{"id":2682,"date":"2022-07-07T17:28:55","date_gmt":"2022-07-07T17:28:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/?p=2682"},"modified":"2023-01-12T12:17:54","modified_gmt":"2023-01-12T12:17:54","slug":"will-duct-tape-damage-car-paint","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/general\/will-duct-tape-damage-car-paint\/","title":{"rendered":"Will Duct Tape Damage Car Paint? (With Alternatives)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Sometimes you find yourself in a jam and may be hoping to use duct tape as a quick fix for a car concern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But will duct tape damage car paint? In this article, we consider whether this nifty material does more harm than good, and suggest a few alternatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Will-Duct-Tape-Damage-Car-Paint-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Will Duct Tape Damage Car Paint\" class=\"wp-image-2683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Will-Duct-Tape-Damage-Car-Paint-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Will-Duct-Tape-Damage-Car-Paint-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Will-Duct-Tape-Damage-Car-Paint-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Will-Duct-Tape-Damage-Car-Paint-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Will-Duct-Tape-Damage-Car-Paint.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_71 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\"><p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Contents<\/p>\n<\/div><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/general\/will-duct-tape-damage-car-paint\/#Will_Duct_Tape_Damage_Car_Paint\" title=\"Will Duct Tape Damage Car Paint?\">Will Duct Tape Damage Car Paint?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/general\/will-duct-tape-damage-car-paint\/#What_Does_Duct_Tape_Do_to_Car_Paint\" title=\"What Does Duct Tape Do to Car Paint?\">What Does Duct Tape Do to Car Paint?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/general\/will-duct-tape-damage-car-paint\/#How_To_Remove_Duct_Tape_Residue_off_Car_Paint\" title=\"How To Remove Duct Tape Residue off Car Paint\">How To Remove Duct Tape Residue off Car Paint<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/general\/will-duct-tape-damage-car-paint\/#What_Tape_Is_Safe_for_Car_Paint\" title=\"What Tape Is Safe for Car Paint?\">What Tape Is Safe for Car Paint?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Will_Duct_Tape_Damage_Car_Paint\"><\/span><a><\/a>Will Duct Tape Damage Car Paint?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Often relied upon in the auto shop, duct tape makes repair jobs easier by holding up car bumpers or other auto parts as the vehicle is repaired.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As such, it should come as no surprise that, <strong>unless it needs a new paint job, duct tape by itself doesn\u2019t damage the paint.<\/strong> Rather, it\u2019s often a careless and hasty <a href=\"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/smells-clean\/how-to-remove-scratches-from-car-windows-common-causes-and-diy-solutions\/\">removal of its residue that ends up leaving scratches<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_Duct_Tape_Do_to_Car_Paint\"><\/span><a><\/a>What Does Duct Tape Do to Car Paint?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>On its own, duct tape does nothing directly to car paint apart from adhering to it. The exception to this is if the car needs a new coat, in which case the paint could flake or peel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Otherwise, duct tape will often leave behind a layer of sticky residue, requiring careful removal to prevent further damage. <strong>Improper removal, such as the use of a metal scraper or sandpaper, runs the risk of marking the paint. <\/strong>The adhesive on duct tape is built to last, so the extent of the damage depends on how long the tape is left on the car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The weather may also affect duct tape\u2019s adhesive. Intense heat may cause the glue to melt, adhering it further to the car. If it rains or gets wet and gets a chance to dry, the adhesive will harden, bonding firmly with whatever surface it is on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_To_Remove_Duct_Tape_Residue_off_Car_Paint\"><\/span><a><\/a>How To Remove Duct Tape Residue off Car Paint<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some tips on getting duct tape residue off your car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a>Equipment Needed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a few things you may need to get rid of that sticky residue, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Water<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A cleaning solvent<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plastic card (rather than metal scraper)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hair dryer<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a>Method One: Using a Solvent or Alcohol<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This method can be done with either rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover, although rubbing alcohol is usually already on hand. You\u2019ll need to be careful with how much you apply and ensure you\u2019re gentle during the removal process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alternatively, you can use a <strong>cleaning solvent<\/strong> such as <a href=\"https:\/\/googone.com\/automotive\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Goo <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/googone.com\/automotive\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gone\u2019s automotive<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/googone.com\/automotive\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> rang<\/a>e. This option is the most professional method when it comes to cleaning off adhesive glue without damaging a paint job. Any cleaning solvent will do, so long as it\u2019s specifically catered to auto-body care, as it will soften the adhesive without corroding or rusting the vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With this method, you\u2019ll need to do the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\" type=\"1\">\n<li>Apply a few drops of the solvent or alcohol to areas with sticky adhesive glue.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Let the car soak for several minutes, allowing the glue to soften.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Using a clean rag, gently rub the adhesive and solvent until both are gone. There should be no traces left.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember to be gentle if using alcohol as opposed to a professional solvent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Will-Duct-Tape-Damage-Car-Paint2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Will Duct Tape Damage Car Paint\" class=\"wp-image-2684\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Will-Duct-Tape-Damage-Car-Paint2-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Will-Duct-Tape-Damage-Car-Paint2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Will-Duct-Tape-Damage-Car-Paint2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Will-Duct-Tape-Damage-Car-Paint2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Will-Duct-Tape-Damage-Car-Paint2.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a>Method Two: Warm Water and Plastic Scraper<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This option is the next safest method for preserving a paint job. A cloth rag is still effective for adhesive removal, but a scraper will do a better job. You can use a plastic scraper or card; anything with a soft edge runs a lower risk of scratching the paint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Using warm water and a scraper, do the following steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\" type=\"1\">\n<li>Soak a rag in hot water.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Place the rag on the sticky surface, leaving it pressed against the car for approximately fifteen minutes. The longer, the better\u2014if duct tape has been used on the car for an extended period, the adhesive will be harder.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Remove the rag after letting it soak the adhesive for a short period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Using a plastic scraper or a different rag, wipe the surface gently until it\u2019s clean and dry.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a>Method Three: Heat and Plastic Scraper<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Although a time-consuming method, it\u2019s the least risky for a vehicle\u2019s paint job, as there are no liquids that may affect coloration during the soaking or removal process. You can use a heater, hair dryer, or any equipment that emits hot air.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A scraper is necessary for this method. Plastic is still recommended, as it runs less risk of scratching the paint. With this method, you\u2019ll need to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\" type=\"1\">\n<li>Turn on the heating device.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hold it to the adhesive for about a minute.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gently scrape the softened glue.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Repeat steps 1-3 in a gentle rhythm. Don\u2019t forcefully try removing adhesive, as that could smear it into a mess or scratch the paint.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Tape_Is_Safe_for_Car_Paint\"><\/span><a><\/a>What Tape Is Safe for Car Paint?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkreviews.com\/best-electrical-tape-for-automotive\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A good tape for cars<\/a> is defined by its <strong>ease of removal, flexibility, temperature durability, and the ease with which one can tear it by hand<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a>Alternative One: Blue Painter\u2019s Tape<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find blue painter\u2019s tape at most hardware or art stores. The product is easy to remove and has little to no lingering adhesive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a>Alternative Two: 3M Scotch Super 33+ Premium Grade All-Weather Vinyl Electrical Tape<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/3M-Electrical-75-Inch-66-Feet-Retractable\/dp\/B00VRRY3AI\/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1P68EYUCXBQNS&amp;keywords=3M+Scotch+Super+33%2B+Premium+Grade+All-Weather+Vinyl+Electrical+Tape&amp;qid=1656956451&amp;sprefix=3m+scotch+super+33%2B+premium+grade+all-weather+vinyl+electrical+tape%2Caps%2C709&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;psc=1&amp;spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFURlBHUTc0TFdDUDQmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA4NjcxOTQyTTk5R1JTWE1TQlQmZW5jcnlwdGVkQWRJZD1BMDIyNTA3NDEzQURISTJUTDBETTYmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">This tape<\/a> is compatible with rubber and painted surfaces. It can withstand temperatures over 200 degrees Fahrenheit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a>Alternative Three: 3M 6654 Yellow 36 Mm X 55 M Automotive Refinish Masking Tape<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/3M-6654-Automotive-Refinish-Masking\/dp\/B0036C0PVI\/ref=sr_1_1?crid=59QD2S673351&amp;keywords=3M+6654+Yellow+36+Mm+X+55+M+06654+Automotive+Refinish+Masking+Tape&amp;qid=1656956521&amp;sprefix=3m+6654+yellow+36+mm+x+55+m+06654+automotive+refinish+masking+tape%2Caps%2C290&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">This easily-removable tape<\/a> is strong and durable. It\u2019s heat resistant and is well-priced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a>Alternative Four: Lichamp 5-Pack Automotive Refinish Masking Tape<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lichamp-Automotive-Refinish-Vehicles-Painters\/dp\/B07W72NVP5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">This tape<\/a> is resistant to moisture and is easy to tear off your car without damaging the paint.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Sometimes you find yourself in a jam and may be hoping to use duct tape as a quick fix for a car concern. But will&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":2683,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2682","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-general","wpcat-11-id"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2682"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2682"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2682\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2685,"href":"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2682\/revisions\/2685"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2683"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2682"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2682"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mycarmakesnoise.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2682"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}