The next generation is redefining the narrative around green and sustainable products—it’s time to leave outdated perceptions behind.
Changing Perceptions in Pavement Maintenance
In the pavement maintenance world, environmentally friendly products have long struggled against the stigma of being less effective than their conventional alternatives. That skepticism wasn’t entirely unfounded.
In the early days of eco-conscious solutions, some hit the market before the technology had matured. These initial offerings often carried a higher price tag and left contractors questioning their performance compared to familiar materials. But things have evolved significantly.
Today’s sustainable pavement products are not only on par with traditional materials—they’re often superior. What makes these newer solutions more environmentally sound also contributes to better durability and performance under real-world conditions.
A New Era of Pavement Strategy
“Sustainability hasn’t disappeared—it’s just shifted in how it’s prioritized,” said John Evans, CEO of EverLine Coatings. “We need to revisit our approach to pavement care. It’s not a choice between being eco-friendly, maintaining high quality, or saving money. Today’s innovations can deliver on all fronts.”
EverLine operates across the U.S. and Canada, offering services through a franchise network that includes asphalt repair, striping, sealcoating, and infrared patching—primarily for commercial properties. Evans emphasizes that sustainability and safety are deeply interconnected.
“When you extend the lifespan of pavement, you’re naturally reducing environmental impact,” Evans explained. “Combine that with advanced products like MMA, and you’re getting longer-lasting results with fewer reapplications and less site disruption.”
The MMA Advantage
MMA, or methyl methacrylate, is a high-performance road marking system made of two components. It provides bright, long-lasting lines ideal for high-traffic zones and extreme weather. Its adoption has grown rapidly among striping contractors, thanks to its strengths in both safety and sustainability.
From the perspective of property managers, value is a top priority. But as Evans points out, many large corporations now have internal sustainability goals. Contractors offering eco-smart solutions can stand out, win more business, and tap into sustainability-focused budgets.
Environmental and Safety Benefits by the Numbers
MMA’s environmental profile is impressive: it contains just 10 grams per liter of volatile organic compounds (VOC), dramatically lower than water-based (approx. 150 g/L) or oil-based paints (up to 400 g/L). Plus, it significantly outlasts both.
While water-based paints may need to be reapplied every year, and oil-based options every 2–5 years, MMA’s durability often eliminates the need for frequent maintenance—cutting down on emissions, labor, and materials in the long run.
The safety factor goes beyond longevity. MMA markings remain highly visible, which is crucial for crosswalks, school zones, and parking lots. Add reflective glass beads, and the surface offers increased traction—even in wet conditions.
In contrast, thermoplastic markings can be a trip hazard, particularly for seniors, due to their thickness of up to 90mm. MMA, applied at just 15–25mm, significantly reduces that risk.
And for crews on the job, MMA offers a safer alternative to thermoplastics, which often require handling hot, heavy melters during installation.
Real-World Impact
“We visited the Port of Houston, where they were using water-based paint for their intersections,” Evans recalled. “They were re-striping every five to nine days. We applied MMA, and months later, it still hasn’t needed a touch-up.”
