If you're thinking about getting into the asphalt maintenance business, investing in a parking lot line striper can open the door to a highly profitable service. Asphalt line striping is in constant demand. From shopping malls to roadways, clear and accurate striping ensures safety, organization, and traffic flow. Before you rush out and purchase a machine, though, it's critical to understand a few key points to make sure you get the right equipment for your needs.
Here are the top three things you need to know before buying a parking lot line striper — plus the biggest mistake you must avoid.
1. Match the Machine to the size of the Project
One of the biggest mistakes people make is buying a parking lot line striper that's too small for the jobs they plan to take on. It's tempting to purchase the least expensive model available, but a smaller machine isn't built for large-scale commercial projects.
For example, a Titan PowrLiner 850 is a fantastic option for small to medium-sized jobs, such as parking lots with 20 to 50 stalls. However, if you're aiming to stripe large parking areas with hundreds of stalls, you need a more robust model like the Titan PowrLiner 3500 or larger. These machines are designed for higher productivity, allowing you to complete bigger jobs faster and more efficiently.
PowrLiner 850 Line Striping Machine
Remember, time is money. Choosing the right size striper ensures you can maximize your profitability without overworking your equipment or yourself.
2. Ensure Compatibility with Your Paint Type
Not all parking lot line stripers are compatible with every type of paint. Another common pitfall is selecting a machine without checking the type of material it can handle.
Entry-level machines like the PowrLiner 850 are typically designed for water-based paints only. If you plan to use oil-based or solvent-based paints, you’ll need a more advanced model like the PowrLiner 3500 or higher. These larger models can handle both waterborne and solvent-based paints, giving you more flexibility depending on the job requirements.
PowrLiner PL3500 72V Striping Machine
Choosing the right machine ensures the longevity of your equipment and delivers a quality finish for your clients.
3. Choose a Striper with a Detachable Spray Gun for Stenciling
Pavement markings — like handicap spaces, directional arrows, or no-parking zones — require stencils. If you plan to offer these services, make sure your parking lot line striper has a detachable spray gun.
Why? Using a machine without a detachable gun to stencil means you'll be pushing your entire unit back and forth over each stencil. Not only is that inefficient, but it also increases the chance of making mistakes and wasting paint.
A detachable spray gun allows you to spray stencils easily and accurately by hand, saving time and delivering a more professional result. It's a small feature that makes a big difference when you’re out in the field.
Bonus Tips for Line Striping Success
While choosing the right parking lot line striper is critical, don't overlook the accessories that help you do the job right. Make sure you also invest in the proper spray tips for different applications. At Asphalt Kingdom, we offer a variety of striping tips that allow you to adjust the width and flow of your paint lines to suit any project.
Video: Parking Lot Striping Business: ESSENTIAL Tools You Need
Having the right tips can drastically improve your efficiency and the quality of your finished work.
The Biggest Mistake to Avoid
The biggest mistake people make when buying a parking lot line striper is not thinking about the bigger picture. They choose a machine based solely on price or rush into buying without considering the types of projects they'll take on.
Instead, take a step back. Think about:
- The average size of the lots you'll be striping.
- The types of paint you'll use.
- Whether you'll need to do stencil work.
Video: Three Things You Need To Know Before Buying a Parking Lot Striper
Choosing the right striper upfront saves you time, money, and frustration down the road — and sets you up for success.
Ready to Start Your Line Striping Business?
At Asphalt Kingdom, we're here to help you choose the perfect parking lot line striper for your needs. Whether you're just starting out or expanding your business, our experts can guide you toward the right equipment, accessories, and advice to help you succeed.
Visit AsphaltKingdom.com to explore our full selection of parking lot line stripers and accessories. Let's get you off to a winning start!
