Many decorators are turning to masking tapes to ensure cleaner lines, reduce time spent cutting in, and minimise the need for touch-ups. However, not all masking tapes are created equal, and choosing the right one for the job can make a significant difference in the final result. Mathieu Nesme, Development Engineer at 3M, shares advice on selecting the right masking tape.
Start with the substrate
The key to choosing the right masking tape always begins with the substrate. Rougher surfaces require tapes with higher adhesion. On the other hand, smoother and recently painted surfaces require tapes with lower adhesion to prevent any damage when the tape is removed.
Leading manufacturers offer an extensive range of masking tapes to meet the varying demands of different surfaces. However, a critical point to note is that the colour of tapes can vary between brands. A green tape in one brand may not serve the same purpose as a green tape in another. Therefore, decorators must always check the packaging to ensure they use the correct tape for their needs.
For smoother and recently painted substrates, delicate and sensitive surface tapes are specifically designed for this purpose, offering just enough adhesion to create a clean edge without damaging the paint beneath. These tapes are safe for use on surfaces such as painted plasterboard, walls, wood floors, vinyl-coated wallpaper, veneers, and cabinets that have dried for as little as two hours.
For rough, porous and uneven areas, decorators should opt for purpose-designed rough surface tapes that can be used across various internal and external substrates, including unfinished hardwood, carpet, marble, slate, stone, cement and laminate. Rough surface tapes can also be used externally on brick and metal trims, for example, ensuring a clean finish even in outdoor conditions.
Quality of finish
A further factor to consider is the desired finish and complexity of the project. When working with highly contrasting colours, defined lines or particularly visible spaces, sharp line and precision tapes are ideal. Featuring specially treated thin washi paper material, they help achieve a super sharp paint line on smooth or slightly textured surfaces without bleeding.
Decorators will also benefit from having a multi surface, multi-purpose tape in their armoury, which has the flexibility to be used indoors and outdoors, and for projects and areas where absolute precision isn’t necessary.
The art of tape
Choosing the right tape, however, is only part of the equation; how the tape is applied and removed is equally important to achieving a flawless finish.
When taping, it is best to press firmly on the edges of the tape to prevent paint bleed. After painting, it’s best to remove the tape at a 45 to 90-degree angle, pulling in the direction of the tape to minimise the risk of lifting the paint or damaging the surface underneath. A slow and steady removal process is also advised to avoid pulling off any underlying materials like plaster.
By choosing the right tape for the job – and using it correctly – masking tapes can help professionals further elevate their finish and do it with ease and speed.