Check out how Cape Coral is using thermoplastics to save you money

Crews in Cape Coral are using thermoplastics instead of traditional paint for road markings, providing longer-lasting and more reflective surfaces for drivers. “Typically, 50 to 100 feet away from the intersection is where you'll find the thermoplastic,” said Bobby McGrath, crew coordinator for the City of Cape Coral’s paint crew. Thermoplastics are used for crosswalks, turn arrows and stop bars, and McGrath explained that drivers will notice the difference when approaching intersections. Installing thermoplastics starts with heating 50-pound bags of the material to 400 degrees. Once melted, the thermoplastic is applied to the road using an applicator. Glass beads are added to the surface of the thermoplastic to enhance its reflectivity. Finally, water is sprayed on top to cool the material quickly. “Only takes typically two to three minutes for it to harden,” McGrath said. This quick cooling process allows traffic to resume almost immediately, minimizing lane closures. “If you're in a rush to get traffic back on it, it'll cool it down faster,” McGrath said. The biggest advantage of thermoplastic is its durability. “Regular paint typically only lasts for about six months, especially in the form of heat,” McGrath said. “And with thermoplastic, which most of the intersections in Cape Coral are thermoplastic, they typically last five to seven years.” This extended lifespan reduces the need for frequent repairs, saving on labor and materials. “You will see where the thermoplastic is, because it stays a heck of a lot longer than the regular paint,” McGrath said. Thermoplastic also improves nighttime visibility for drivers. “Everything looks nice and bright, and the reflectivity of the thermo itself helps tremendously at nighttime for drivers,” McGrath said. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.