Are all masking tapes safe for automotive applications? Will certain masking tapes accidentally strip your car’s paint? 

Let’s find out!

Masking tape is a broad term with several products, and performance options, to choose from. Each masking tape differs in the way it performs, the substrates it can be used on, days of clean removal, and temperature requirements.

Utility Grade Masking Tape is used in a wide variety of general-purpose applications. It is popular among multiple industries including transportation, building and construction, and other general industrial markets.

However, utility grade masking tape shouldn’t be trusted on a high-end vehicle. Instead, use for holding or masking less delicate surfaces.

Industrial Grade Masking Tape is most often used for general purpose applications including painting, bundling, and protecting. BT-190 is an example of an Industrial Grade product that can be safe for short term automotive masking. 

High Temperature Masking Tape is often used for critical paint masking applications withstanding high temperatures. This masking tape offers clean removal applications for automotive, specialty vehicle, and industrial markets.

Options like BT-7065 or BT-908 provide clean removal capabilities for vehicles and can be used in automotive applications with a bake cycle due to high temperature resistance.

Although masking tapes may seem similar, the difference could cost you a new paint job. Ensure you always use a high temperature, clean removal masking tape on your automobile applications.