Seal Leaky Ducts With Flexible Duct Tape

Duct tape is a handy tool for many jobs and projects, from fixing busted broom handles to patching holes in walls and drywall. It's even used in the entertainment industry for taping down lighting and electrical wires onstage before a show. However, despite its many uses, it's not meant to seal leaky ducts. Duct tape can actually do more harm than good by causing air gaps and sealing failure, which can result in higher energy bills.

To seal ducts properly, you need a special type of tape that's designed for the job. The best option is a duct tape alternative that has been UL tested for performance, safety and code compliance. These types of duct tape alternatives are foil-backed, with butyl and acrylic adhesives that hold tight on the wall surfaces, creating a solid, durable, waterproof seal. They also have high shear strength to stand up to rigorous applications and temperatures.

Unlike traditional duct tape, these types of duct tape alternatives have the ability to conform to irregular surfaces and curves, and are also weather and UV resistant. They can even be used on ducts and reflective insulation to create an airtight vapor barrier. They are made from a heavy-duty aluminum foil that has been coated with a high shear, industrial-grade pressure-sensitive adhesive. Some even have a tamper evident feature that alerts the user if someone tampered with the tape.

When choosing a foil-backed tape, look for one that is UL Listed for use with ducting and HVAC materials. These types of duct tapes are tested for flame resistance, mold growth and humidity, static load, impact, collapse, tension and more to ensure quality and safety. In addition, they have been engineered and tested for use with specific ducting materials such as metal and foil.

A UL Listed duct tape can be used to seam, seal and repair class 1 flex duct work as well as ducting to fixture connections and to seal air gaps in reflectors. It is also a cost-effective alternative to paint-on mastic.

If you're looking for a strong, durable tape that can withstand harsh conditions and extreme temperatures, look no further than 3M Foil Tapes. These tough and versatile tapes are indispensable on the jobsite for applications such as sealing ducts and reflective insulation, repairing air connectors, roofs and gutters, and creating vapor barriers in extreme temperature environments.