Construction tapes just get tougher and stickier, and harder to cut and harder to peel away from the roll. Here’s a trick I use to make both tasks easier. As shown in the drawing, I pull back a flap of tape and slip the blade of a single-edge razor under it. The tape sticks to the blade, giving me a handle on the tape when I’m ready to unroll some of it. Then I peel off the razor, use it to cut the tape, and stick the razor back in place until needed again.
To prevent moisture buildup and improve performance, install a continuous air barrier—such as drywall or specialized membranes—under tongue-and-groove boards or other interior wall paneling.
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.
Start Free Trial NowGet instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.
Start Free Trial Now
View Comments
i did that a few times years back until the blade cut itself free and almost sliced my hand open in a bucket of gear. you also need to safely dispose of the used blade that's still good or find a new roll when you run out and don't need more at the moment.
the best method i've found is to stick the tape back down a quarter to half an inch off parallel to to the roll. the stagger takes a little bit of sussing out and varies on each variety and width of tape. you want enough stagger to leave a little over hang of sticky to grab onto, but not so much that you create a crease in the tape and waste a few inches or let the overhang get so dirty that it can't be used. letting the stagger run longer along the roll will reduce creasing.