Tapes

About Tapes

Professional tapes are essential consumables across every trade and industry, offering solutions for sealing, fixing, insulating, marking, and protecting. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of specialist tapes designed to meet the demanding requirements of tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts alike. From heavy-duty duct tape for temporary repairs to precision masking tape for decorating, each tape type is engineered for specific applications where standard adhesives simply won't suffice.

Our tape category includes industry-standard options such as PTFE plumbers tape for thread sealing, electrical insulation tape rated for 240v applications, hazard warning tape for site safety, and anti-slip safety grip tape for preventing accidents. Whether you're a plumber sealing pipe threads, an electrician insulating connections, a decorator achieving clean paint lines, or a warehouse manager marking floor areas, MyToolShed stocks the right tape for your professional requirements.

Applications

Professional tapes serve tradespeople and industries including:

• Plumbers: PTFE tape for watertight thread sealing on pipe fittings and connections
• Electricians: Insulation tape for securing and protecting electrical connections up to 240v
• Decorators: Masking tape for clean edges, sharp paint lines, and surface protection
• Builders and joiners: Duct tape for temporary fixes, vapour barriers, and site repairs
• Warehouse and logistics: Packing tape for secure carton sealing and shipment preparation
• Health and safety managers: Hazard tape and safety grip tape for marking dangers and preventing slips
• Maintenance teams: Denso tape for corrosion protection on pipes and metal structures
• General construction: Double-sided tape for mounting, bonding, and temporary fixings

Choosing The Right Tapes

Selecting the appropriate tape depends on several key factors:

• Adhesive strength: Consider permanent versus removable adhesion and the surface texture you're applying to
• Environmental conditions: Choose weather-resistant, UV-stable, or waterproof tapes for outdoor applications
• Temperature resistance: Ensure your tape can withstand the operating temperatures of your application
• Backing material: PVC, cloth, paper, or foam backings each offer different tear resistance, conformability, and durability
• Width and length: Match tape dimensions to your job requirements to minimise waste
• Compliance requirements: For electrical work, verify insulation tape meets relevant BS/EN standards
• Surface compatibility: Some tapes work better on smooth surfaces, others on rough or porous materials

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between gaffer tape and duct tape?

Gaffer tape uses a fabric backing with synthetic rubber adhesive that removes cleanly without residue, making it ideal for temporary applications. Duct tape has a polyethylene-coated cloth backing with stronger adhesive designed for semi-permanent repairs and moisture resistance, but typically leaves residue when removed.

Can I use insulation tape on 240v mains connections?

Quality electrical insulation tape is rated for 240v applications, but it should only be used for insulating and securing properly made connections, never as a primary insulation method. Always ensure the tape meets relevant British Standards and check the manufacturer's voltage rating before use.

How long does PTFE tape last on plumbing fittings?

When properly applied to clean, dry threads, PTFE tape creates a seal that typically lasts the lifetime of the installation. However, if joints are repeatedly disturbed or exposed to extreme temperatures or chemicals, periodic inspection and resealing may be necessary.