How do I choose the right tape?

Tape… it’s arguably one of the most important tools in the warehouse, office or shop. For some, tape is a silent witness to tragic events (to cover up accidents). For others, tape equates to happy moments (like the moment of tearing open a long-awaited parcel, for example!).

As you browse through the vast range of adhesives and strapping and bonding products, you’ll no doubt regularly ask yourself the question: how do I choose the right tape? Save yourself some time and check out the list below to choose the ideal tape for your needs.

The family of tapes and their applications

What is the purpose of an adhesive tape? The primary function of an adhesive tape is to temporarily join products together. Whatever the adhesive, it is advisable to apply it at a temperature above +15°C on a clean and dry surface. In the meantime, there have been so many new developments and changes, that it is time to list its many new applications:

► 1. Packing and closing parcels

Let’s start by taking a look at its most common features. As you know, there are an incredible number of cases and almost as many adhesives. The big differences are in the small details

• The best partner for all your boxes: PP adhesive tapeIn the world of packaging tapes, polypropylene tape (or PP tape) is the most widely used version today.The brown coloured variants are probably the most well-known, but you can also find them in white or transparent variants.This packaging adhesive sticks perfectly to paper or cardboard.A popular variant of this tape is the silent polypropylene tape.It obviously produces less noise than a standard adhesive.

• Polypropylene’s big brother: PVC adhesive tapeInitially, PVC tape was standard. It is stronger than polypropylene and therefore more suitable for sealing heavier packages (up to 40 kg). This type of tape is much more elastic than PP and also quieter.

• The real strong one: reinforced adhesive tapeThis tape is reinforced with glass threads, which makes it tear-proof. With this tape you can pack even the heaviest boxes with complete peace of mind. Reinforced tape is the ideal solution for storing your goods for a long time or when you know that the transport will be ‘turbulent’ (shocks, large temperature variations, humidity, etc.).

► 2. Temporary packaging, marking and protection

Let’s take a look at the ‘artist’ of the family: masking tape. This is an indispensable tool for every painter! Since this adhesive does not stick so strongly, it can be removed without leaving any traces. This adhesive is made entirely of paper and can therefore be cut easily by hand. In addition to being an indispensable support for painters, it is also very useful in every warehouse: this adhesive allows you to write on it, for example to mark your products or shelves. Moreover, it is water-resistant and can withstand high temperatures up to +60°C!

► 3. Double-sided bonding to all materials

Double sided tape is perfect for many uses. This adhesive sticks perfectly to all surfaces, smooth or rough: wood, PVC, film, foam, paper, cardboard… Whether you want to discreetly stick photos on the wall or lay carpet on the floor, it will always meet your expectations. This tape has a strong adhesive power and is not as irreversible as a nail or a screw, which allows you to remove the glued products without damaging them.

► 4. Giving your packages more visibility

Closing your parcels securely is just one of the many functions of tape. You can also go a step further and give your parcels a personal touch so that they are always clearly visible. In fact, it’s very easy! Add your brand or colours to any tape with just one click. A personalised tape is a real chameleon and adapts to every look imaginable. For the recipient, it’s even easier to identify the parcel.

► 5. Packaging in a more environmentally friendly way

De nos jours, il existe une alternative écologique pour tous les emballages. Évidemment, cela vaut aussi pour les rubans adhésifs. Vous avez par exemple le ruban adhésif polypropylène écologique avec 30 % de matière plastique en moins. Ce produit réduit donc considérablement la consommation de matières premières !

Si vous cherchez la solution la plus écologique, vous devez jeter un coup d’œil au ruban adhésif en papier. Comme son nom l’indique, cet adhésif est entièrement fabriqué à partir de papier. Il se recycle donc aisément avec votre caisse en carton. Pour la fermeture la plus écologique, il est préférable d’opter pour une bande gommée. Cet adhésif est plus résistant aux variations de température, à l’humidité, à l’exposition aux U.V. et à une fermeture longue durée. Comme vous pouvez le voir : quand nous parlons des rubans adhésifs, il y en a pour tous les goûts !