Road tape is a temporary solution to road marking problems. Though road markings are commonly created with thermoplastic road paint, this isn’t always possible. This is where road tape comes in.
These have retro-reflective properties and will reflect lights from vehicles, similar to motorway signs when driving at night-time with headlights.
Road tape has a number of uses: for instance, creating temporary road markings while construction workers wait for paint to arrive, or helping to manage traffic in events.
Below, we discuss the different types of road markings, how to apply road tape and the various uses they have.
What Do Road Tape Markings Mean?
When used on roads, road tape must adhere to the marking criteria listed in The Highway Code. Just because it isn’t paint doesn’t mean it can be applied however the applicator wants; road tape still needs to be applied so drivers can instantly understand what it is communicating.
Road markings are broken up into several categories:
- Across the carriageway
- Along the carriageway
- Along the edge of the carriageway
- On the kerb or on the edge of the carriageway
For a full list of road marking meanings, consult The Highway Code.
Much like actual road markings, road tape comes in two colours: yellow and white. Other road tape colours must not be used as these do not fall within the road marking guidelines.
Road tape is incredibly versatile, however – it isn’t only applied on roads. This is thanks to its ability to be used on asphalt and concrete surfaces.
Uses For Road Tape
Road tape can be used for numerous purposes, including:
- Car parks
- Roadworks
- Building sites
- Airfields
- Temporary roads
- Cycleways
- Forklift loading bays
- Warehouses
- Pedestrian walkways
- Loading bays
- Harbours
So, road tape isn’t just used on ordinary roads – it can also be used to help warehouses, airports and building sites organise.
How to Apply Road Tape
Road tape is usually applied by hand, though tape applicators can be also be used. When applied by hand, you must wear protective gloves and clothing.
Road tape must be applied at a minimum of 10°C. If it is applied under this temperature then no adhesive residue will be applied, meaning the road tape will not adhere as well. Protection from heat is why protective gloves must be worn.
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