Here are a few factors to consider when choosing the fight flagship tape.
Modified Bitumen, Butyl, or Acrylic
Modified Bitumen is the most cost-effective flashing tape, making it the most common choice among contractors. It is a mixture of petroleum, synthetic rubber, and asphalt. It will dry out over time.
Butyl flashing tape is a self-adhering tape. Butyl is waterproof and seals joints and gaps around windows and doors. Some butyl tapes stay flexible in the cold and stable in high temperatures.
Acrylic flashing tape has the best self-adhesive technology. It will last longer than the other tapes, it is also the most expensive.
UV Protection
If the window or door will be exposed to the Sun for long periods, find a flashing tape with UV protection built into it. It prevents certain tapes from degrading and becoming less effective in the sun.
Temperature
Consider what weather and temperature your home or building will be exposed to. Modified bitumen tape does not hold up well in cold weather. It loses its stick around 50℉ and does not stick well below about 40℉. The best choice is a butyl or acrylic-based tape.
Modified bitumen does not do well in extreme heat either; it will start to ooze. Butyl tapes perform better at higher temperatures but have limits. Unless the flashing tape is formulated for high temperatures, it will soften at temperatures between 120℉ and 180℉; others can perform over 200℉. You may need to contact the manufacturer directly if it does not publish the highest temperature value, or you may need to look for another product that does.
Flashing tape is applied over the rough opening of the window, which will eventually be covered by siding. Cover all sides, tops, bottoms, and corners. Corner tape should be cut at 45-degree angles to allow for folding over and flush with the window. To create a 100% water-resistant barrier, overlap the tap on all corners. When installing flashing tape, ensure your window or door is the right size and the tape covers the whole seam.
If the tape is not installed perfectly, you will face problems years later. If it wears away, you will have water damage from the leak. If you are not 100% sure you can install the tape on your own, call a professional.
Flashing tape helps prevent water damage and keeps air from leaking in or out. Find out which tape fits your living situation. Make sure the tape is installed perfectly to avoid problems down the road.
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