Repairs Using Duct Tape: Do’s and Don’ts

Duct tape has been used to fix many things. But there are some do’s and don’ts when it comes to duct tape use.

Don’t Use Duct Tape for Electrical Repairs

Some people use duct tape for splicing two pieces of electrical wiring. While it gets the job done, it will be very difficult for the next electrician to perform repairs. Unless you’re performing emergency repairs, stop any electrical repair that you’re doing, and buy some electrician’s tape.

Do Use Duct Tape to Fix a Tent

Always have a roll of duct tape when you go camping. Duct tape can create an emergency watertight patch if your camping tent happens to have a hole in it. It can also be used as temporary leak repair for small holes in a boat or canoe; water pressure will help keep the tape in place while you use the boat.

Don’t Use Duct Tape on Unsuitable Surfaces

As versatile as duct tape can be, it’s not suitable for use on certain surfaces. Oil and moisture affects the adhesive side of duct tape, which means it works best on clean and dry surfaces. Surfaces that get too hot or too cold can affect the adhesive. At 140 degrees, adhesive can soften to the point where duct tape can lose its strength. Freezing temperatures can turn adhesive brittle.

Do Use Duct Tape for Emergency Car Repairs

Always have a roll of duct tape in your glove compartment or car toolbox. It can be used to prevent a crack on the windshield from worsening, to temporarily attach a rear view mirror or to keep a trunk lid shut until you can get to a repair shop.

Don’t Use Duct Tape for Fixing HVAC Refrigerant Hoses

You might be tempted to patch a leaking refrigerant hose in your air conditioner. The problem is that refrigerant is an oily substance that will eventually defeat the adhesive on the duct tape. Also, air conditioners need a certain amount of refrigerant cycling through it in order to work properly, which means refrigerant lost to a leak has to be replaced. Patching up refrigerant hoses is a short-term fix at best.

Duct tape is, indeed, a great temporary fix for many problems. However, some of these problems are best left to professionals. Call Handyman Connection® of Mason at (513) 733-3777. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.