Choosing the right tape for the task can be daunting, You'll want something that's easily applied, durable and versatile. This covers almost every tape, but minor details matter. Gaffer or gaffer's tape is one example of the vast array of available tapes used in commercial and industrial settings. The multi-layered construction adds strength, while pressure-sensitive adhesive sticks well, but it also is residue-free once off. The tape is extensively used in commercial photography, theatre, film-making and TV, where it's used in securing and sealing stage cabling, setting up props, establishing actor, crew and equipment markings or affixing lights, lenses and other equipment. Besides its specialised uses, gaffer tape is also handy in dozens of DIY and household applications. So what makes it so sought after?
Gaffer Tape Basics
Gaffer tape is a polyethylene-coated cloth tape made of organic materials and with a natural or synthetic rubber adhesive. The cloth core lends it superb properties, while the strong adhesive sticks to almost any surface, yet is easily removed without leaving residue. The tape has been an entertainment industry staple since the 1950s, and today goes by different names. Besides being initially used by stage technicians (or gaffers) the tape is also known as Nashua 357 tape in Australia, named after the company that produces it.
Benefits
The unique combination of attributes gives gaffer or Nashua tape a long list of benefits, especially when compared to common duct or sticky tape:
- Strength and durability - the tightly woven flexible cloth has very high tensile strength, making the tape resistant to abrasions, punctures and tearing, allowing it to withstand impact in high-traffic areas.
- Heat and chemical resistance - cabling and electronics can get hot, meaning you'll need a tape that can take the heat. Gaffer tape has an operating temperature of up to 93 degrees, and will also remain flexible and pliant in below-zero temperatures. It is water and chemical-resistant, so it does well in humid settings and wicks away accidental spills.
- Strong adhesion - one of the selling points is that the adhesive backing sticks and conforms to any surface or material (wood, plastics, metals, other fabrics etc.) but can also be removed when not needed, without leaving unsightly marks. The tape peels off easily (unlike duct tape) and can be reused without losing its strong adhesion.
- Versatility and a variety of finishes - Nashua 357 tapes come in a variety of finishes, extending usage to different areas and industries. Whether it's matte, coloured, clear or gloss tape you're after, you'll find a tape to the exact specifications required for the job.
Black or white matte tape is most often seen in the film and entertainment industries, as it effectively hides cables and wiring, and is non-reflective to boot, so no unwanted ghosting in shots or attracting unneeded attention. Coloured tapes are also common. Brown gaffer tape for instance works well with wooden floors. Different colours can also substitute electrical tape in electrical wiring, or in markings to distinguish between actors or gear. Clear tapes are used on surfaces that need to be enumerated or marked, while gloss variants in hazardous areas. For instance, neon tape is effective in reducing the risks of tripping from unmarked cables.
Common Uses
Besides the entertainment industry where it's used in cable management, marking and labelling and securing gear in place, Nashua 357 tape is effective for waterproofing and sealing purposes, as the cloth doesn't absorb liquids, in areas with temperature extremes, such as securing wiring harnesses in engine bays, and in general repairs. The adhesive adjusts to the contours of uneven surfaces and sticks to smooth or rough materials. The tape is commonly used to hide tears in car seat fabric and clothing items, for temporary fixes of holes and hems in shoes and to hold metal or wood objects together during processing and assembly. Being flexible and easy to apply also makes it suitable for wrapping applications at home and in heavy-duty industrial wrapping.
Compared to Other Tapes
The natural ingredients (and low VOC levels) make gaffer tape an eco-friendly, durable and versatile alternative to other tapes. The high tensile strength and strong adhesive backing are preferred over synthetic tapes, particularly duct tape, for everyday uses. The tape can be stretched without tearing, is more supple and easier to apply, and with better pressure-sensitive adhesive, easier to remove, The fact that there's no sticky residue also means that it offers a neater finish and can be reused with the same effectiveness. Being non-reflective also has its benefits.
Another thing going for it is the high-temperature resistance. Duct tape can melt or ignite materials it's attached to. The opposite is true for gaffer tape and variants with heat-resistant aluminium foil are used for industrial sealing and wrapping parts exposed to nearby heat sources. Gaffer also has better moisture and water resistance, so works better than electrical tape in areas exposed to moisture and liquids. The higher UV resistance, better work against impact, punctures and abrasions and that it's relatively affordable make it a versatile all-rounder.
