This article will explain the main differences between gaffer and duct tape, their pros and cons, and their ideal applications to simplify your decision. Dispenser The bottom line is that both gaffer and duct tape offer strong, reliable adhesive properties and can be used for a range of tasks. Its initial design was simple but effective: a strong fabric bonded to polyethylene film for sealing/waterproofing, silver-gray coloring to match metal ductwork, and a thick coating of adhesive to seal the joints and make them airtight. Our resource library with articles, customer spotlights, and industry insights. One of the most impressive, and famous uses of duct tape was in 1970 by NASA astronauts. Both gaffer tapes and duct tapes are types of pressure-sensitive CL-W6033 Matt Black Gaffers Tape is perfect for things like trade shows when you need to remove tape from the convention center floor or in the entertainment industry for marking positions on a stage. Why do drummers put (duct) tape on their drums? Two of the most popular tapes on the market are duct tape and gaffer tape since they both offer a durable hold with weather-resistant properties. Gaffer's tape is ideal for use in schools, restaurants, offices, clinics, and anywhere else where the floor needs to be marked off to comply with public health guidelines around physical distancing. Update Privacy Preferences The answer to those questions is pretty simple: the tapes are made from different materials, meaning that they have different properties. However, duct tape is only resistant to heat to a certain degree. Unlike duct tape, gaffers tape is made from fabric instead of vinyl or plastic. How long does it take painted kitchen cabinets to cure? Some people attempt to use gaffer tape on the skin to attempt slight body modifications, as decoration, or to hold clothes in place but then wonder if gaffer tape is safe on skin? ECHOtape's CL-W6033 is a matte black gaffer's tape. Not only is duct tape reside exceptionally difficult to clean off, but duct tape adheres so well that it can pull paint off of walls and other surfaces. Accordingly, here are the best options for both adhesive tapes that will give you value for your money. On the other hand, gaffer tapes leave less residue and offer a temporary seal. Tape to Choose Because of the non-reflective and residue-free removal, gaffers tape is often used in theaters, the arts, and other settings where the tape needs to both be inconspicuous and nondamaging. Although the invention is widely credited to Johnson & Johnson, which at the time specialized in the development and manufacture of medical supplies, it's actually a military mom from Illinois who came up with the idea behind duct tape. There are many brands that make duct tape, including Gorilla, 3M, Duck, Gaffer, and Scotch. In contrast, gaffers tape cost about $19.99 for the same amount. Cloth tape is made of adhesive material that is coated with a woven fabric. Whenever cables need to be taped on a stage or set, crews will say that they need to be gaffed or gaffered down. 6 Best Duct Tape of 2023 - Reviewed So, dont expose it to rain or liquidy areas like an aquarium. Date/Lot Code. Differences One of the most significant differences between gaffer tape and duct tape is that only the former can be removed cleanly. Pete Ortiz Last updated: Jan 18 2023 If you have ever been comparing tape types, you probably notice that gaffers tape is more expensive than duct tape, even though they look really similar. The problem was that the lunar module was only designed to support two crew members, and the C02 scrubber couldn't keep up with the extra load created by the third astronaut. Blue silicone coated Gaffer tape utilizes a non-permanent adhesive that can be removed without damaging the surface that lies beneath it and only leaving a light residue. to Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Duct Tape: permanent and/or semi-permanent I like to get the big beefy MacDonald's straws and do small spools of gaff tape, duct tape, electrical tape, cloth tape etc so I have a variety in the tool box for various . Gaffer's tape is relatively heat-resistant, making it ideal for applications such as adhering an object to a stove or light fixture. 13 Locations across USA, Canada and Mexico for fast delivery of Uline Gaffer's Tape. The tape is useful for various purposes such as waterproofing, splicing, bundling, sealing walls, electrical, and plumbing. Tape, Duct, Polyethylene Film, Silver, 179.8ft L x 1.89" W. 3M. 8 Types of Green Onions: An Overview (with Pictures), 11 DIY Scrap Wood Projects You Can Build Today (With Pictures). It will hold together almost everything, making it a very reliable tape to use when you want to be sure that your project doesnt fall apart. If the walls are made of gypsum, its usually safe to use gaffer tape since it doesnt usually cause damage or leave a residue. Ideal for: Temporary uses especially when you cant damage the surface beneath the tape. Gaffer tape is a cloth-backed, high-tensile tape with a matte finish. Gaffer tape is usually made of a heavy cloth or vinyl-backed cloth, and often has a neutral adhesive. Glass stabilized solvent based modified acrylic wound.. Professional Grade Transfer Tape. While duct tape also comes in different color options, it always has a shiny, glossy finish. Unlike gaffers tape, duct tape is the better option for permanent fixtures. The Plumbing Puzzle. The biggest downside of duct tape is that the adhesive side is incredibly sticky and leaves a sticky residue whenever you remove the tape. Tearable? Although these two types of adhesive tapes differ significantly in critical aspects, they do share some common qualities as follows: As previously explained, gaffer tape and duct tape feature different constructions and qualities, making them ideal for different situations. For a similar 60 yard roll of gaffer tape, you can pay more than $15.99. Gaffers tape or Duct tape? What Is Gaffer's Tape? Gaffers tape It is generally seen as a premium alternative to duct tape because of its superior strength and performance in many applications. This can damage the surface youre taping and leave an ugly eyesore. Duct tape is also highly water-resistant due to the polyethylene coating that's applied on top of the cloth core, while the rubber-based, pressure-sensitive adhesive backing adheres well to a wide variety of surfaces. It is sold in a range of widths from 1/4 to 4, with the 1 and 2 the most common. The primary difference between gaffer tape and duct tape is the adhesive residue left behind when the tape is removed. In addition, because gaffer tape is generally used for non-skin related tasks such as binding lights or cabling, its adhesive strength is typically much higher than what is used in medical tapes and tapes specifically made for use with skin. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Often times and to the dismay of tape experts everywhere these tapes are mistaken for being interchangeable. Understanding the difference between these two types of tape will prevent frustration and ensure positive results for your application. Gaffer tape also referred to as gaff tape or gaffers. Gaffer tape is designed to provide a secure, non-slip grip, but it isnt designed to adhere to paint or other surfaces, so it cant be used for painting. A good tape often comes in handy when you need to fix minor repairs, say on your plumbing or when you need to patch a tent or wrap cords. Stoudt's plea to President Roosevelt worked, and eventually reached the War Production Board. However, since it wont melt, you can also use it for outdoor repairs and building projects that get a lot of sunlight. Instead, gaffers tape is better for certain situations, while duct tape is better for others. Duct tape is constructed with a polyethylene (PE) cloth backing, a material that makes the tape waterproof. Vinyl Tape 8 Kinds of Duct Tape: Are You Using the Right One?? While gaffer tape is usually resistant to moisture, Premium Cloth (67665) does not have a polyethylene backing like duct tape or even Standard Grade Gaffer Tape (67680); so its not waterproof. Image Credit: Pixabay This means that the performance of the tape will largely depend on the job. It blends in well with floors and backgrounds and can be purchased in many different colors but the most popular, of course, is black. With that being said, the adhesive on gaffers tape is not waterproof. It is most commonly used in theatre, photography, movie and television production, as well as industrial staging work. Duct tape is usually constructed using polyethylene whereas gaffer tape is cloth backed and made using a synthetic rubber-based adhesion system. Gaffer Tape vs. Duct Tape: Differences Explained, Similar Qualities Between Gaffer Tape and Duct Tape, Key Factors to Consider When Deciding Between Gaffer and Duct Tape, Best Gaffer Tape and Duct Tape on the Market, 8 of the Best Flooring Options for Uneven Floor Surfaces, The Unseen Consequences of Not Flushing the Toilet, Do Ceiling Fans Need to Be Oiled? On the other hand, gaffer tape is water-resistant and can also stand up to high temperatures. Check out our Still, the tape is waterproof and highly affordable, making it a great multipurpose option. ET, Send us an EmailEmail Because duct tape and gaffer tape are for different applications, it should go without saying that using one for the others intended purpose is ill-advised. It is also very difficult to tear and is known to be very adhesive. Which one is more heat tolerant? In fact, this tape is so popular for professionals in this niche that its become a slang verb. Because of its versatile, strong, and affordability, duct tape is great for permanent home use. Some situations call for gaffer, and some call for duct. The fabric is more resistant to heat, which prevents the tape from leaving a sticky residue whenever it is removed. cloth tapes for bonding to rough and textured surfaces. It may be tempting to use gaffer tape as a makeshift painters tape, but it wont provide the same secure grip, and will likely leave behind unwanted residue. Well known for its versatility and strength, duct tape is a cloth tape coated with a polyethylene resin on one side and an aggressive, rubber-based adhesiveon the other. The reflective surface can be distracting or an eyesore on certain items, though. Contact us or leave a comment if you still have questions or need some additional assistance placing an order. (65015), General Accordingly, I recommend having both options available because they will both come in handy, depending on the scenario in question. Duct Tape vs Gaffer Tape: Head-2-Head Challenge - GafferTape.com Top 10 Surfaces that Are Problems for Duct Tape. As youve probably realized so far, gaffer tape and duct tape are very different. You can use it for other purposes, like setting up a temporary booth or table at a trade show or fair. It will hold its shape, but it may not be a tight fit. While the fix wasn't pretty, it worked, further elevating the cult-like status of duct tape as a simple solution to complex repair jobs involving some of the most technologically-advanced equipment on earth and beyond. Intensity Retro Reflective Tape (HXREF), Fluorescent Gaffers tape is a specialty tape used mainly in the cinema, television, theater and music industries. Gaffer tape is a soft, flexible cloth tape that leaves no residue. Some situations call for gaffer, and some call for duct. The difference is all about the backing.
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