Sticking tape to a surface may sound pretty straightforward at first, but it’s a reality that the difference in how one goes about preparation can indeed result in a big difference in terms of outcome. This is because the failure to prepare a surface properly can lead to negative outcomes after the job appears – and in this case it’s certainly only appears – done. Accordingly, now is a good time to detail how to prepare a surface before using Gorilla Tape, so the best possible outcome can be achieved.
Recognising Different Surfaces Can Have Different Requirements
One of the most common mistakes made when it comes to using Gorilla Tape on a surface is the failure to recognise the different nature of different surfaces, and how they interact with tape affixed to them. Gorilla Tape is certainly robust, yet it’s also necessary to recognise that different approaches to its application may be required to be factored in when it comes to different surfaces such as metal, glass, and wood – and potentially, different approaches factored in furthermore depending on the particular types of these materials. For example, while – all other things being equal – a smooth glass surface can be expected to bond with the adhesive of Gorilla Tape well, a wooden surface (while may not be totally smooth) may not.
A Weighty Issue
It’s also important to recognise the different factors surrounding the weight of any items of which the tape is set to bond with. For instance, a heavy wood such as African Ironwood – held to be among the heaviest woods in the world – will present a different weight consideration when using Gorilla Tape than a lighter wood shall. This is critical to consider as – even if the surface is prepared properly before Gorilla Tape is affixed – if the weight of any items it is holding is heavy beyond what the Gorilla Tape can maintain, it will not stay in place.
Using Water And/or Isopropyl Alcohol
Once the fundamentals of different surfaces and weight are in mind and factored in, it’s then time to officially prep the surface. If the surface is a brand new material, then strictly speaking it may be not deemed necessary to prep it – but nonetheless it’s usually prudent to do so. Utilising water and/or isopropyl alcohol is a good way to prep the surface and remove any dirt and debris before looking to bond the adhesive of the Gorilla Tape to it.
Dry Carefully and Thoroughly
After the surface has been cleaned it’s also important to dry it before applying the tape – and remember to ensure the goods use to dry it – such as a cloth – doesn’t once again create any dirt on the surface, or leave behind remnants such as stray cotton fibres which may then diminish the ability of the Gorilla Tape to make a clean and strong application with the surface when applied.
Conclusion
To recap, good adhesive processes using Gorilla Tape require some prior planning beforehand surrounding the unique requirements of a particular surface, and also any weight that must be factored in. Once this has been done, cleaning the surface, and then drying it thoroughly, before applying the Gorilla Tape is vital.