Drawing Lines
Measure striping, curbs, crack sealing, and any linear features.
Understanding Linear Measurements
Line measurements calculate length in linear feet. Common uses include:
- Parking stall striping
- Curb and gutter
- Crack sealing routes
- Property line edges
- Wheel stops or bumpers
- Handicap symbol spacing
How to Draw a Line
Activate the Line Tool
Click the line icon in the toolbar, or press L on your keyboard.
Click the Start Point
Click where the line begins. A marker appears at your starting position.
Click the End Point
Click where the line ends. The measurement auto-completes after the second point.
Done! Lines auto-complete after two points. The length appears in the Measurements Panel.
Common Use Cases
Parking Striping
Measure individual stripe lines or total striping runs.
- Stall lines (typically 18' each)
- Fire lane markings
- Handicap stall symbols
Curb & Gutter
Trace along curb edges for replacement or repair estimates.
- Standard curb runs
- Curb cuts and ramps
- Island perimeters
Crack Sealing
Trace visible cracks for sealing estimates.
- Linear cracks
- Joint sealing routes
- Expansion joint replacement
Edge Work
Measure along lot boundaries and transitions.
- Property line edges
- Pavement to gravel transitions
- Sawcut locations
Tips for Linear Measurements
Multiple Lines for Complex Routes
For a winding crack or curb, create multiple line measurements. The totals section will sum all linear measurements automatically.
Use Categories for Organization
Create categories like "Striping", "Curb", "Crack Seal" to keep different line types organized and see subtotals per type.
Zoom for Precision
At higher zoom levels, you can place endpoints precisely on visible features like stripe ends or curb corners.
Name Descriptively
Rename lines like "North Curb", "Row 1 Striping", or "Main Crack" so you know what each measurement represents.
Editing Lines
After creating a line, you can modify it:
- Move endpoints: Click to select, then drag the end markers
- Rename: Click the name in the Measurements Panel
- Change color: Click the color indicator next to the measurement
- Delete: Select and press Delete
Line Tool vs. Distance Tool
ProPaving has two ways to measure length. Here's when to use each:
Line Tool (L)
Creates a saved measurement that persists in your project.
Use for: Striping, curbs, cracks - anything you need in your final takeoff.
Distance Tool (R)
Quick measurement that doesn't save automatically.
Use for: Quick checks, spot measurements, planning. Can save as line if needed.