Waterproof tapes are economical, easy to use and a durable alternative to caulking, sealants, mastics and coatings. But their simplicity doesn’t insulate them from failures resulting from improper application.
Surface preparation is the key to maximizing the adhesive bond strength of waterproofing tapes. It can prevent common failures such as delamination, peeling & blistering.
Applying
Waterproof tapes create a seal that prevents the penetration of moisture into building materials. This can help to protect against mold, rot, and corrosion. Waterproof tapes are often used in conjunction with other waterproofing materials to ensure maximum durability.
When applying waterproof tape, it is important to follow the instructions for a strong bond. It is also critical to apply the tape evenly and smoothly. Wrinkles, creases, and bubbles can cause a weak spot that allows water to seep through. This can cause damage to the surface and lead to further problems.
Application temperatures should also be taken into consideration when applying tapes. High temperatures can cause the adhesive to become softer and less sticky, which can affect the strength of the bond. This can also lead to a loss of adhesion on the substrate. Low temperatures, on the other hand, can lead to insufficient wetting of the substrate by the adhesive, which can lead to a weaker bond.
Step-by-Step
Waterproofing tapes are a great alternative to caulking, sealants, and mastics for a variety of reasons. They’re economical, simple to use, and provide a strong barrier to moisture that helps protect surfaces and structures from corrosion and damage.
To apply waterproof tape, first cut the adhesive tape to the desired length, leaving a small overlap on either end for better coverage. Then, peel away the backing to expose the sticky surface. Press firmly over the surface, smoothing out any wrinkles or uneven areas to ensure full contact and an air-tight seal.
When working on rough or dirty surfaces, consider using a handheld pressure roller or platen pressure to apply the tape. A few psi of pressure is sufficient to achieve good surface contact. Be careful not to apply too much pressure as this may decrease the adhesive strength. Waterproof tapes can be used on a variety of indoor and outdoor projects, including patching leaks, insulating or wrapping pipe lagging, sealing curved walls, glazing bars, and protecting above ground metal against rusting.
Surface Preparation
Ensure the surfaces that are to be joined with tape are clean, dry & free of foreign material. It is recommended that a thin layer of adhesion promoter be used on both substrates prior to applying the tape.
Surface preparation is an important step in ensuring the integrity of the adhesive bond and many failures are caused by dirty or contaminated surfaces. Using a solvent such as an isopropyl alcohol solution (70% IPA, 30% water) to remove dust, dirt, fingerprints or smudges will greatly increase the adhesive strength of the tape. A degreaser or acetone may be required for heavy oils on the surface.
Porous & fibrous materials such as wood, concrete and particleboard must be sealed to provide a unified surface for the adhesive bond. Roughening the surface with a wire brush or sandpaper can help with this and also improve the mechanical adhesion.
How to Use
Waterproof tapes are easy to apply and require fewer tools than caulking, sealants, mastics or coating products. They also are more cost-effective and quicker to install. However, their simplicity does not shield them from failures that stem from poor application techniques.
To mitigate these problems, always clean surfaces before applying any type of tape. Dirt, lint, wet paint, plaster and other materials increase the probability of extra adhesion build-up and subsequent tape failure. Clean areas a minimum of two to four inches beyond the area to be repaired.
A bit of oil can help remove a layer of tape residue. Soak a sponge in cooking or cleaning oil and buff the surface that has a layer of tape residue. The oil softens the adhesive layer, allowing it to be removed more easily. If you don’t have any oil on hand, try rubbing alcohol. It works best on glass and metal surfaces, as it evaporates quickly and does not discolor surfaces.