Finding The Right Roofing Tape For The Right Job

For those who are getting ready for their next roofing job, it is important to use the right roofing tape. The point of roofing tape is to prevent the infiltration (or exfiltration) of water and air through the roof. Water is one of the most common factors in building damage, leading to corrosion, decay, mold, and numerous other problems. This is where roofing tape is critical. When it comes to roofing tape, there are a few key points to keep in mind.

What Is Roofing Tape?

First, roofing tape is a thin, impervious material that prevents water and air from entering the building. It tapes seams, flashing, and numerous other openings to ensure that roofers have a tight seal. This will keep water out of the building and create a barrier that can reduce heating and air conditioning costs while also improving air quality in the building, which is better for everyone’s health. There are numerous new materials used to make roofing tape that provides roofers with more options than they had in the past. Therefore, it is important for roofers to choose the right roofing tape for the job.

The Factors Involved in Choosing the Right Roofing Tape

There are a few key factors that all roofers need to consider when they are looking for a roofing tape. These include:

• UV Protection: All roofers have to think about the amount of UV protection that a roll of roofing tape might have. Sunlight is prone to degrading certain types of tape and this will render the tape less effective over time.
• Cold Weather: Temperature is also going to play a role in choosing the right flashing tape. For example, most tapes that are made out of bitumen are not going to work well in cold weather, meaning that they will not stick in temperatures of under 40 degrees F. An acrylic or butyl-based tape is the best option for roofers who are looking for cold weather materials.
• The Installation Process: Finally, roofers also need to think about the installation process for each type of tape. While the processes are going to be similar, they are not identical. Think about the application technique, the application temperature, and the compatibility of roofing tapes with various substrates.

These are a few of the most important factors to consider when looking for a metallic roofing tape.

Specific Roofing Tapes: Modified Bitumen vs. Butyl vs. Acrylic

There are a few common materials that are used to make roofing tape. These include:

• Modified Bitumen: Modified Bitumen is the most common type of tape. It is made from petroleum and asphalt. It is the least expensive option but it will dry out over time, reducing its effectiveness.
• Butyl: Butyl adhesive technology is a popular option as well; however, it is critical to look at the temperature range of butyl tape. Some butyl adhesives are modified to improve their effectiveness in cold weather but others are not.
• Acrylic: This is the strongest option for roofing tape. It lasts a long time and has a wide temperature range over which it will be effective. On the other hand, acrylic roofing tape is also the most expensive option.

Rely on Roofing Direct for All Roofing Tape Needs

If you are looking for the right roofing tape for your next job, then look no further than Roofing Direct for all of your roofing contractor supplies. At Roofing Direct, we have a variety of roofing tapes, so take a look at our selection today and find the best one for your next job!