When it comes to home improvement projects, it’s important to use the right tools and materials for the job. It may seem like a good idea to use duct tape as an underlayment tape, but this is actually not a good idea. Duct tape is not meant to be used as an underlayment tape, and using it can have serious consequences.
What is an Underlayment Tape?
Underlayment is a thin material that is used as a protective layer between the surface of the subfloor and the finish flooring. It serves a variety of purposes, including providing extra cushioning and insulation, reducing sound, levelling out any imperfections in the subfloor, and protecting the floor from moisture. Common types of underlayment include felt paper, foam, cork, rubber, and plastic.
Underlayment tapes are designed specifically for flooring and roofing applications, and it will last much longer than duct tape. Not only does it provide a strong bond and a waterproof seal, but it is also highly durable and resistant to extreme temperatures and weather conditions.
What is Duct Tape?
Duct tape is a type of pressure-sensitive adhesive tape made from polyethylene-coated cloth with acrylic or rubber-based adhesive. It has many uses, including as an air and watertight seal for ductwork, HVAC systems, and even to hang posters. Duct tape is often used as a quick fix for broken or damaged items, or as a temporary solution until something can be replaced. While it’s incredibly versatile, it is not suitable for use as an underlayment tape.
Duct tape is strong and durable, making it great for holding items together, but the adhesive tends to be too powerful for most surfaces. The adhesive is designed to bond to surfaces instantly, making it difficult to reposition if needed. It also doesn’t have the necessary flexibility to conform to uneven surfaces and can cause damage if applied incorrectly.
Which One is Better?
When it comes to the decision between using duct tape or underlayment tape, there is no question that underlayment tape is the better option. Underlayment tape is specifically designed to adhere to the surface it is applied to, and it provides a much stronger bond than duct tape. It is also designed to withstand moisture, high temperatures, and extreme weather conditions, so it can last for many years without needing to be replaced.
The adhesive used in underlayment tape is much stronger than the adhesive found in duct tape. The strong adhesive also helps to create a strong seal between the surface and the tape.
Overall, underlayment tape is the clear winner when it comes to choosing which type of tape should be used for flooring and roofing projects.
We Recommend the following Underlayment Tapes
1. ELK Vapor Barrier Tape
Elk vapor barrier underlayment tapes are highly durable and waterproof tapes designed to withstand even in tough conditions. It is also insulating, sticky and weather proof. This tape can not only be used for Underlayment, but for a variety of purposes including repairs, pipes, colour coding, boat preservation, surface protection, shrink wrap, stucco application masking etc. Elk vapor barrier tapes are available in white and red colours.
ELK Vapor Underlayment tapes consist of a rubber based and pressure sensitive adhesive coating which helps in high conformability. It can bond well to any surface. With these underlayment tapes, you can finish your work easily.
2. ROBERTS 50-040 Underlayment Tape
Roberts 50-040 underlayment tape is a great choice to use when it comes to Underlayment installation. It is a moisture resistant tape and a versatile underlayment tape that can be used for multi purposes. It is a good choice for packing and sealing, general repairs, carpet padding etc. This underlayment tape from Roberts offers better moisture protection compared to other underlayment tape rolls. Roberts 50-040 underlayment tapes are made of polyethylene and are highly durable.
3. XFasten Construction Seaming Tape
Resistant to any tough weather conditions including rainfall, snowy weather and UV and sunlight, Xfasten underlayment tapes are a great choice. Xfasten underlayment tapes are more sticky, thanks to the silicon butyl adhesive composite. Be it any tough condition, it sticks well for months without any issues. This tape from xfasten is also waterproof and humidity resistant. One of the main benefits of using xfasten underlayment tapes is that it prevents length wise splitting. It comes with a fibreglass sheathing tape which helps in preventing unnecessary splitting, curling, breaking etc and helps in fast operation. This tape is made to last for a long time.
When it comes to choosing between underlayment tape and duct tape for your flooring project, there is really no contest. Underlayment tape is the clear winner in terms of providing the best protection, strength, and durability. It has a strong adhesive that is designed to stick to both the subfloor and the underlayment and will not easily peel away or break down over time.