Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Paint Masking Tape: The Perfect Solution to Prevent Paint Bleeding

If you want clean edges when painting, paint masking tape is indispensable whether it is a DIY or a large commercial project. Nothing looks worse or more unprofessional than dripping, bleeding paint whether on an automobile or in a house around ceiling trim, baseboards, door frames, and windows.

What kind of paint masking tape is best?

Paint masking tape isn't expensive, but you don't want a tape that is so cheap that it's worthless. The following is what you should look for when purchasing masking tape:

• The tape should be made of paper that you can easily tear off the roll while using.
• The tape should have excellent tensile strength (meaning it can be stretched without tearing).
• It should be easily removable without leaving an adhesive residue.
• If using for large commercial jobs, use a medium-high adhesion tape.

Steps for using paint masking tape successfully

If you don't apply paint masking carefully, the job will not be clean. Just follow a few simple steps and your project will be a success.

It's important to take your time. Putting the tape on straight and tight on the wall is the trickiest part of all, so don't be in a rush when applying the masking tape.

Use short lengths of tape (no longer than 18" strips) or you will not have control of its application. It is critical is to apply the tape as close to the edge as possible to ensure you have a tight seal.

Once in place, apply as much pressure as you can to the tape with either a putty knife or your hands, smoothing away all bubbles and being careful not to add wrinkles to the tape.

You can now safely begin painting the unmasked part of your project. Leave the tape in place if applying a second coat. If applying more than two coats, you should apply new tape since the tight seal can be lost after too many paint applications.

The best time to remove the masking tape is immediately after you are finished painting or after the paint is completely dry. If you try to remove it while the paint is setting, you risk peeling off some of the paint.

Slowly and gently pull each section of the masking tape off in a horizontal position (at a 45 to 90 degree angle). The result should be a clean, professional-looking edge cut.

Paint masking tape may seem to be an unnecessary, time-consuming chore. However, if you do not use it, you will end up spending more time cleaning up all the places with unwanted paint on them. You will see that the little bit of time it takes to apply the tape will be well worth it once you see the finished results - perfection.

Jeffrey Adams invites you to take a look at Oriental Commerce. If you want clean edges when painting, paint masking tape is indispensable whether it is a DIY or a large commercial project.


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