Duct Tape

Duct tape is the go-to cloth-reinforced, pressure-sensitive tape for fast fixes, sealing, bundling, and patching on jobsites, at home, and outdoors. Its polyethylene backing shrugs off moisture, its rubber or acrylic adhesive grabs a wide range of surfaces, and its hand-tearable design keeps you moving without a knife. From quick automotive repairs to construction punch lists and camping gear fixes, heavy-duty duct tape delivers a strong hold and conformability on wood, metal, plastic, masonry, and fabric.

Use it to seal temporary air leaks, bundle cables and hoses, reinforce edges, protect surfaces from abrasion, and label gear with bright colors. Need durability outside? Look for weather-resistant and UV-rated options. Want clean removal? Choose low-residue formulas. For true HVAC work, use UL 181 foil HVAC tape; standard duct tape is ideal for temporary seals, not code-compliant duct connections.

What to consider before you buy:
- Grade and strength: General-purpose is great for light repairs; contractor or industrial-grade offers higher tensile strength and thicker backing for rugged tasks.
- Adhesive type: Rubber-based provides aggressive initial tack; acrylic offers better UV and temperature resistance for outdoor use.
- Thickness (mils): Thicker tape resists abrasion and punctures and bridges gaps more easily.
- Width and length: 1.88 in (2 in nominal) is the everyday standard; wider rolls cover seams faster. Longer rolls reduce changeouts on big jobs.
- Color and finish: Classic silver and black for low profile; high-visibility colors and white for labeling and neat repairs; transparent options for discreet patches.
- Temperature rating and waterproofing: Check specs for cold weather performance, heat tolerance, and water resistance.

Application tips:
- Clean and dry the surface.
- Apply firm, even pressure; use a roller if available.
- Overlap edges and round tape corners to reduce lift.
- Store rolls in a cool, dry place.

Note: Not for high-heat zones, pressurized plumbing, or electrical insulation.