Understanding Non Skid and Anti Slip Tapes

Tape Jungle offers a vast selection of tapes in various types to match all your needs, including tapes that help with safety.

You may not think about tape when it comes to safety, but there are many ways it can be a helpful tool. For example, anti slip tape is a specialized product with a textured surface. It can go on almost any flooring and is an easy way to make slick surfaces safer.

What Are Anti Slip and Non Skid Tapes?

Anti slip tape — also called non skid or anti skid tape — provides traction on slippery surfaces. It is constructed with a specific style to ensure its effectiveness.

Anti slip tape has a grit top that provides grip. The material used for the surface can withstand use without breaking down or becoming smooth too quickly.

There are texture options to meet different needs. Some situations may require a light abrasive surface, such as the bottom of a bathtub, while others call for something rougher, such as a ramp outside a loading dock.

The base of the tape is typically a polymer substrate or PVC. It provides strength and a smooth surface for building the tape.

The backing adhesive is just as important as the abrasive top because it keeps the tape in place once you apply it. It has to be strong enough to hold the tape firmly down to prevent peeling, curling, or slipping, and it also needs to be moisture-resistant.

Applications and Uses

Anti-skid tape has common uses in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

Residential

Residential uses may include:

• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Garages
• Indoor and outdoor steps
• Patios or decks
• Pool areas

Most homes are hotbeds for slipping hazards, from rain-slippery decks to garage floors covered in dust from woodworking projects. Anti slip tape helps you keep your family safe inside and out when slippery surfaces pose a risk.

Commercial

Common hazards in commercial areas include:

• Building entrances
• Outdoor steps
• Kitchen or dining areas

Businesses have an obligation to protect employees and members of the public who come into their facilities. Slippery floors are a constant concern anytime it rains or snows. And some businesses, such as restaurants, may also need added protection in work areas due to water, oil, or debris.

Industrial

Industrial sites have to focus on safety due to the many hazards that naturally exist in this environment. Still, it can be easy to overlook the issues lurking on the ground.

Anti slip tape can be helpful on loading docks, uneven surfaces, ramps, and stairs. It's also a great safety tool for construction sites, where mud often creates fall hazards. For example, a bit of tape on the steps of a dozer can make a huge difference in the safety of the workers getting on and off equipment throughout the workday.

Benefits of Using Anti Slip and Non Skid Tapes

Anti slip tapes have a few significant benefits, no matter their application. Understanding these benefits can help you get the most out of this kind of tape.

Enhanced Safety and Prevention of Slips and Falls

Perhaps the biggest benefit is the security that floor marking tape can offer. This kind of tape works indoors or outdoors and is very resistant to substances that often degrade other tapes. This resilience means users get the textured floor surface they are seeking.

Some of these tapes are also manufactured to glow in low-light situations, allowing the tape to act as a warning signal. Plus, sizing is customizable, and many options meet Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards.

Durability and Longevity in Various Environments

Anti slip tapes are also incredibly durable. They are resistant to chemicals and other substances, such as oil or grease. Their heavy-duty adhesive stays in place and doesn't degrade easily, so they will stand up even under heavy traffic or in adverse weather when used outdoors.

This type of safety tape can be used in a variety of environments and on many kinds of surfaces, such as concrete or wood. It will adhere even when other types of tape won't.

Easy Installation and Maintenance

One key benefit of this floor tape is its ease of use. Installation requires only a few simple steps. Plus, it's easy to cut to size and adheres almost anywhere.

Most tapes require little care after installation. You can spray off dirty tape and let it air dry. And once the texture wears down, you can just replace it.

Cost-Effectiveness

Non skid tape is very cost-effective. It is much more affordable than other measures — such as resurfacing floors — to ensure safety on slick floors. It's also long-lasting, so you get a lot for your money.

Types of Anti Slip and Non Skid Tapes

Tape Jungle sells a range of anti slip tapes. Here is a look at just some of the products we offer.

Anti Slip Tape Sure-Step Series (69020)

This Sure-Step tape offers high traction. It's waterproof and has a PVC backing. Texture options include silicone carbide (on the black tape) or aluminum oxide (on the colored tape). The back has an acrylic adhesive coating and comes with a white siliconized paper liner.

This safety tape works well for indoor and outdoor areas with irregular surfaces. It is commonly used in industrial settings or other work areas, providing great traction in the most demanding settings.

The bright color options are also ideal for areas requiring high visibility to ensure people recognize hazards and use caution.

It comes in pre-slit strips in the following colors:

• Black
• Translucent (clear)
• Gray
• White
• Red
• Orange
• Yellow
• Dark green
• Dark blue

You can choose from  high-visibility fluorescent red, orange, yellow, or black/yellow striped tape in various sizes.

Non Skid Safety Strips-Cleats

These non skid safety tape strips are great for steps and ladders. They also work well around the pool and can make a great addition to skateboards.

They come in 12- to 200-strip packs of 6" x 24" with rounded edges. The primary use of this tape is to enhance walkers' safety in various settings.

The  safety tape strips also come in other sizes. In a box of 10, you can get strips that are 12" long in widths of 1," 2," or 4." The only color option for this product is black.

Choosing the Right Tape for Your Needs

While anti slip tape is incredibly useful, it works best when you choose the right type for your needs. Consider the amount of foot traffic in the area, any potential substances that might come into play, and whether you will use it inside or outside.

When making your decision, consider the tape's different features. Always read the specifications of the tape you are considering.

Adhesive Qualities

Think about the adhesive type. Will it work for the flooring you have? The tape must adhere properly and stay in place. Choosing the wrong adhesive could render the tape less useful and even make it a safety hazard if it doesn't adhere firmly.

Read any instructions that come with the tape so you can take the proper steps to prep the surface area. Not preparing the surface can diminish the quality of the adhesive bond.

Sizing

This tape comes in a variety of lengths and widths. You can cut it down to size, but it helps to choose the size that offers the best fit to avoid having to piece together strips. Using a larger strip to cover a space is better because it reduces the chances of edges coming up over time.

Take careful measurements of the area before you start shopping for tape. To be safe, add about an inch to your measurements. Always measure at least twice for accuracy.

Texture

You also want to consider the tape's texture. Some tapes are smoother than others, and each type of texture has its uses. Make sure you know what level of texture will best meet your needs. For example, if you have an oily surface, you'll want the roughest texture to provide the most protection against slippery substances.

OSHA Compliance

If you buy tape for business use, make sure it meets all relevant OSHA requirements. The tape's properties list will provide this information.

Color

Finally, think about the color choices. Standard black or gray is the most common, but colored tapes are better in some situations. For example, if you need high visibility, consider fluorescent tape. This also works well in low-light areas where bright colors are easier to see than darker colors.

Installation Guide

Installing anti slip tape is a relatively straightforward process. You won't need many tools beyond something to cut the strips with to ensure they fit well into your space. You will also need cleaning supplies to prepare the area.

Step 1: Prepare the Area

For the best adhesion, apply the tape to a smooth surface. Fill in any cracks or porous areas. Don't apply the tape over grout lines, as it will not adhere correctly.

The tape also requires a clean surface. You want to remove any traces of oil, water, or other chemicals. If there is flaking paint or dust on the surface, be sure to clean that up. The surface must be completely dry and clean before you apply the tape to avoid adhesion issues. Alcohol is an excellent cleaning solution that should remove anything that could be problematic.

Before you start the application, make sure the surface temperature is not below 55 degrees. The adhesive may have difficulties adhering in low temperatures.

Step 2: Cut to Size

The next step before installing the tape is making sure it's the right size. You can use whatever tool you feel works best to cut the strips to the proper measurements. Always measure at least twice before you make a cut on the strips. Rounding the corners can help prevent early wear and peeling of the edges.

Keep in mind that full coverage of an area will often provide the best anti-slip protection, but not every application requires full coverage. For example, when applying tape on stairs, the strips often go only on the edges.

Step 3: Apply the Tape

Now, you are ready to apply the tape to the floor. You will need to remove the backing, which you can do either all at once or as you apply. If you remove the backing all at once, be careful not to touch the adhesive with your fingers. Oils from your skin can diminish its properties.

If you want to remove the backing as you apply the tape, pull off one side, apply the tape to the floor, and then pull the backing slowly off as you continue to apply the rest of the tape's length to the floor.

When applying the tape to the floor, make sure it is smooth. You will need to apply pressure, pressing from the center of the strip to the edges to get rid of air bubbles and ensure flat adhesion. You can use a rubber roller for a tighter bond.

Use and Maintenance Tips

Once the tape is in place, the area can be used immediately; no curing time is required.

To keep the tape in the best condition, keep the area clean. Use a mild detergent or simply rinse the area of debris as needed.

Regularly check the tape for wear. When it starts to lose its texture, you should replace it.

Tape Jungle Meets Your Anti Slip Tape Needs

Anti slip and non skid tapes are some of the easiest-to-use and most affordable safety tools on the market. A few strips of this tape can make a huge difference in removing hazards that can result in serious falls and other accidents that may result from slippery surfaces.

Tape Jungle offers high-quality options for non-slip tapes that meet a variety of needs. You can trust us as your ultimate tape shop.

Contact us today to learn more about our products and to place your order.