A small piece of adhesive tape can solve a big problem- but only if the right tape is used for the job. Tape used for packaging may not be strong enough on metal, while a heavy duty industrial adhesive may be overkill for light work on paper or plastic.
crown tape can be considered for many bonding and fixing applications where a clean surface appearance is required. But, when looking past just tackiness, surface types, temperature, moisture, pressure and the intended life of the bond can be factors to consider to help get the most out of your adhesive tape application. Knowing what to look for can help save material, rework and provide a clean end result.
Where Adhesive Tape Excels-and whats the Limit?
Probably the biggest pros for using adhesive tape are the simple application, and often times good overall appearance. The lack of drilling, screwing or using liquid adhesives can make tape a great choice for keeping a clean surface appearance.
Adhesive tape also spreads the bonding pressure out over a larger area, making it ideal for attaching small labels, thin panels, signage, trim pieces, foam, or other light objects. Double-sided tape is also great for situations where the adhesive medium should not be seen or interfere with the look.
But there may be some cons to think about depending on the situation:
The surface condition can play a part on how well the adhesive will stick. Rough surfaces, dust, moisture and oily residues can all decrease bonding capability.
Temperature can weaken or stiffen some adhesives.
Rough surface should be bonded with something thicker to prevent the adhesive from balling up.
If the adhesive needs to be removed, it may leave residue behind. Depending on the adhesive type, surface and how long it was on the surface, removal can be difficult.
A tape used to attach an indoor plastic label could easily detach from an outside metal surface exposed to the weather.
Choose Crown Tape Based on the Application, Not How Sticky It Feels!
First and foremost, choose the adhesive based on what needs to be bonded. While a certain degree of initial tack is needed, the lasting bonding properties should be the main concern. The two surfaces being bonded should be considered as much as the adhesive material itself since many things like glass, painted metal, plastic, fabric, foam or cardboard can have different reactions with adhesive material. Certain plastics can be a challenge to adhere to so material compatibility should be kept in mind.
Another important consideration is the thickness of the adhesive. Thin adhesive tapes offer a low profile bond that’s good for most interior applications, while a thicker foam tape can fill uneven surfaces.
Something else to consider is how long of a bond is needed. Some adhesives are good for temporary or protective measures and other need more time to cure.
Simple Tests that can Help Avoid Bonding Fiascos
Preparation is generally the most important step in any adhesive bonding application. Testing out a small sample of tape on the target surface before a whole project can save time and money. Make sure to clean and completely dry the surface beforehand and avoid touching the surface with greasy fingers after the surface is cleaned. Apply the adhesive evenly, and press firmly to assure as much contact as possible between surface and adhesive.
For detailed information about products and adhesive material options that may be good for your application, www.crownadhesivetape.com can be used as a resource to research adhesive tapes.
Some important questions to ask yourself before finalizing a choice of adhesive include:
- Will it be used indoors or outdoors?
- Is the surface smooth, rough, curved or flexible?
- Will it endure high temperatures, moisture, vibration or movement?
- Will the tape have to be removed?
- How much weight or stress will it need to hold.
Avoid the temptation of using over-greedy adhesives. A super strong adhesive could also be harder to remove or ruin a delicate surface. Instead choose something stronger fitted to what the application really needs, rather than what it might need.
Little Details of Adhesive Tape Application Matters
Avoid stretching standard adhesive tape unless it states it can be stretched during the installation process. The stretching process can cause the edges to curl away when they should be holding on.
The temperature can play a role in how well adhesive tape bonds. Especially if a surface was very cold, wet or dirty, putting on more adhesive tape is unlikely to help the next time it is tried.
Storing unused rolls in a cool, dry place is ideal. Dirty edges or improper storage conditions can make rolling or unrolling harder and cause imperfections on a neat surface.
Important Points to Remember
- Adhesive material should be a good match for both surfaces being bonded.
- Make sure to clean and dry any bonding area before applying adhesive.
- Heat, moisture and movement should be considered.
- Test out new materials before applying.
- Choose the thickness based on what the application needs.
A Good Bond Starts With Good Selection
Even though adhesive tape seems simple, getting good results generally starts with finding what works best for the specific surface and then preparing accordingly. Surface material, temperature, thickness, bonding strength and removal considerations should all be looked at before putting adhesive tape on a surface. The best adhesive tape for the job is the one that is suited for the conditions it will be in. Taking a short amount of time to think about the surface and what it will be used for can help reduce lifting, material waste, and extra labor and help the end bond appear cleaner and more dependable.