For DIYers, use masking tapes can be a frustrating experience. It can be tricky to make sure it’s applied straight, and it can tear a lot easier than most would like to admit. But, there’s something hugely satisfying about peeling it off after the job is done and seeing crisp lines that wouldn’t look out of place on a hospital bed.
Photo: masking tape
masking tape
Masking tape is a lightweight paper tape. It is pressure sensitive, making it easy to tear the roll as needed and easily lift it from surfaces. It is available in different adhesive strengths and widths to tackle a variety of tasks. Some masking tapes are rated on how long they can adhere to a surface before leaving a residue. If you don’t follow these guidelines, you may leave glue on the surface, which will be difficult to remove.
A low tack tape is the lowest tack, it’s the perfect solution for a sticky situation. For example, if you’re painting geometric shapes and you’ve recently painted the wall, low-tack tape will ensure you don’t lift your new paint. Blue masking tape is a low tack masking tape that is most commonly used in the paint industry. It is blue in color so you can easily locate it to remove after painting. Most low-tack masking tapes come in bright colors, and all of these are meant to paint delicate surfaces and make identification easier when the job is done.
Do professional decorators use masking tape?
Absolutely. Although not all decorators choose to use masking tape, it is still a common weapon in the decorator’s arsenal. It ensures a clean finish and protects the customer’s property.
Masking tape should be used to mask areas that should not be painted. It can be used to hide baseboards, cornices, windows, ceilings, light switches and outlets. It can also be used to fix your dust covers to the floor or to furniture. If you use it to attach dust sheets to furniture, make sure it is low sticky to avoid leaving residue.
Professional decorators select their masking tapes based on a few key factors: width, adhesive, and surface. Masking tape comes in a variety of widths to handle an assortment of tasks, from painting patterns to spraying cars. You can also purchase masking tape depending on the surface you are working on – textured tape will help prevent the spread. Low tack is usually the most suitable solution for interior decorators, but high tack masking tape is available.
Use an applicator
Professional decorators use a tape applicator to easily mask larger areas. It could be quite easy to hide the baseboards. However, a masking tape applicator will make masking large areas easier, as it not only applies the tape, it can also apply masking paper at the same time. If you plan to use a spray gun, you should opt for a tape applicator.
Be sure to read the packaging to ensure you remove the masking tape in the correct time frame. If you remove it too soon, it can splatter paint onto your fresh paint. And if you remove it too late, it can leave a tough-to-remove residue.
