Why Thermoplastic Road Markings Are a Smarter Choice for Long-Term Safety
When it comes to road safety and infrastructure planning, materials matter just as much as design. One of the most durable and reliable options for modern traffic control is thermoplastic road markings—a solution that’s quickly becoming the standard across Canadian cities, highways, and commercial properties.
So, what makes thermoplastic different from traditional paint? The answer lies in both performance and longevity. Thermoplastic is a heated plastic-based material that is applied directly to road surfaces. Once cooled, it hardens into a thick, reflective coating designed to withstand heavy traffic, extreme weather, and frequent wear from snowplows and de-icing chemicals.
In a country like Canada, where roads face everything from freezing winters to hot summers, investing in high-performance markings is essential. Thermoplastic lines last significantly longer than standard paint—often up to 5 years or more—meaning fewer touch-ups, lower maintenance costs, and safer roads throughout the year.
Beyond durability, thermoplastic road markings offer excellent visibility at night and during rain, thanks to embedded glass beads that reflect light. Whether it’s pedestrian crosswalks, stop bars, directional arrows, or bike lane indicators, these markings remain visible and effective when drivers need them most.
Another key advantage is their fast drying time. Unlike painted lines that can take hours to set, thermoplastic cools and hardens in just minutes, minimizing road closure times and keeping traffic flowing.
At Gentem, we understand how critical well-applied, high-quality markings are to any infrastructure project. That’s why we offer industry-leading expertise in thermoplastic road markings, tailored to meet Canadian standards and withstand local environmental conditions.
If you're planning a road improvement project, commercial lot, or municipal development, investing in the right marking solution today will lead to fewer maintenance issues—and safer driving—for years to come.
For more information visit -www. gentem.ca/