What paint should I use for my warehouse line marking

One of the most common questions we get asked is:

Which line marking paint should you use for warehouse and factory floor line marking?

So, let’s delve into the realm of line marking paint. In this guide we will be looking specifically at the best paint options for warehouse line marking. If you’re looking for the best paint for car parks, make sure to check out our guide on car park line marking. 

The array of options available can be overwhelming – single part, two part, water-based, UV – the list seems endless. With countless products and manufacturers vying for attention, the decision-making process can be daunting. So, what’s the best approach?

Based on our extensive experience we’ve narrowed it down to just three products: single-part acrylic, water-based systems, and two-part epoxy. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Single-part acrylic

Starting from the bottom, we have single-part acrylic. Ideal for warehouse lines, walkways, and pallet loading areas, it’s cost-effective but solvent-based, emitting a strong odour. Proper ventilation and protective gear are essential during application, you’re going to need the doors open and will need to wear a respirator as well. Due to this, the best time to apply single-part line marking paint is out of hours.

If you’re opting for a single-part system, we would recommend something that’s a little bit thinner for easier application. We particularly like the Geveko 3S Poly Colour. Despite the odour, it delivers a quality finish at a lower cost compared to other line marking systems.

PROS:
– Cost effective
– Quality finish

CONS:
– Requires ventilation and PPE during application

Hybrid UV Line Marking system 

Moving up the ladder, we have water-based systems, enhanced with a UV sealer such as the RapidShield UV sealer. The UV sealer provides an anti-slip finish that lasts for years.

The curing time of a water based system is marginally longer than that of single-part acrylic. Each coat typically requires about 1 hour to cure, with two coats recommended for optimal results. It’s a personal favourite of ours due to its effectiveness, safety, and durability.

In theory you could use a solvent based product underneath the UV sealer, however we wouldn’t recommend this. You would have to ensure that any residual solvents had completely evaporated before applying the UV sealer as you don’t want to be running a UV machine over something that’s highly flammable!

PROS:
– Durable
– Anti-slip finish

CONS:
– The curing time is ever so slightly longer than single-part acrylic with 1 hour curing time per coat and 2 coats needed. However, this is still far quicker than two-part epoxy.

Two-part epoxy

Finally, we have two-part epoxy. We typically use KDR Resin. While it boasts durability and quality, the main drawback is the lengthy curing time – typically 18 to 24 hours per coat. This can be impractical for busy warehouses, requiring extended downtime and labour costs. Despite its effectiveness, its high cost and time-consuming application make it less favourable in certain scenarios.

PROS:
– Durable
– High quality

CONS:
– Lengthy curing time
– More expensive

Line Marking Specialists

Experience the best in the industry. If you want further advice on warehouse line marking or would like to speak to us about your project, get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable team today on 020 3369 2969