- I’ve looked at those hybrid tapes too, but honestly, I’m skeptical about anything that claims to do “everything.” Sometimes the old-school methods just work better.
- One thing I do like about foil tape is that it doesn’t seem to off-gas much, which matters to me since I’m trying to keep indoor air cleaner.
- Has anyone noticed if the hybrids are any better for air quality or VOCs? I’m always a little wary of new adhesives for that reason.
- Also, curious if anyone’s tried using foil tape on flex duct, or if it’s just not worth the hassle.
One thing I do like about foil tape is that it doesn’t seem to off-gas much, which matters to me since I’m trying to keep indoor air cleaner.
That’s something I’ve noticed too—foil tape just seems “cleaner” for lack of a better word. I’ve read a couple product sheets on the hybrids and, honestly, the VOC info isn’t always clear. Some say “low VOC” but don’t really specify, so I’m still a bit cautious. I’d rather stick with what I know doesn’t stink up the place.
About using foil tape on flex duct, I’ve tried it a few times. It definitely sticks, but getting it to wrap smoothly around the ridges is a pain. Sometimes it peels back if the duct gets bumped or flexed too much. Mastic is messier but seems to hold up better long-term, at least in my experience. Anyone else run into that, or am I just not taping right? I keep wondering if there’s a trick to getting foil tape to stay put on the flex stuff.
I’ve had the same problem with foil tape on flex duct—those ridges just don’t make things easy. Sometimes I’ll use a roller to press it down, and that helps a bit, but it still wants to peel if the duct moves around. Mastic is messier for sure, but I agree it tends to last longer on those uneven surfaces. Has anyone tried both together? Like mastic first, then foil tape over it? Curious if that’s overkill or actually helps with durability...
