Anyone who has done any renovation or painting of walls will know that getting a proper paint finish involves using tapes to mask certain areas to prevent unwanted paint splash or drip.
The term ‘masking’ is often confused by many who refers to it as masking tapes. Hence, you might realise that many people apply masking tape in their paint job. What they need is a painter tape.
If you are thinking of painting a fresh set of paint for your interior, be it in your office or home, understanding the suitable tape to use can make a huge difference in your final paint finish.
The similarity between masking and painter’s tape
Masking and painter’s tape at a glance looks identical as they are made from the same crepe paper backing. They serve the same purpose of masking, but this is when the difference comes in. It is easy to confuse a layperson who does not understand the difference between the two tapes.
Masking tape is made to stick – and remain stuck
The critical difference between the two tapes is the type of its adhesiveness. Masking tape has a more robust adhesive quality; hence it is highly recommended for patching a punctured vacuum bag, labelling, or marking laminate board, so it does not split when being cut.
The solid adhesive layer of masking tape ensures that whatever object and surface it is applied on remains stuck. That, unfortunately, is a characteristic not wanted during painting.
Painter’s tape can be removed easily and is designed to do so
Compared to masking tape, painter’s tape is not as strong in its adhesiveness. This means it is designed to stick well, but it is also easy to remove. No matter how long you leave it on, as soon as you easily remove it, it leaves behind no residue and a well-defined line that showcase a perfectly painted room.
While masking tape is generally similar, painter’s tape, on the other hand, has specific variations for indoor and outdoor applications. Outdoor applications have unique features such as UV resistance.
Masking tape is more prone to paint leak and drip
Despite its excellent adhesiveness, it is pretty common for masking tape not to form a perfect seal. This results in the paint leaking and dripping between the tape and the surface.
The strength of masking tapes does not play well with the paint job. If left for too long, the adhesive binds with the surface. This results in the possibility of the new coat of paint being ripped off in the process of removing the tape and a danger that it could damage the previous layer of the paint.
Certain painter’s tape contains anti-paint technology
It might seem strange to mention technology when discussing tape. Still, companies have developed tapes that optimise specific industries over the years. In this case, painter’s tapes have been designed to optimise better for anybody who requires them over the years.
Some painter’s tape have extra adhesive technology that forms a perfect seal along the edges, allowing painters to create sharper paint lines as the seal keeps the paint from dripping between the tape and the surface.
Conclusion
While it all boils down to how much each of these tapes cost at the end of the day, it is without a doubt that if you are aiming for quality paintwork, a painter’s tape might be a better option. Its adhesiveness is enough for what is required, and in fact, it is better for the job as it does not damage the paint job even if left there while waiting for the paint to dry. Suppose you are looking for quality industrial-grade masking or painter’s tape or double-sided tapes for your next home project. In that case, Heleflo Products Pte Ltd is the place to look.
Heleflo Products is an adhesive tape company in Singapore that deals locally and internationally. We provide high-quality tapes across multiple industries and organisations, from start-ups to SMEs and MNCs. For more information on procuring some of our eco-friendly tapes, contact us at marketing@heleflo.com.sg.