Three key factors should be considered when purchasing line-marking stencils. This article discusses those crucial elements that distinguish the best line-marking stencils from the inferior options.
Materials Used
The best line-marking stencils are made from LDPE (low-density polyethylene). This material is superior to the other options in several ways. First, it is very strong and can withstand the rigours of repeated use. This is unlike stencils that are made from cardboard, which gradually weakens before it breaks. Secondly, LDPE is flexible. This makes it easy for you to clean the stencil when overspray dries on it. For example, you can just bend the stencil so that the dry overspray peels off its surface. Thirdly, the material is non-absorbent. Consequently, any overspray on the stencils will remain on its surface. This is unlike cardboard that absorbs any overspray that reaches the stencil. That absorbed paint affects the integrity of the stencil since it will start weakening at the points that have absorbed the largest amount of paint. Stencil material is therefore an important selection factor to keep in mind.
Stencil Thickness
A rule of thumb that you should follow is that the best line-marking stencils are very thick. For instance, 10-mil thick stencils are inferior to those that are 30-mils thick. Thick line-marking stencils will be more stable on the ground. It is not easy for the wind to remove them from their positions as you are working. Thick stencils are also less susceptible to tearing. You should therefore opt for the thickest line-marking stencils that are available in your area.
Stencil Height
Consider the overall height that is indicated for the different line-marking stencils that are available. This height should be looked at in relation to the size of the lettering. For example, a stencil height of 16-inches may give you only two inches at the bottom and at the top of each letter if the size of the letters is described as 12-inches.
Another stencil that has three inches at its edges may be better than the one described as having two inches. This is because the wider edge gives you more room for error as you paint over the stencil. The overspray will go to the edge, instead of affecting the quality of the lines that you are painting. Select stencils whose letters have a width that is approximately half the height of the lettering. This will give the stenciled marks some balance on your parking lot or pavement.
Use the information above to compare the strengths or weaknesses of the various types of line-marking stencils on the market.
