Opti-Grip Dry Adhesive vs. Wet Adhesive Tape for Commercial Applications

Posted by Sean McDermott on Aug 11, 2016 8:00:00 AM

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When completing a flooring installation, you have a choice between using a wet adhesive or a dry adhesive. You have several choices when it comes to selecting a dry adhesive. We, of course, recommend Opti-Grip, our acrylic tape with a fiberglass scrim reinforcement. But, there are other options on the marker, like Ultrastik from Surface Shields, Power Tape from Johnsonite, and RhinoGrip from Roberts. 

So, how do you know which type of adhesive is right for you? Throughout our many years in the industry, we've heard project managers cite two differences between the two adhesive systems that make them choose one or the other- the installation process, and stability and strength.

Installation Time

Wet adhesives can sometimes seem like an attractive option because of their low initial costs, but using them requires longer setup and curing times. A dry adhesive like Opti-Grip, on the other hand, requires very little setup and no curing time, allowing for immediate foot traffic after installation. 

Further, wet adhesives can emit unsafe fumes or odors, requiring people to stay out of the building for as long as it takes to get rid of them. Opti-Grip and other dry adhesives don't have any odors or potential effects on health. This is especially important when completing an installation at places like hospitals or schools.

Stability and Strength

Opti-Grip is made of a polyester fiber that creates strong, long-lasting bonds between surfaces, giving your project an extra layer of stability that wet adhesives often lack. It's strong enough to adhere cove base, transition strips, stair nosings, carpet, vinyl, and more, both for indoor and outdoor projects. 

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Topics: Opti-Grip, Video

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