Parking lot striping looks straightforward — and in some ways it is. But the difference between a professional result that lasts 2–3 years and faded, peeling lines that look bad within months often comes down to the contractor's equipment, materials, and surface preparation. Here's how to evaluate your options.
1. Ask About Their Equipment
Professional striping contractors use airless spray machines — either self-propelled ride-on units or walk-behind machines with consistent pressure and line width control. Stencils should be purpose-made, not improvised. If a contractor is using a brush or roller for anything other than curb work, that's a red flag.
2. Ask What Paint They Use
For Ontario commercial lots, look for contractors using MTO-approved traffic paint — either water-based latex or alkyd-based paint rated for exterior pavement marking. Ask specifically whether the paint is certified for Ontario road marking applications. Discount latex house paint is not appropriate for parking lot use and will fade much faster.
3. Ask About Surface Preparation
Paint adhesion requires a clean, dry surface. A professional contractor will power-blow or power-sweep the lot before striping, not just rely on natural wind. If the quote doesn't mention surface preparation, ask explicitly. Painting over dirt and debris is one of the most common causes of premature line failure.
4. Ask for Proof of Insurance
Any contractor working on your commercial property should carry general liability insurance (minimum $2 million recommended) and WSIB coverage for their workers. Request certificates of insurance before work begins. This protects you from liability if an accident occurs on your property.
5. Ask About AODA Knowledge
If your lot includes accessible parking, confirm the contractor is current on Ontario's AODA and Ontario Building Code requirements for accessible stall dimensions, access aisle requirements, and ISA markings. Non-compliant accessible markings expose your organization to fines up to $100,000/day.
6. Compare Quotes Carefully
The lowest quote isn't always the best value. Compare what's included: Does the quote include surface preparation? Does it specify the number of coats? Does it include all required stencils and specialty markings? A quote that omits these items will likely require add-ons that close the price gap — or result in substandard work.
7. Red Flags to Watch For
- •No physical address or traceable business registration
- •Quotes provided without seeing the lot (photos only are acceptable for preliminary estimates, not final quotes)
- •Unwillingness to provide insurance certificates
- •No mention of paint specification or brand
- •Cash-only or no written contract
- •Pressure to book immediately with a deep discount
What to Look For in a Contract
A professional striping contractor should provide a written scope of work that includes: total linear footage or stall count to be painted, paint product and specification, surface preparation steps, expected cure time before the lot can be reopened, and a warranty on materials and workmanship. We provide all of this as standard with every quote.
