Types of Tape (2024)

There are many different kinds of tape, but adhesive tape usually consists of a narrow strip of backing material coated with adhesive on one side.

• Most adhesive tapes used with home projects are pressure sensitive, as opposed to tapes with adhesion activated by heat or water.
• The most common types of tape include masking tape, flooring tape, duct tape, electrical tape, packing tape, painter’s tape and double sided or mounting tape.
• Other types of tape have specialized applications, such as surgical tape, hazard tape and gaffer’s tape. Cellophane or “invisible” tape, for instance, is an inexpensive, usually clear tape often used with paper products.

Tip: Some types of tape come in multiple colors, which comes in handy when working with electrical wires or other applications that benefit from color-coding or organization.

Follow these tips for applying tape to ensure the best adhesion and removing tape to avoid tearing the surface or leaving sticky residue.

Application

• Make sure the surfaces are clean and dry before applying tape.
• Try not to stretch the tape during application, as stretching may cause the tape to lift or break. Applying the tape in short sections can help prevent stretching.
• Putty knives are ideal for pressing the tape into place to seal the edges and eliminate gaps.
• Let painter’s tape set at least 30 minutes before painting.

Removal

• Removing tape too quickly may cause it to break or splinter, while removing it too slowly increases the likelihood of transferring adhesive from the tape to the surface underneath.
• The sooner you remove the tape after application, the less likely you are to have problems.
• Remove tape at a 45-degree angle. If it continues to stick, try a 90-degree angle.
• If removing painter’s tape, wait until the paint is dry according to the tape’s instructions.
• If the grip of the tape resists removal without tearing, try using a razor blade to detach the sticky surface.

Consider these products to make your taping and painting projects go more smoothly.

• Tape guns and dispensers usually feature a sharp row of serrated teeth to cut through tape, eliminating the need to cut the tape with scissors.
• Look for pre-taped drop cloths and plastic sheeting to simplify the placement of drop cloths before painting projects.
• Exposure to sunlight causes tape to bake onto the surface it is adhered to. When painting or working outside, look for painter’s tape that is resistant to sunlight and UV rays, which will make it easier to remove.