People have, for so long, crossed swords about whether regular masking tape can be a substitute for painter’s tape. Masking Tape Vs Painters Tape – Is there any difference between them, if yes, what exactly is it? What are all the opinions about? And how can you choose a tape that perfectly matches your personal preference? The answers are ready right here.

Masking Tape Vs Painters Tape – Detailed Comparison And How-to Guide

Do They Share Anything In Common?

Do They Share Anything In CommonYes. Masking tape and painter’s tape do share some standard features.

Most tapes available on the market are manufactured with a crepe paper backing. You can thus easily tear by hand and write labels on them.

For making crisp and straight lines, both tapes can do the job with similar effectiveness.

The usage of both tapes is simple, just roll out the tape and apply it on the surface you want to mask.

What Are The Differences?

What Are The DifferencesKnowing what stands them out of each other is the key to your buying decision. Here are all the most worth-noticing differences between making tape and painter’s tape.

Residue

Simply speaking, masking tape is more sticky when applied, given the same amount of pressure as painter’s tape. Between the two options, masking tape comes with a higher level of adhesion. Some masking tapes out there are even water-based, making the residue stay for a longer time.

Painter’s tape, on the other hand, does not come with the main purpose of sticking something strong. It is more versatile, giving you more freedom in designing and painting patterns on a surface.

This tape normally has a light or medium residue, just enough to peel easily while still keeping the paint finish in proper lines and shapes.

Price

Masking tape is generally cheaper; it is available in most convenient stores or supermarkets. In case your budget is a significant factor to consider, and if you already have experiences in house/ wall/ furniture painting, masking tape can be a cost-effective alternative.

Ease Of Removal

This feature is what painter’s tapes are designed for. Masking tape thus has no way to win in this category. And because of its strong adhesiveness, the longer you let the masking tape sit, the longer it residues on the surface.

Having the tape too sticky is very tricky to solve. Imagine trying to rip off the tape and end up ripping off a piece of wall surface as well? No, you don’t want that nightmare.

Using painter’s tape is much easier when it comes to peeling. It saves a lot of your time and effort, and it never leaves marks or lifts paint after peeling. Painter’s tape, in short, is much less harmful to the surface. Even when you leave it for an extended period of time, it still keeps all the paint contours.

Ability To Prevent Paint Bleeding

Most commercial masking tapes cannot handle paint bleeding. It has difficulty in guarding the surface; the result normally comes out hit and miss.

And even though the painter’s tape is less tacky, it is better at sealing off the surface coating. The flexibility is also better in painter’s tape. You can even bend it without any wearing; it does not buckle or pucker while being painted on.

Is Painter’s Tape Better Than Masking Tape?

Better Than Masking TapeThe answer depends on the circumstance; each tape type has its own pros and cons. But as we are supposed to talk about painting at the moment, the easy answer is yes.

No paint-bleeding, easy to remove and adjust, and clean surface coating; these are what painter’s tape does better. And as these features align closer to what you want in painting, painter’s tape is eligible to be the winner.

See Also: Best 10 Ideas for Using Painters Tape Wall Designs

How To Choose A Tape That Best Fits Your Need

How To Choose A Tape That Best Fits Your NeedLook At The Pros And Cons
Let’s make it short and sweet; masking tape is cheaper, more durable and longer residue. Painter’s tape is easier to peel, cleaner coating, and better at preventing paint-bleeding.

Say if you want that complicated zigzag pattern on the window glass and make sure the paint goes perfectly, painter’s tape will be the choice.

And if you want to bond dissimilar materials or have more structural strength, masking tape can do the work.

Consider Your Budget

Masking tape does less harm to your budget, but maybe more damage to your paint finish. With that being said, we are not trying to lure you in choosing one over another because of its price or performance.

But if the challenge is accepted, you will need more effort manipulating the masking tape. For example, if you don’t want it to have strong residue, apply it gently and remove it as soon as possible. Also, beware of the surface, if it is too sloppy, the brush should go quick with a light amount of paint.

Scrutinize Your Painting Preference

So the question is “What do you want your tape to do well?”. Should it offer a strong sticking/glueing effect or flexible peeling? Should or should it not be able to withstand the application of paint? Should it be durable sealing or versatile sealing? Align your answers to the features of the tape and make your buying decision.

Tips To Making The Best Use Out Of Tapes

Tips To Making The Best Use Out Of Tapes

  • Clean the surface, especially the mouldings before taping.
  • Test the tape on an inconspicuous surface to check its adhesiveness and damage (if any).
  • Use a tape applicator for more precise measurement and angle prediction.
  • Don’t stretch the tapes when applying them to avoid poor adhesion and breaks.
  • When painting, brush a thin line of paint along the edge of the tape. It will add another sealing layer to prevent paint-bleeding.
  • Score the tape before peeling to make sure it comes off cleanly.

Read More: Wall Paint Design Ideas With Tape

All Things Considered

Masking Tape Vs Painters Tape – you set the rule, the winner is up to you to decide. And as long as it helps get the job done, it is good to roll. But if they are in the “painting battle”, painter’s tape is proved to be a promising candidate, roll it on.