Double‑sided tapes are an indispensable tool across industries—from light‑duty graphics mounting to heavy structural bonding. At Adhesive Tapes Direct, our extensive range means there’s a tape perfectly suited to your substrate, environment, and load requirements. This guide will walk you through the main double sided tape constructions, adhesive types, and application tips, with real product examples to help you choose with confidence.
1. Understanding Tape Constructions and Adhesives
Double‑sided tapes differ in both their carrier material and adhesive type.
- Carrier Materials:
- Tissue (paper)—ultra‑thin and hand‑tearable for paper, fabric & display mounting.
- Film & Polyester—transparent, temperature‑resistant, ideal for laminating and mounting plastics.
- Foam (PE or acrylic foam)—conforms to irregular surfaces and cushions shear loads.
- Cloth—strong woven backing with good quick‑stick; suited for temporary holds and assembly aids.
- Adhesive Types:
- Acrylic Adhesives—excellent ageing, UV, solvent and temperature resistance (e.g. Double Sided Polyester Tape).
- Rubber Adhesives—high initial tack for quick stick but more temporary (e.g. Double Sided Cloth Tape).
2. Tape Types & When to Use Them
2.1 Double‑Sided Tissue Tape
Best for: Paper, light fabrics, signage and nameplates.
- Hand‑tearable for fast application without tools.
- Thin profile keeps layers inconspicuous.
- High‑strength long‑life acrylic adhesive.
Explore Double‑Sided Tissue Tape
2.2 Double‑Sided Polyester Tape
Best for: Mounting plastics, foams, rubbers and low‑energy surfaces.
- Transparent carrier with solvent acrylic adhesive.
- Withstands high temperatures, solvents, UV and chemicals.
Explore Double‑Sided Polyester Tape
2.3 Double‑Sided PE Foam Tape
Best for: Irregular or contoured surfaces—nameplates, kitchen fittings, mirrors.
- Closed‑cell cross‑linked foam resists water absorption.
- High tack for secure bonding; good insulation and shear strength.
Explore Double‑Sided PE Foam Tape
2.4 Acribond High Bond Double‑Sided Acrylic Foam Tape
Looking for a great 3M double sided tape alternative? We got you covered with our Acribond range.
Best for: Heavy‑duty structural bonding—signs, metal panels, automotive mouldings.
- High strength, conformable foam backing.
- Exceptional UV, solvent and weather resistance.
Explore Acribond High Bond Acrylic Foam Tapes
2.5 Double‑Sided Cloth Tape
Best for: Temporary holding during assembly, cable management, rough surfaces.
- Economical hot‑melt rubber adhesive for quick stick.
- Strong woven backing withstands abrasion.
Explore Double‑Sided Cloth Tape
3. Key Considerations for Your Application
- Substrate Type & Surface Energy
- Smooth, clean plastics vs. rough concrete or low‑energy PE require different adhesive choices.
- Environmental Conditions
- Indoor vs. outdoor, UV exposure, temperature extremes—acrylic adhesives excel in harsh conditions; rubber adhesives suit quick, temporary fixes.
- Load & Lifespan
- Light graphics or poster mounting? Tissue or film tape is ideal. Heavy facades or permanent joints? Acrylic foam is a strong double side tape that offers structural strength.
- Tape Thickness & Coverage
- Thicker tapes (foam) absorb irregularities; thin tapes (tissue, film) deliver neat, low‑profile bonds.
- Ease of Use
- Hand‑tearable tapes (tissue) vs. dispensers or knives—choose for speed and convenience.
4. Expert Application Tips
- Surface Prep: Clean with IPA or specialised cleaners; abrade if necessary to remove coatings.
- Pressure: Apply firm, even pressure—use rollers for foam tapes to ensure full contact.
- Dwell Time: Allow adhesives to cure; many acrylic tapes reach full strength after 24–72 hours.
- Temperature: Apply in recommended ranges (usually 15–35 °C) for optimal wet‑out.
5. Why Shop Double‑Sided Tape at Adhesive Tapes Direct?
- Unrivalled Selection: From budget tissue to premium structural tapes. Great alternatives to 3M tapes.
- Competitive Pricing: Bulk discounts across the range.
- Trusted Brands: Husky Tape, Acribond, Kikusui and more.
- Fast Australia‑Wide Delivery: Get your supplies when you need them.
- Satisfaction Guarantee: Money‑back promise if you’re not completely happy.
Ready to find the perfect double‑sided tape for your project? Browse our full Double‑Sided Tape collection today and tape with confidence!
