Once in a while we get a question concening a marking application that is not directly related to sports field marking yet may be solved by using field marking products.

Brian posted the following situation, "I am looking for a paint I can apply in a non-sports application. It is for an outdoor trail that is a combination of gravel and asphalt. The trail will
be used for 6 hours. After use, I would prefer something that will wash away over time via foot traffic and weather without having to wash it off.

Also, I'd like something I can apply with a paint roller or traditional paint sprayer. We will not be painting straight lines but rather patterns.

Any suggestions?"

Here's a couple options that we offered to Brian that may help solve his requirement.

You can purchase our aerosol chalk product to include a colored aerosol chalk that is a temporary application. With the T-tip nozzle you can free hand the chalk application. Each can will cover approximately 200 linear feet of striping. This product performs like typical dry chalk that is applied to sports fields. Once it dries, in less than 30 minutes, it can be removed by foot abrasion or water.

If you have access to a pump-up sprayer that is used for pesticide applications you can apply diluted Tru Mark Switchback Double Play bulk liquid chalk. This product comes in 5-gallon pails and is diluted one part water and one part liquid chalk (1:1). After mixing pour into your pump-up sprayer or battery operated backpack sprayer and you are ready to spray patterns on your trail.

Not as temporary but just as safe is diluted external flat latex house paint. As with bulk liquid chalk the paint can be applied with a pump-up sprayer. I would dilute the paint at least 1 gallon of paint to 1 gallon of water. You can achieve about 100 square feet per diluted gallons or about 300 linear feet.

Just ensure you mix the liquid chalk/paint well before mixing in water. I would use a paint paddle with a cordless or electric drill to ensure good mixing. We would be glad to sell you some field marking paint however you'll get about the same performance for external flat latex house paint (Tru Mark's SwitchBack Cheat Seats) for your non-sports surface.

Even in a diluted formulation you should have good success with a paint roller. The
paint will dissipate quicker due to weather and traffic when it is diluted.

I hope this helps.