Types & Applications of Glazing Tapes
When you're choosing the right glazing tape for your project, it's important to understand the distinct types and their applications.
Glazing tape is a type of adhesive tape used to secure glass panes in windows and doors, providing a weather-resistant seal and insulation. It typically comes in various thicknesses and widths to accommodate different glazing applications.
In this article we will explore structural spacer glazing tape, butyl glazing tape and security glazing tape, each type has its unique advantages. Choosing the correct type can greatly impact the value and durability of your installations. So which tape suits your project?
Types of Glazing Tapes
Structural Spacer Glazing Tape
Often used in commercial construction (such as low rise buildings, storefronts and schools), structural spacer glazing tapes are an essential component for maintaining the space between glass and the window frame.
These tapes can be made from various materials, including a high-strength, semi-rigid foam core, such as PVC. At AS Rubber our double sided acrylic adhesive coated PVC structural spacer glazing tapes stands out for its open-cell structure which is specifically designed to allow the curing of structural silicones on all sides, ensuring that your building’s glass units stay securely in place.
Spacer glazing tape is designed to handle heavy loads, recover quickly from compression, and mitigate the effects of thermal expansion and contraction, which you'll find important in maintaining the integrity of glass facades.
Structural spacer glazing tape contributes to the overall integrity and longevity of your glazing systems. They manage to balance flexibility with durability, making them perfect for applications where properties are important.
Applications of Structural Spacer Glazing Tape
Curtain Walls: Bonds glass panels to frames in non-load-bearing exterior walls.
Glass Facades and Skylights: Maintains spacing and alignment for large glass surfaces.
Windows and Storefronts: Provides support and stability for frameless glass installations.
Structural Glazing Systems: Supports glass bonding in high-rise buildings, canopies, and railings.
Residential Applications: Supports large glass panels in modern home designs.
Butyl Glazing Tape
Butyl glazing tape, widely used in both residential and commercial construction, offers a versatile sealing solution that's easy to apply. It provides excellent flexibility and sealing properties, making it reliable for weatherproofing windows and doors.
This tape adheres well to most surfaces including wood, metal, and glass, ensuring a durable bond that resists weathering, UV light, and various weather conditions. However, it may not adhere as effectively to certain low-energy surfaces, such as some plastics.
Butyl tape is known for its water-resistant qualities, which prevent moisture penetration that can lead to mould growth and structural damage. Its airtight seal also helps in maintaining energy efficiency in buildings by preventing air leakage. This can greatly reduce heating and cooling costs, making it an economical option for building owners.
Whether you're installing double-glazed windows or sealing glass in challenging weather conditions, butyl glazing tape provides a strong hold and reliable sealing performance when properly applied.
Applications of Butyl Glazing Tape
Window and Door Installations: Sealing glass panes into window and door frames to provide a watertight and airtight barrier.
Curtain Walls and Storefronts: Creating seals in commercial glass curtain walls, storefronts, and other glass structures.
Skylights: Providing weatherproof seals for skylights and other overhead glass installations.
Automotive Applications: Sealing windows, sunroofs, and other components in vehicles to prevent leaks and reduce vibration.
Security Glazing Tape
Security glazing tape is a robust option designed specifically to enhance the safety and security of window installations.
This tape is suitable for securing buildings against break-ins and minimising the risk of damage from adverse weather conditions.
Security glazing tape is manufactured to help hold glass firmly in place within its frame, even if the glass breaks under force. This makes it an ideal choice for areas prone to severe weather or for buildings requiring extra security measures, such as schools and government facilities.
Its adhesive strength and durability increase the overall resistance of glass panes in windows or doors to impacts and forced entry attempts, particularly when used in conjunction with other security features like laminated glass or reinforced frames
Applications of Security Glazing Tape
Commercial Buildings: Banks, retail stores, airports, and other facilities that need to protect against break-ins and vandalism.
Residential Homes
Schools and Educational Facilities: To provide added protection against potential threats and enhance overall safety.
Government Buildings Including courthouses, embassies, and other high-security locations.
Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and clinics where security and protection against impacts are important.
Storm Protection: In regions vulnerable to hurricanes, tornadoes, or severe weather events to help prevent glass breakage and reduce flying debris.
In conclusion, choosing the right glazing tape for your project is essential to ensure proper installation, durability, and protection. Whether you're focused on securing structural integrity with spacer glazing tape, sealing and insulating with butyl glazing tape, or enhancing safety with security glazing tape, each option provides unique benefits tailored to specific applications.
At AS Rubber we specialise in structural spacer tape. Our PVC structural spacer glazing tape comes in many thicknesses including: 3mm, 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, and 9.5mm. Click here to find out more information and find out how we can assist.
View other products available from our Adhesive Tapes Range.
