Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Doityourself Reflective Curb Painting

Paint colors and numbers can vary from area to area.


High visibility curb numbers are an eye-catching way for others to find your address. They can even save your life in the event of an emergency. Reflective numbers that are visible from the street at night help firefighters, police and ambulances find your home rather than trying to visualize faded address numbers or those hidden by landscaping. Many cities now even allow you to add personal touches, such as a favorite sports team.


Research Local Codes


Check with your neighborhood association or local governing body regarding the requirements for street numbering. Many areas require that the numbers be a certain height and color. Local codes may also specify exactly where the numbers must be painted on the curb. Some cities may offer advice and tips on their websites.


Gather Your Materials


Stop by your nearest hardware store to get your supplies together. You'll need reflective paint for the numbers, a dark or light color for the background, numbered stencils and masking tape. You might need a paint roller and tray, depending on the type of paint you purchase. The reflective paint for the numbers is best applied with a paint roller, as it allows you to more thoroughly cover the curb, but spray paint works if that's all you can find.


Clean the Surface


If possible, hose off the curb with a sprayer. If you don't have access to that, try washing as much dirt as you can off the concrete. This will help the paint adhere better.


Background


Paint the background for the numbers. The color and size of this will be determined by any ordinances or laws that you researched earlier. Use masking tape to mark off the area to give it nice, clean edges. Allow the paint to dry for at least 24 hours.


Numbers


Assemble the numbers from the stencils that correspond to the address you are painting. Affix these to the curb with masking tape to keep them in place while you're working. Carefully remove the stencils when finished.







Tags: reflective, curb, painting, masking tape, curb with, find your, paint numbers, paint roller, reflective paint, reflective paint numbers