Businesses across the Midlands rely on clear, compliant line markings to keep operations running smoothly, whether in busy car parks, industrial yards, or internal warehouse environments. However, not all markings are fit for purpose. At Gilvar Lining Ltd, we’ve been conducting line marking audits in Nottingham, compliance checks across Stoke-on-Trent, and road marking inspections in Leicester for over 35 years. During this time, we’ve identified several recurring issues that compromise safety, clarity, and legal compliance.
Below, we’ll explore the five most common mistakes we encounter on Midlands commercial sites — and more importantly, how to avoid them.
1. Using the Wrong Materials for the Environment
Why It Happens
One of the biggest mistakes is applying line marking materials that are not suitable for the site’s surface type or level of usage. For example, solvent-based paints are still found on high-traffic car parks where thermoplastics or MMA (methyl methacrylate) would provide far superior durability.
Risks
- Premature fading or wear
- Safety hazards due to low visibility
- Increased maintenance costs
What to Do
Opt for materials like:
- Thermoplastic: Ideal for roads and outdoor areas
- MMA: Resistant to heavy use and chemicals
- Epoxy: Best for indoor floors or low-traffic zones
A professional line marking audit in Nottingham can determine the right material for your surface, climate, and traffic conditions.
2. Ignoring Legal and Safety Compliance Standards
Why It Happens
Often, markings are applied without reference to the latest UK compliance standards, including BS EN 1436:2007+A1:2008 and Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual.
Risks
- Fines or insurance claim rejections
- Unsafe traffic flow
- Inadequate visibility for vehicles and pedestrians
What to Do
Book compliance checks in Stoke-on-Trent with certified professionals. At Gilvar Lining, all our operatives are CSCS-certified and trained to NVQ Level 2 or higher, ensuring markings meet current safety regulations.
3. Poor Site Preparation
Why It Happens
Markings are sometimes applied to dirty, wet, or crumbling surfaces, often due to rushed timelines or inexperienced contractors.
Risks
- Poor adhesion
- Rapid deterioration of markings
- Increased need for reapplication
What to Do
Proper surface preparation is essential. This includes:
- Dry, debris-free surfaces
- Use of primers or etching if necessary
- Allowing appropriate curing times for coatings
We use hydro-blasting and dust-controlled abrasion as part of our surface prep process across all Midlands locations, including during road marking inspections in Leicester.
4. Inaccurate Layouts or Inconsistent Line Spacing
Why It Happens
Without accurate planning or scaled drawings, line spacing can be inconsistent or non-compliant, especially in car parks, warehouses, and school grounds.
Risks
- Inefficient use of space
- Legal disputes over accessibility bays or fire lanes
- Unsafe manoeuvring areas
What to Do
Work with a line marking specialist who can provide:
- CAD layout planning
- On-site measurement and stencilling
- Markings that comply with DfT and local council guidance
Our team has delivered correct layouts across complex sites, including Festival Retail Park in Stoke-on-Trent and Nottingham College’s multi-use sports courts.
5. Failure to Schedule Routine Inspections or Maintenance
Why It Happens
Line markings are often treated as ‘set and forget’, with no formal process in place to monitor wear or compliance status.
Risks
- Safety risks from faded pedestrian crossings or directional arrows
- Outdated markings creating confusion or liability
- Emergency exit routes not clearly defined
What to Do
- Schedule routine line marking audits in Nottingham or across your Midlands site
- Replace faded markings before they cause issues
- Keep digital records of materials, installation dates, and contractor certifications
Local Example: Solving Compliance Issues in Leicester
A recent road marking inspection in Leicester identified outdated stop lines and illegible bay markings at a logistics site. We removed the failed lines using hydro-blasting, applied high-reflectivity thermoplastic markings, and issued a compliance certificate for the client’s insurance file — all completed out of hours to minimise disruption.
Trust Gilvar Lining Ltd to Get It Right First Time
Since 1987, we’ve supported commercial and public-sector clients across the Midlands with accurate, compliant, and durable line markings. With over 400 years of combined team experience, our professionals carry out every project to the highest standards using certified materials and industry-approved methods.
Why businesses across Nottingham, Leicester, Coventry, and Stoke-on-Trent choose us:
- CSCS-certified crews
- Adherence to BS EN and Chapter 8 standards
- Local teams familiar with site access, weather conditions, and council expectations
- Rapid response for urgent or time-sensitive projects
- Full documentation provided for audits or insurance purposes
Ready to Book Your Site Assessment?
Avoid costly mistakes and ensure your markings are safe, visible, and compliant. Whether you need a line marking audit in Nottingham, compliance checks in Stoke-on-Trent, or a road marking inspection in Leicester, Gilvar Lining Ltd is ready to help.
📞 Call us today or request a free quote online to schedule your assessment.
