Tape is an essential household item. Versatile and suitable for countless applications, it is always helpful to have high-quality tape on hand. In terms of DIY projects and odd jobs, two major variations are common – painter’s tape and masking tape. While the two may appear similar on the surface, fundamental differences do exist.
While painter’s tape is a specialised form of masking tape, the primary differences surround application, purpose, feel, adhesive strength and cost. Before you undertake your next home project, it is important to know exactly what you are buying and what style of tape works best.
With this in mind, let’s dive into a quick rundown of everything you need to know about painter’s and masking tape.
Painter’s Tape – Key Applications
Essentially all painter’s tape falls under the umbrella of masking tape. However, the most known form masking tape is the off-white style you will likely know well. Painter’s tape is also made with the same crepe paper material and produced at a similar weight.
The key difference here lies in their appearance, quality and cost. You will generally find this style in the form of blue masking tape. Blue masking tape and other colour variations are favoured by commercial painters and artists for its excellent adhesive quality and long-lasting performance. In addition, many also favour it for regular household DIY application.
Benefits & Disadvantages
For larger commercial and household jobs, painter’s tape will typically be your best option. Any work involving painting will naturally require higher quality tape. Going down this path will allow you to leave the area unattended without concern and perform a clean removal without marks and lines.
Of course, blue masking tape/painter’s tape comes at a slightly higher average cost. This is generally only a concern when large quantities are involved. In the context of daily DIY housework, the added cost is usually worth it.
Masking Tape – Key Applications
In contrast to coloured painter’s tape, what is commonly known as ‘masking tape’ is typically available in its signature off-white colour. Masking tape has been in common use for decades, with primary applications including labels, minor fixes, binding objects, rips and concealing. As its name suggests, it can ‘mask’ issues in quick fashion.
Benefits & Disadvantages
Common household masking tape is easy to write on and easy to rip. Such features make it a popular choice for simple, quick fixes and labelling. Your run of the mill masking tape is also generally sold at a lower price than coloured painter’s tape.
Disadvantages of regular masking tape can include a lower quality adhesive. This can result in the tape coming off or even leaving a mark on the surface area. In this case, your selection will depend upon the type of surfaces you are dealing with.
Similarities
At the core, painter’s and masking tape have several key similarities. Both are:
- Simple and easy to tear
- Easy to write on and label
- Able to create straight lines
- Made from a crepe paper base
- Used for general household work
Differences
Aside from a slight variation in cost, the major differences between the two lies in their adhesive quality. While painter’s tape can be left on a surface for days without concern, common masking tape must be removed within a short time span. In addition, cheaper masking tape can also peel up paint and allow water-based paint to seep through.
Blue masking tape is not only easier to find, but also purpose designed to address the pitfalls of generic tape. For this reason, commercial contractors and tradesmen favour coloured painter’s tape in this specific style.
Blue Masking Tape
If your DIY or professional job revolves around walls and timber, blue masking tape is the natural choice. Blue painter’s tape can guarantee crisp and clean lines across the surface area. Additionally, it will directly prevent mishaps by ensuring that the paint only goes exactly where it is needed.
For a high-quality professional finish, blue variations consistently outperform generic off-white masking tape. Of course, this will ultimately depend upon the size and scale of the project. Although the cost may be generally higher, blue masking tape is still affordable and represents excellent value for money.
