The complete guide to duct tape

Duct tape is one of the most versatile tools you can have around the house. But with so many varieties of tape available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your project. This duct tape guide will help you make the perfect selection for any repair job, craft project, or home décor idea.

What is duct tape?

Duct tape is a multipurpose adhesive product designed for sealing joints. It is flexible, durable and waterproof, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Duct tape is available in various widths, grades and colours. The grade of duct tape determines which applications it should be used for.

Duct tape is composed of three layers. The top layer is made from a plastic material called polythene. Polythene is resistant to moisture and erosion. The second layer is made of fabric. This layer gives duct tape strength while still allowing it to be torn by hand. The bottom layer is a coating of adhesive.

The many uses of duct tape

Duct tape is an incredibly versatile tool and it can be used for a variety of purposes. Its strong adhesive properties, even under stress, make it ideal for repairs and heavy-duty projects. You can use duct tape to seal joints, patch holes, pack boxes or for temporary fixes, such as holding up a loose hem or securing a loose screw. The moisture-resistant backing of duct tape makes it suitable for outdoor use.

Duct tape can also be used in arts and crafts projects, such as decorating notebooks and crafting wallets. Double-sided tape (with adhesive on both sides) is especially suited to arts and crafts use. Duct tape can be applied to plastic, glass, walls, metal, cardboard, stone and many other materials.

What are the limitations of duct tape?

Duct tape is versatile but not without limitations. Despite its name, it is not recommended for sealing air ducts. Temperature extremes (high and low) and long-term exposure to air pressure will reduce its adhesive properties. So will exposure to UV light.

Duct tape can have trouble sticking to rough surfaces and materials with low surface energy. Also, despite its resistance to moisture, it will not resist prolonged submersion in water.

Types of duct tape

Duct tape is available in many different varieties, each suited to different applications. The grade refers to how the tape is made: the type of polythene, fabric and adhesive.

• General purpose. The basic polythene and fabric duct tape.
• Industrial grade. The fabric and backing are stronger, and the adhesive coating is thicker.
• Professional grade. An upgrade of industrial grade tape, providing increased strength, adhesion and durability.
• Gaffer’s tape. Black, for minimal light reflection. Easily peeled away, leaves no residue.
• Packing tape. It has no fabric layer, allowing it to be easily cut or torn by hand. It is still strong enough to seal boxes.
• True duct tape. Permanent tape designed for the sealing of air ducts. Resistant to air and heat pressure.
• Cloth tape. Polythene and gauze fibre tape. Very strong and durable, it resists oil, water, heat and corrosion.

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