What tape is used for seams on tarps?

[Flatliner]

Sorry for so basic of a question but what is the tape used to seal seams on tarps, tents, etc and where can I buy a roll?

[MAD777]

Tarps are made from several different materials including, but not limited to, nylon, polyester, Cuben, tyvek, polycro, etc. Each material requires a different tape and different seam sealers.

What kind of tarp do you have?

[jolunder]

Depends on the material used to build the object in question, but I've only seen tape on clothing. For tarps and tents I think it's mostly exclusive liquid seam sealer, except for cuben. Others correct me if I'm wrong. Most here use tarps made of silnylon, where you would wanna use silicone. But for a different material you got to use a different sealer, others can give more and better info on this I'm sure.

[nothermark]

I think I have seen seam sealed tents but the tape used is activated with one of the sealing head technologies. Could be heat, RF or ultrasonic. None of them are common household items. ;-)

If you are working with Cuben there is a double sided tape to use instead of sewing.

[IRONFISH45]

Some place in my online shopping I found some tape to seal my nylon with I could not get it applied neatly, and it needed a bonding agent applied. Plus it was expensive to play with. Not for beginners nor people without a lot of practice.

Decide what type of material you are working with then you will receive a better answer. There are as stated above many different ways to seal your project.

[Flatliner]

I am thinking I will use silnylon. My tent appears to have a small superthin clear tape on all the seams. I just assumed that was the right approach. I am however open to options.

[Gravity]

Not tape, but liquid silicone.

From post #15 on this old thread https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...ar-Tarp/page2:

I learned a few important things from a recent project:

- It is best to seal the tarp while it is hanging. This opens up the seams and allows the silicone to penetrate as much as possible.
- Make sure to apply the silicone on the small holes through which the thread penetrates the fabric (aka "the seam").
- It is only necessary to seal the inside. This protects the sealant from the sun's UV rays, so it will last longer.
- Use Permatex or VersaChem flowable silicone. This is sold in auto-parts stores to seal windshields. It costs about five bucks.
- Keep the tarp hung for 24 hours, at which point the sealant will be fully cured (per the package instructions)
- After the seam is fully cured, you may apply some talcum powder or cornstarch to reduce the stickiness.

I hope this helps.

[MAD777]

The common method for silnylon is to mix one part silicone with four parts mineral spirits. Mix it very well and apply with an artist's paintbrush or small foam brush. Set up the tarp fully staked out so the tension will open up the stitch holes, then apply. Some people do both the inside and outside, others just do one side.

The cheapest option is GE 100% silicone in tubes from Walmart.

[SilvrSurfr]

I have a couple of poly tarps with taped seams. Every Coleman tent I ever owned had taped seams. However, the tape is not very durable and I think liquid sealants work better.

[Flatliner]

Thank you guys, that is VERY helpful. I am anxious to give it a try.