Tack level of an application tape, whether it is a low tuck tape or a high tack tape, simply refers to how sticky its adhesive is. Most of the tape manufacturers are fond of using standard grade application tapes and these never feature high tuck adhesives.
High tack adhesives are the preferred choice for applications involving general sign works and plotter-cut lettering. In as much as high tuck tapes are ideal for most of the sign applications, they may not be the recommended option when considering applications such as:
- Banner applications and applications involving large to medium sized lettering. In this case, medium tack or low tack application tapes would be the most suitable.
- Large format digital prints – for such applications, high tack tapes should be replaced with low tack application tapes.
- For transferring wall graphics and transferring frosted window graphic films as well as other types of textured films.
It is sad to note that most sign makers, as well as other professionals who need tape applications, generally struggle when attempting to choose the right tape tack level, and thus ending up making mistakes that would have been avoided if they had known exactly what to do at the outset. To help you out and ensure you make the right choice most of the time, here are some general rules you can follow as a rough guide:
- If you are dealing with smaller graphics, then always go for high tack application tapes. The smaller the graphics, the higher the tack level.
- If you are dealing with big graphics, go for low tack application tapes. The bigger the graphics, the lower the tack level.
- If you are not certain on which tack level to go for, then simply use the lowest tack application tape to get the job done.
Hopefully, this gives you a brief guide on what you need to do in order to choose the right application tack level for your tasks.
