Get Summer Ready With the Best Waterproof Tape
Even if you’re someone who doesn't meddle in handiwork or repairs, you are bound to need waterproof tape at one point or another. This is because waterproof tapes have plenty of uses around the house, in the workplace, or in an industrial area. So even if you have never been one for repairs, you would know that waterproof tape is the best option when you have a leaky pipe.
While a simple thing to use, the versatility of waterproof tape makes them a powerhouse in both manufacturing and repair work. To help you get the best waterproof tape, we’ve curated a list of the top waterproof tapes of 2024!
Our Top Picks
Comparing the Highest-Rated Waterproof Tapes of 2024
Best Overall
Gorilla’s Outdoor Waterproof Tape is perfect for outdoor repairs that may have to face harsh weather conditions. Capable of standing ground in a variety of weather conditions, the tape has a permanent bond that’s sourced from a strong adhesive—resulting in a weather-resistant shell.
The tape can work in temperatures as high as 200 degrees, and since this tape also resists reactions to high heat it will withstand cracking, peeling, and drying. Also voted as the best waterproof tape, it can be easily used on tarps, automobiles, roofs, and RVs.
Pros
- Compatible with low and high temperatures
- It has a permanent bond
- Does not dry or crack
Cons
- It can’t be used on fabric
Best Economical Option
This high-quality waterproof tape is made of butyl adhesive, which is really strong and long-lasting. It provides an airtight sealing for all appliances and materials so that you get proper results. And to add to its durability, the tape can be easily used on uneven, rugged surfaces that may be hard to tape.
This tape is also a great option for leaks whether it’s water, chemical, or vapor leaks. The white surface of the tape can be easily painted over to match the color of the surroundings, and since this is a heavy-duty tape it is temperature resistant to temperatures as high as 176 degrees.
Pros
- You can easily paint over the surface
- It can tackle chemical leakages
- It is made of pure butyl rubber
Cons
- It’s hard to wrap around thin pipes
Best Value
WELSTIK’s Waterproof Duct Tape provides maximum value for its users due to its lengthy measurement, allowing you to cover up and repair a good chunk of items without running out. The tape has a width of 2 inches, which is good enough to cover most household items.
This duct tape is ideal for several surfaces including metal, plastic, and concrete. It is easy to tear off and can also be removed from a surface without making a gooey mess to add to its no-fuss nature it also does not damage the paint or coating of the surface when removed. Another great feature of this tape is that it is flame-retardant and can extinguish dangerous flames within three seconds of contact.
Pros
- Can be used on concrete and metal
- The tape can be easily torn off
- The tape won’t catch fire
Cons
- Cannot stick to fabric or canvas
Lasts Longer
360Tronics’ Waterproof Tape is made of butyl aluminum and is perfect for use on cement, rubber, and metal. Whether it’s indoor leaks, RVs, doors, walls, sprinklers, or air ducts the strong adhesive can easily stop leaks in any corner of your home. It is also quite temperature-resistant and can handle high and low temperatures.
The surface of this tape is also non-slip, and since the edges can withstand wear you can rest assured that the tape will last you a long time without wearing out.
Pros
- Can be used at high temperatures
- Can be used in any climate
- Helps with leaks
Cons
- Doesn’t accommodate water pipes or peeled walls
Best Quality
The 3-inch width of XFasten’s Super Strong Waterproof Tape provides the perfect size to cover major repair areas in the home or outside. This industrial-grade duct tape can endure a variety of temperatures, making it ideal for use in automobile seats, surfaces, boats, and shipping boxes.
It strongly binds to wood, concrete, tile, tarp, textile, and cardboard. Also capable of working with fabric, the white color of the tape gives a neat, clean finish.
Pros
- It is useful for cars and boats
- You can use it on textile and fabrics
- The tape can work in extreme temperatures
Cons
- The tearing process can be messy
Buyer’s Guide to Finding Waterproof Tape
Waterproof tapes are a god-sent for multiple reasons. Aside from putting things back together, it can help hide and conceal flaws beyond repair. This is why it is quite essential to own waterproof tape.
Here’s a buying guide on how to pick a great waterproof tape for your specific needs.
What Is Waterproof Tape?
Waterproof tape is a high-quality tape that is both adhesive and waterproof. This means that the tape does not absorb water or allow it to pass through its surface. It also does not let water affect its adhesion, unlike regular plastic tapes.
Types of Waterproof Tape
While there are many different types of waterproof tapes available on the market, we will be talking about the top five choices that are readily available.
Non-slip waterproof tape
A non-slip waterproof tape has a textured and uneven backing that prevents slipping. They are mostly used on walking surfaces, like roads or areas with wet surfaces where slipping might be likely. The textured surface creates friction that prevents any slipping accidents, making it perfect for those who are repairing flooring.
Reflective tape
This kind of waterproof tape has a reflective surface which is used to mark cars and trash cans. This way, they are visible in poor lighting conditions or at night. Normally used outdoors, you can also use reflective tape for indoor purposes.
Drywall tape
This kind of tape is used to fill the space between two drywall surfaces. It is ideal for use in areas that are moist or humid, like the bathroom or kitchen.
Duct tape
Duct tape is the most popular waterproof tape. It has a thick layer of adhesive and is textured as well. Also featuring a cloth backing, duct tapes usually leave a residue after removing them.
Gaffer tape
Gaffer tape is a lot like duct tape but it is only water-resistant and not waterproof. This is because of the heavy cotton surface that it has. While just as durable and strong as duct tape, it does not leave a residue after removal.
How to Choose the Perfect Waterproof Tape
Here are some important things to consider when buying waterproof tape.
Adhesive strength
Waterproof tape comes with different adhesive strengths, owing to different usage. For example, if you want waterproof tape for repairing leaks it has to have a thick consistency of adhesive which will be quite strong and can not be used on cardboard. To enhance your experience, you need to get a tape with the right adhesion so that it does not get hard for you to manage to tear and remove it.
Material
Waterproof tape can be made from a variety of materials including plastic, rubber, and cotton. Since the material affects the water-wicking properties of the tape, you can expect plastic to be a good waterproofing material compared to cloth. Another example is how cotton waterproof tape requires an additional coating to make them waterproof.
People Also Asked
Can waterproof tape be used to stop water leaks?
A high-adhesion waterproof tape can be used to fix water leaks. Due to its thick backing and viscous adhesive layer, it can create a really strong bond that prevents water from passing through.
Is waterproof tape resistant to scratches?
While waterproof tape is durable, like any other tape it is not entirely resistant to wear and tear. If your waterproof tape shows signs of damage, you can replace it with a new strip of tape or layer it over.
Can I use waterproof tape for my boat?
Because waterproof tape can deter water exposure, it’s a great choice for water vessels as well. To enhance your experience, you can also double layer your waterproof tape or cut it to fit narrower spaces.
Is PVC tape entirely waterproof?
PVC is a great material for waterproofing tapes, hence why PVC tapes can resist water as well as most weather conditions all year round. This makes them a perfect candidate for water vessels and backyard repairs.
Is scotch tape waterproof?
While scotch tapes are plastic tapes, they are not entirely waterproof and should not be used for repairs. While they may resist water or moisture for some time, they will not hold through long exposure to a lot of water or harsh weather conditions.