Parking Lot Striping: How To Choose a Contractor

Choosing a Parking Lot Striping Contractor (Even If You’ve Never Hired One Before)

Whether you manage a retail center, apartment complex, church, or warehouse, keeping your property clearly marked with fresh parking lot striping isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about safety, compliance, and the impression your business makes the moment someone drives in. But if you’ve never hired a striping contractor before, the process can feel a little confusing.

This guide will walk you through what to look for, which questions to ask, and how to avoid common mistakes when choosing a parking lot striping contractor — whether you’re located in Seattle or managing a property anywhere else in the U.S.

1. Look for Local Experience & Regional Know-How

Contractors who understand local weather, surfaces, and codes can deliver longer-lasting and more compliant work. For instance, Seattle’s rainy climate requires quick-drying, moisture-resistant paint, while different cities have unique fire lane and ADA layout regulations. A contractor familiar with these details can save you headaches down the line.

Bonus tip: Look for a company that’s worked in your exact neighborhood or property type — whether that’s a dense lot in Capitol Hill or a wide-open layout in Kirkland or Redmond.

2. Ask What Paint & Materials They Use

Paint quality directly affects durability. A good contractor will tell you the brand of paint they use, whether it’s water-based or solvent-based, and how long it typically lasts in your climate. Ask if the paint is reflective (great for nighttime visibility), if it meets DOT or ADA standards, and whether they recommend sealcoating beforehand for better adhesion.

3. See Photos of Similar Work

Would you hire a tattoo artist without seeing their portfolio? Same rule applies here. Most reputable striping contractors will have photos of past jobs on hand — preferably on similar surfaces to yours. Pay attention to the clarity of the lines, paint brightness, and any ADA striping, fire lane details, or angled layouts you might need.

4. Get a Clear Estimate (and Timeline)

Your quote should go beyond a number. A quality contractor will explain what’s included — from the type of paint used, to the number of stalls, ADA upgrades, layout changes, or any custom work like directional arrows or EV markings. They’ll also walk you through the timeline, including when it can be done, how long the paint takes to cure, and whether they can work evenings or weekends to avoid disrupting your business.

5. Be Wary of the Rock-Bottom Bid

It’s tempting to go with the lowest price, especially if budgets are tight — but ultra-low bids often mean something is being skipped. That could mean:

• Low-grade paint that fades in 3 months
• No layout planning or site prep
• Improper curing time or rushed jobs

Paying a little more up front can mean a job that lasts 1–2 years, not 1–2 months. A poorly striped lot can also lead to traffic confusion, trip hazards, or even liability if it doesn’t meet accessibility requirements.

6. Verify Insurance and Licensing

Always ask for proof of insurance and local licensing. It’s not just about liability — it’s a sign the contractor takes their business (and your safety) seriously. Reputable companies will have no problem sharing documentation or offering references from past clients.

7. Ask Who They Work With

Great striping contractors tend to have ongoing relationships with local pavers, seal coaters, and property managers. If other tradespeople trust them, that’s a strong vote of confidence. They may also be able to help coordinate your striping job around larger paving or sealcoating projects.

Need Help Choosing the Right Parking Lot Striping Contractor?

If you’re located in the Seattle metro or Eastside, 1-800-STRIPER of Bellevue offers free estimates and layout consultations. We specialize in high-visibility, long-lasting parking lot striping using premium materials suited for the Pacific Northwest.

We’ve worked on everything from tight urban lots in Capitol Hill to large commercial shopping centers in Kirkland, and we’d love to help you too.

Looking to learn more? Read our full guide on Seattle’s striping needs by climate or dive into our article on parking lot striping in Everett, WA.