Soft edge tape size

J

Joe 73

Quick question. I've never used, nor am I familiar with, soft edge tape. My buddy wants to give me a roll of 3/4" diameter soft edge tape to use on my car. Can I use 3/4" if my gaps are more like 1/2" ? Does it matter ?? thanks guys.
 
There are different kinds, the type you are talking about probably starts as 1" tape, then has 1/4" folded over itself at the factory before being put on the roll. So you have 1/4" of tape that is not sticky, and that's the part you face outward. It partially shields the taped area from overspray so a hard edge can't form. A perfect soft edge is hard to achieve.
 
Its the carborundum 99362. Its the oval shape, kind of like a tylenol pill, when laying flat on the table it has a slit in the center. Adhesive is only on one half / on one side, of the "pill". Looks like what your describing. So would it matter if it 3/4" and my gaps are less ? The price is right so I'm hoping I can use it.
 
I've used larger sized foam tape on smaller gaps if I'm not back-taping. Just position the tape such that when compressed that it doesn't bulge out of the opening, but sits slightly below the edge. Also, don't let the paint dry with the tape installed. I usually remove it shortly after flashing the last coat.
 
The old fashioned way works way better than the foam tape in my opinion. Foam tape leaves an edge, sometimes it will even bridge. I like using 2" tape and folding it back over on itself. Done right it doesn't leave any edge whatsover.
 
i always do like crash and do jambs at the same time as the rest of the car but if i am masking and need a soft edge i use 3m smooth transition tape. its a narrow clear film with a thick adhesive down the center so the edges of the tape dont touch the surface. i then back tape that. my foam tape then just sits on the regluar tape i used to back mask and is just there to fill the gap between panels. this works out great because the foam is never used as actual masking and it doesnt touch the surface. if it does then i found the foam leaves a rough edge or sticks in the clearcoat in some areas. i dont really like it. great as just a gap filler though. i really like the 3m smooth transition tape. that stuff works great.
 
Thanks for the replies. My buddy is going to drop off the tape so I can check it out. I'm liking Chris' 2" tape trick. I'll try the tape if no good, I'll be trying the 2" tape. Thanks guys.
 
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