How to choose the right masking tape
Multiple factors should be considered when selecting the most suitable masking tape for a particular application. Making the right choice is therefore not as simple as it would seem. One must take into consideration:
- Surface: what is the tape being applied to
- Agent: what is the tape coming in contact with; paints, primers, lacquers, varnishes, sealants, solvents, chemicals
- Exposure to: UV, moisture, temperature
- Duration: how long tape will be applied for
- Holding power: light-medium-high
- Critical need: clean removal, sharp paint line
This guide is designed to make this process easier.
You can download a copy of this guide in PDF format.
Masking tape features and benefits
Masking tapes consist of a number of different components, with the most notable key elements being: masking crepe type and adhesive coating. The combination of which can have dramatic performance results. Choosing the right product composition will ensure optimum performance for your application, saving you money and rework. There are masking tapes specifically designed for both indoor and outdoor uses. Each is application specific to ensure perfect result each time.
Types of adhesives used to coat masking tapes
Hotmelt adhesive: is the most economical adhesive to coat masking tape. Although it offers the lowest price point the high tack nature of the adhesive does not lend itself to clean removal or ability to stick to wide variety of surfaces at low temperatures. Mainly used for low cost applications like arts and crafts, hobby work.
Acrylic adhesive: The go to adhesive used to coat outdoor masking tape. It offers excellent UV, ageing resistance and high temperature exposure. Mainly used for long life painters outdoor masking tapes like our Kwikmask 635, Hystik 835 and Kwikmask 120 tapes.
Natural rubber adhesive: Widely and most commonly used adhesive to coat masking tape. It facilitates clean removability over an extended period of time (1-5 days). Has moderate temperature resistance and ideal for LSE (low surface energy) substrates. This adhesive is used on our everyday masking tapes and our automotive masking tapes.
Silicone adhesive: Widely and most commonly used adhesive to coat masking tapes exposed to very high temperatures up to 260°C. This type of adhesive is only found on very unique backings for the critical applications its been designed for such as our Kwikmask 180 and Stylus DW407 . Ideal for sticking to silicone.
Tips & tricks for optimal performance
Mask like a pro!
Helpful tips and tricks to guarantee the perfect job.
How to apply masking tape
- Clean and dry the surface first: Even our stickiest masking tape won’t stick to a dirty or damp surface. Extra time spent prepping the surface prior to application will ensure a better outcome.
- Applying the tape: Apply adequate downward/firm pressure across the entire width & length of tape (wipe down blade/credit card etc). This will not only guarantee your masking tape sticks to the surface applied to but also ensures edges create a tight seal, otherwise you risk it lifting, paint bleed under the tape & uneven/messy edges.
How to remove masking tape
- Timing: Never remove from wet paint. Allow sufficient time for the paint to be slightly dried (dry to touch is easiest method) to determine this or check the paint manufacturers instructions.
- Score the edge of the tape: Very lightly and gently run a razor blade or other sharp object (without cutting surface underneath) along the edges as this will ensure the tape separates cleanly from the cured paint preventing both paint being pulled up and cracking along the paint line (especially if the tape has been left on for an extended period). This also reduces risk of the masking tape ripping during removal process.
- Removing the tape: Doing it slowly is the key so be patient. Ideally you want to pull the tape up at a minimum 45 ̊ angle to prevent any residue being left behind. If this occurs increase the removal angle to 90 ̊ degrees.
Following these 3 simple steps will ensure you end up with a professional looking job.
Masking tape selection guide table
Click on the image to expand
The full range of tapes in the table above, is available to view in our Masking Tapes range. If you have any questions on the guide or would like to purchase one of these tapes, get in contact with us.
You can download a copy of this guide in PDF format.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is given in good faith for guidance on Stylus range and not specification purposes. This should not be used to compare with other similar products in the marketplace. The purchaser is solely responsible for determining suitability of these products for their application taking into consideration all the various factors influencing overall performance.
