Difference of Low Tack and High Tack Tapes

Tack is a key adhesive property in most tapes. Low tack has a weak adhesive for easy removal, while high tack has a strong adhesive with immediate bonding capability.
October 7, 2024 by
Difference of Low Tack and High Tack Tapes
SP Group Global Ltd

The adhesive gives tape its stickiness, but not all tapes have the same level of tackiness. There’s low tack and high tack, and you’ve probably seen these terms when browsing your options. But what do they actually mean? 

Tack in Adhesive Tapes 

Tack is one of the properties of adhesives used in most tapes, along with adhesion and cohesion. It’s what gives a tape its ‘quick stick’ to a solid surface upon initial contact, with no finger pressure or time to set. 

This stickiness can be measured using a finger test: press your finger against the tape then pull it away. If the tape sticks and comes off quickly, it has good tack. But how can you tell if it’s low tack or high tack? 

Low Tack Adhesive Explained 

Low tack has a weak adhesive, but that doesn’t mean it’s not effective. Rather, it means it’s much easier to remove, reattach, or reposition than high tack. Builders and DIYers alike usually go for its level of adhesive, as it doesn’t leave any residue behind. A low tack tape is also gentle enough to be used on delicate items, e.g., marking vintage furniture for measurement. 

Low tack tapes are suitable for applications where a temporary hold is needed. For instance, they can be used for masking edges when painting walls or trim using a low-tack frame tape. Or for installing fixtures, where low tack tape can hold pieces in position while you make adjustments. 

High Tack Adhesive Explained 

High tack has a strong adhesive and immediate bonding capacity. This means it can form a strong bond with any surface in an instant and doesn’t peel as easily as low tack. Plus, you can stick and unstick your tape many times without wearing it down. 

High-tack adhesive is often used in tapes, as well as in glue and sealants due to its strong grip. They may leave behind residue when removed; however, you can find residue-free variants. 

High tack tapes can be handy during construction or renovation works, such as: 

Temporary floor protection installation 

High tack tape can hold boards or coverings in place without slipping or shifting. Take this Floorgard Vinyl Tape, for instance. It’s a heavy-duty yet inexpensive high-tack vinyl tape suitable for keeping your Floorgard Corry Board intact even in high traffic areas. 

Sealing gaps 

High-tack tapes can create a strong barrier against air and moisture in siding, roofing, and around windows, to name a few. A great example of this is duck tape, which is known for its strong adhesive properties. A reinforced tape is your best bet if you want something stronger than duct tape. It’s great for general use that requires extra adhesive grip. Overall, high-tack adhesives are ideal for use in construction, insulation, and repairs, where a dependable seal is crucial. 

Securing heavy materials 

High tack tapes are excellent for holding plywood or drywall in place before securing them with nails or screws. They provide durable hold without marking permanent marks or damage on surfaces—no need for additional tools to do so! 

Understanding the differences between low tack and high tack adhesives helps you choose the right tape for your project needs. If you’re looking for less tacky, low tack tapes are your best bet. Opt for high tack if you need something super tacky. 

Other tapes are also used in construction, renovation, and general purposes, but for different purposes. Read this guide, 'The Builder’s Guide to Different Tapes,' for more information. 

For inquiries, contact us at hello@s-pgroup.com or call +44 (028) 9442 8611. SP Group is a temporary floor protection and scaffold protection supplier based in the UK and Ireland.