Until recently, the joint between the wall and the bathroom was sealed with a cement-sand mixture. As a result, a completely sealed space came out, which, however, looked unaesthetic. In addition, if the replacement of the font was required, then quite serious dismantling work had to be done. But repair work technologies are developing rapidly, and to the delight of all housewives, an attractive and not requiring serious work border tape for the bathroom has appeared on sale. The accessory allows not only to avoid the spillage of water between the joints, but also protects the walls and corners from the formation of mold. In addition, the decorative element will be the final touch in the design of the bathroom.
What she looks like
The bathroom border tape is designed to protect the joint between the sanitary ware and the wall from getting intowater. Its large accumulation provokes the reproduction of fungi and the appearance of mold. Therefore, the product is made of smooth, waterproof and water-repellent materials.
It is a self-adhesive tape, which is made of polyvinyl chloride. The material is resistant not only to moisture, but also to alkalis, acids and oils. Reliable sealing of the joint and tightness are provided by water resistance. To repel insects and prevent the reproduction of pathogenic fungi, the tape contains fungicides that are harmless to human he alth.
In order for the product to serve for a long time and fulfill the declared performance properties, its inner side is treated with butyl glue. It is not only completely resistant to water, but also withstands significant temperature changes.
Specifications
Self-adhesive bathroom edging tape can be attached even to uneven surfaces due to its elastic structure. The applicator applied on the edges guarantees complete fixation to the wall. To avoid stagnation of water at the junction, the tape is attached at a slight angle, which allows moisture to flow down. Judging by the reviews, each sample has its own declared service life. If you buy not the cheapest option, but stop at a product from a trusted manufacturer, then the bathroom border tape remains elastic for a long time. It does not leak water and does not crack.
To install the bathroom edging tape, you need to purchase the following kit:
- direct tape, which comes in rolls and comes in different sizes and colors;
- corners (often included);
- applicator;
- cutting knife (any suitable knife can be used).
When buying a product, you need to measure the required length and choose according to your needs.
Benefits of using
According to the reviews, self-adhesive bathroom border tape is in great demand. In addition to the ease of installation and the ability to do it yourself, users have identified a number of other advantages:
- provides reliable and durable sealing;
- the elasticity of the material makes it possible to glue the tape on uneven surfaces, corners and wavy lines;
- standard service life is at least two years, but the cost is low and dismantling is easy;
- the product is resistant to mechanical damage, it is not afraid of bumps and scratches;
- provides an attractive appearance.
At the same time, the housewives note the simple care and the possibility of using any cleaning products. But it is better not to use abrasive based powders because hard particles can damage PVC.
Significant deficiencies
More and more consumers are choosing bathroom edging. Reviews still show that this material has drawbacks that should be considered. Among the most significant arenote:
- The service life is shorter than that of a plastic or ceramic tile border. Depending on the manufacturer, it is about 2-3 years.
- To replace the old tape, the old one must be removed and the place cleaned from traces of glue. It is important to degrease the space and dry it completely.
- Do not use acid-based silicone for grouting. Otherwise, the tape will quickly peel off and lose its elasticity.
But, despite the shortcomings, the bathroom border tape is indispensable when you need to do the installation yourself, quickly and without significant material costs.
Types of sealed borders
There are no significant design differences for this product. Their varieties are distinguished on the basis of any sign:
- PVC shade. Most often, the white version is in demand. However, a colored bathroom border tape is needed when the font has a different shade and compatibility is needed. Most often on sale you can find a ribbon in green, orange, beige and pink.
- Tape size. This parameter is selected depending on the perimeter of the bath and the width of the joint. Most often there is a product with a length of 3.2 to 3.5 m. If necessary, the tape can be easily cut off. The width can be: 2, 4, 6 cm. You need to select the required parameter, taking into account a small margin. But there is no need to take the widest option if the joint is small. In this case, the aesthetic appearance suffers.
- The presence of embossing. The curb tape for the bathroom hasuneven edge. But it is extremely difficult to meet such an option, because the tape is not in demand due to the high cost and difficulties in care.
As practice shows, the most demanded for baths is a white curb tape. Most often, consumers choose plumbing fixtures of this shade, so it fits perfectly into the interior.
Choosing the right option
The tape performs not only a protective function, but also a decorative one. The product gives the room a completely finished look, and a colored or figured pattern adds originality. To choose the right tape, it is worth considering a few points:
- Estimate gap width and buy 10-15mm more tape. Too small will not provide a complete seal, and too wide a border looks ridiculous.
- Standard tape is 3, 2-3, 5 m long. This length is enough to close the joint on three sides of an ordinary font. However, if the plumbing is angular, has asymmetric shapes or unusual sizes, then you will need to purchase two rolls.
- If the bathtub is white, then only the white version of the tape should be considered. Color options will help to emphasize the grace of colored acrylic fonts. But with figured samples, you should be careful. They are difficult to care for and require more careful handling.
So that the choice does not disappoint later, it is necessary to evaluate the integrity of the package and pay attention to the production time. The fact is that with prolonged or improper storage, PVC can lose its properties. Strength is broken, and flexibility becomes less pronounced.
How to install yourself
Before buying, you need to study the question of how to stick the bathroom border tape. It should be remembered that installation is possible only on completely dry and degreased surfaces. If this rule is not observed, then the product will not lie tightly, will eventually fall behind and will let water through. The temperature in the room is also important. If a wide tape is used, then the bathroom should be at least 10 degrees. In addition, the temperature regime is important during drying.
Basic installation is done after surface preparation. To do this, gradually release the adhesive base and press the tape in segments for 10-15 seconds. It's not so much the time that matters, but the pressure. Only after complete drying is it allowed to wet the curb with water and clean it.
Fixing sequence
In order to securely fix the curb tape and ensure complete sealing, a certain sequence of actions must be performed.
Clean the joint, bath surface and wall. They must be free from any contamination and completely dry. If another tape was pasted before, then you will need to remove the remnants of glue and sealant. Acetone or thinner can be used to degrease surfaces. It is forbidden to use turpentine. The product destroys any coating of the bath, especially acrylic.
After cleansingcomplete drying and sealant application. The walls and surface of the bath should be protected. To do this, it is recommended to use masking tape, which is then removed without consequences.
Before you glue the tape, you need to cut off the necessary piece. However, it is recommended to do this at the end of fixation, because the material may not be enough due to the peculiarities of the output of corners. Gradually unroll the roll and make a sticker.
Sticker around the corner
When processing corners, it is recommended to increase the elasticity of the curb. To do this, you can use a building or household hair dryer. The tape must be heated, folded and firmly attached to the corner. Do not intentionally stretch the tape, otherwise gaps may form after drying. You just need to press it firmly against the surface, which is enough for a complete and secure fixation.
In conclusion, the tape is cut off and control is made so that moisture does not get in until it is completely dry. Only after a day will it be possible to check the result of the work. To do this, you can try to move the curb to the side. If this was not possible, then all the actions were carried out correctly and you can take water procedures.
Terms of Use
To quickly close the joint between the wall and the bathroom, a bathtub edging tape will come in handy. In this case, it is important to derive the corner most accurately, because it is the weak point of the product. However, the border is elastic, so it can be fixed on any uneven surface.
Be aware that PVC tape is short-lived. Upon expirationoperation, it will most likely have to be changed. Therefore, if a more long-lasting option is required, then plastic or ceramic products can be considered.
Yet the tape has its fans. Popularity and demand is ensured by high sealing properties, ease of sticker and affordable price. However, be careful not to use the tape once it has failed.
Conclusions
No matter how close the bathtub is to the wall, there is always a small gap between the surfaces. Even a small gap will serve to accumulate water, which will lead to damage to the coating, the reproduction of pathogenic organisms and the appearance of mold. Self-adhesive borders are used to ensure sealing and complete the bathroom interior. You can choose a tape depending on the shade of the font, the color of the floor or wall. At the same time, there are options for smooth and textured. But, as practice shows, the latter are less common and require more careful care. That is why they are not so in demand and popular.
To find the optimal size, you need to accurately determine the width of the gap. The tape should be slightly wider than the existing joint. At the same time, the installation process is so simple that even a beginner can handle it. The main thing is to follow the fixing rules, then the curb will serve its intended service life.
