"clear packing tape can sometimes start peeling at the edges over time."
Yeah, I've noticed that too, especially around hot water lines. Aluminum foil tape sounds like a solid alternative—never thought of using it for labels, honestly. Just wondering though, does the marker ink fade or smudge after a while? I've had permanent markers fade on me before in damp areas, so I'm always cautious about readability down the line...
I've tried aluminum tape labels before, and honestly, Sharpie ink holds up surprisingly well. Had some on my basement pipes for a couple years now—still readable. Just make sure the surface is clean first, or it can smudge a bit at the start...
"Sharpie ink holds up surprisingly well. Had some on my basement pipes for a couple years now—still readable."
Yeah, Sharpies are pretty reliable, but personally, I've switched to using paint markers. They seem to hold up even longer, especially in humid areas or places where condensation happens a lot. Plus, you can find eco-friendly versions nowadays made with less harmful chemicals. Had some labels outdoors on my rain barrels for three years now—still clear as day. Just another option if you're looking to upgrade your labeling game...
Sharpies are good, paint markers sound fancy, but honestly I've been using plain old masking tape and a ballpoint pen for years. Cheap, easy, and you can peel it off if you mess up (which I do...often). Had some labels on pipes near my washer for about four years now, still legible despite humidity. Might not win style points, but hey, gets the job done without breaking the bank.
Masking tape's decent, but I switched to painter's tape a while back—holds up better in damp spots and peels off cleaner if you need to redo labels. Still cheap enough that I don't cringe tossing a messed-up piece...which happens plenty around here.
