In a word: skill. The white “paint” is a mixture of thermoplastic resin, titanium dioxide pigment, and tiny reflective glass beads. On major roads, it is applied by special markers that apply the paint under computer control. But there is still the task of driving precisely along the marked lines and at the right speed, given the road conditions – and this requires an experienced (and well-paid) “pilot”.
On smaller roads the job is more difficult and the paint has to be applied using a “paint cart” – a simple metal cart with heating to keep the paint flowing. Now the trick is to follow the lines precisely and paint at the right speed to get the lines the right thickness and width, and control the flow of paint to achieve the right pattern.
Geoff Ridd, managing director of Taunton-based RT Roadmarkings, believes only one in a thousand people will be able to master the technology.
Post time: Jul-11-2025