Insulation Tapes
(5 Products)Insulation tape's primary purpose is to cover the seams between insulation boards, however, it can also bring additional features such as weather resistance and heat resistance depending on its material. Aluminium foil tape eliminates pockets of air between boards and protects against moisture. We stock aluminium foil tape in 50mm, 75mm, and 100mm widths. Insulation tape can be used for a variety of purposes, from roofing to connecting plasterboard.
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What Is Insulation Tape?
In the construction industry, it is not uncommon for a building to use more energy than predicted during its design. This largely comes down to the installation of the insulation and air gaps between and behind the insulation itself.
Whilst the thermal conductivity of an insulation board is consistent, its performance can fluctuate if not installed properly. Insulation tape is designed to combat thermally compromising air gaps by covering the seams between boards and frameworks like joists and studs. Whilst it isn't an absolute necessity, insulation tape is recommended.
Tape functions as a barrier against air pockets, which in turn, maximises the efficiency and performance of the thermal insulation itself; insulation boards are most effective when they are laid flush against each other.
When air gaps are minimised, heat loss is lessened, meaning decreased energy bills and optimal thermal performance.
What Are The Benefits of Insulation Tape?
- Thermal performance – Both acrylic adhesive tape and foil-backed tape can improve the thermal envelope of your home. If the tape is installed correctly, it eliminates air pockets that could otherwise impact the effectiveness of your insulation boards
- Moisture resistance – Acrylic and foil tape are both moisture resistant. Moisture can compromise the structural integrity of your insulation material as it presents a breeding ground for rot and mould. Buying tape for insulation seams can prevent moisture from becoming a much larger problem. Tyvek tape is water-proof, whereas aluminium foil can only protect your materials against small amounts of moisture.
What Is Insulation Tape Used For?
Even when insulation boards are side by side, there is still a seam. Tape seals this seam and eliminates the chance of air or moisture infiltrating the space between your insulation materials.
You can also place insulation tape over the seam in many applications; between insulation boards and frameworks like rafters, studs, and walls. We recommend placing tape on every type of seam. The more seams you cover, the better the thermal envelope of your home.
Where To Use Insulation Tape
Insulation tape is tough and dependable, while still being flexible. Highly versatile in its application, it can be used on a number of materials such as plastic, metal and wood.
There is a wide range of insulation tape types on the market; some maintain temperature and reduce heat transfer while others work to inhibit moisture and offer weather-resistance.
You can place insulation tape over the seam between insulation boards and frameworks like rafters, studs, and walls.
As a rule of thumb, thicker insulation tapes offer a stronger bond and better insulation overall.
Aluminium Foil Tape
Aluminium foil tape is the most popular type of tape that we offer. It has lots of different names including thermal insulation tape as well as foam and silver foil tape. This type of thermal insulating tape is made from soft aluminium foil and is manufactured with a flame-retardant adhesive. You do not need to worry about aluminium tape contributing to the risk of fire in your build-up of materials.
Foil-backed tape is designed for installation on all types of foil-faced insulation. Self-adhesive in its design, it is most commonly used in conjunction with PIR insulation boards, but it will stick to almost any material.
Foil insulation tape is not waterproof, but it does act as a barrier against moisture and vapour. When moisture infiltrates insulation build-ups, it can cause a number of problems. It can impact the effectiveness of the insulation and even cause unsecured insulation to drift. Aluminium tape is a cheap, simple extra option for people who want to guarantee the longevity of their expensive insulation materials.
We stock a popular 45m roll of silver foil tape. It is available in 50mm, 75mm, and 100m widths.
Tyvek Acrylic Tape
We stock Tyvek Single-Sided Acrylic Tape and Tyvek Double-Sided Acrylic Tape. Both rolls are made from Tyvek HDPE and acrylic adhesive. Unlike the silver insulation tape that we stock, Tyvek tape boasts waterproof properties.
It has a strong, secure hold that can withstand large downpours and excessive humidity. Acrylic insulation tape also acts as a barrier against air; reduced air leakage leads to better energy efficiency.
Double-sided tape is ideal for people who want to create a build-up of insulation materials. You can apply it directly to the material. Tyvek tape has a strong tack, which will stay secure in even the most humid environments. You can place another board or membrane on top and depend on Tyvek for a superior hold.
Frequently Asked Insulation Tapes Questions
What Type of Tape to Use on Foam Pipe Insulation?
Foam pipe insulation protects your pipes from extreme temperature changes, eliminating humidity and pipe sweating.
Aluminium foil tape and Tyvek acrylic tape are the two most popular types of tape that we stock. Both work equally well when securing foam pipe insulation. They also act as a barrier against cold air, which ensures the longevity of your insulation materials for years to come.
How to Tape Insulation Seams?
Hold the roll close to the seam, find the end of the tape, and apply it directly to the seam. From there, you can unwind the roll and smooth the tape onto the seam as you go.
It is important to apply tape to the end of the seam. You should aim to cover all the places where the two insulation boards meet, even the corners if applicable. If you leave gaps, the tape will not have the same impact. This applies to all the types of tape that we stock.
What Is Electrical Insulation Tape?
Electrical insulation tapes (otherwise known as electro tapes) are used to protect, insulate and shield. Purposed to insulate wires and cables that conduct electricity, the tape works to reflect radiant heat away from cables, lines and wires.
It is typically made from PVC but many other plastics can also be used. If you are working with wiring or circuitry, it is best to use PVC electrical tape rather than other types of adhesive tape. Other kinds of adhesive tapes aren't necessarily created for electrical use and may not have the needed thermal or insulating qualities required in this specific application.
PVC insulation tape offers a complete solution in electrical tracking, preventing the transfer of an electrical current and boasting a slight degree of weather-resistance.
This does not mean, however, that it offers complete protection against moisture; it won't waterproof electrical wires and cables. Keeping wiring and other components away from water is a must, no matter the insulation applied to them.
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