, we know that each job is different, and each client has different needs. Our team members are experts at determining which removal method is most suitable for the job. We have more than 35 years of industry experience, offering parking lot striping, asphalt sealcoating, asphalt paving, crack repair and more to clients throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. To learn more, call us at (856) 461-7710, (856) 544-3990 or toll-free at (800) 559-SEAL. If you prefer, you can use our online form to request a free quote.