When undertaking a wood floor installation project, it’s crucial to exercise caution and choose the right tools and materials to preserve the beauty and integrity of your new floor.

One common mistake that many contractors make is using sticky tape on new wood floors, unaware of the potential risks associated with this seemingly harmless practice. In this article, we will explore why using any kind of sticky tape during installation, even for temporary purposes, can lead to irreversible damage to your wood floor finish.

It might come as a surprise, but all sticky tapes contain plasticisers in their glue composition. These plasticisers play a crucial role in making the tape adhere to surfaces. However, when sticky tape come into contact with a wood floor finish, trouble occurs. The plasticiser in the glue begins to soften and break down the finish, leading to damage that can occur in just a few hours. It’s essential to recognise that this damage isn’t exclusive to any particular type of finish – it can affect any wood floor finish, leaving behind unsightly and permanent marks.

Leaving tape on your wood floor for an extended period worsens the problem. The glue hardens over time, creating a bond that seems impossible to break. Attempting to remove the tape becomes a risky endeavour, as it often results in damage to the finish. The longer the tape remains in place, the more challenging it becomes to salvage your wood floor. Desperation often leads to the use of chemicals to remove stubborn tape residue. However, this too poses a significant risk to your wood floor finish. Chemicals can interact with the floor finish, causing discolouration, dullness, or even stripping away the protective layers. The glue from the tape may also dissolve into the new finish, creating a messy and irreversible situation.

To ensure the longevity and beauty of your newly installed wood floor, it’s crucial to avoid using any kind of sticky tape during renovations. Instead, opt for alternative methods to secure protective coverings during the restoration process. Consider using soft, non-adhesive materials like felt pads to prevent scratches and damage. Sticky tape, though seemingly innocuous, can wreak havoc on the finish of your wood floors. Understanding the risks associated with using tape is the first step toward protecting your investment and ensuring that your wood floors stand the test of time.

At JackEvie, we have experienced issues with contractors using sticky tape on wood flooring on multiple occasions, and it seems to be an issue across the entire industry.