Duct tape has long been the go-to repair material of choice for those quick-fixes. It is a three-layer tape consisting of a plastic top layer, followed by a fabric mesh inner layer, and a rubber-based adhesive layer to provide maximum stickiness. It is one of the strongest tapes and can be used for just about anything. One of the benefits of this tape is that it can be ripped with bare hands and does not require special cutting tools despite its strength and flexibility. With so many uses it can be hard to narrow down repairs that can be completed with duct tape, but the six repairs below will help get you up and running in no time.
1. Vacuum Hose
If your vacuum hose has developed a hole, fear not. A quick round of duct tape on the hose should correct the problem and ensure proper suction. You may want to tape above and below the hole, just to be sure that the hole is completely covered.
2. Window Protection
Is your home in the path of hurricane or other potentially damaging storm? Place duct tape diagonally across your home's windows to prevent them from shattering. Use adhesive remover to remove the sticky residue once the storm has passed.
3. Car Repair
It is true that a bumper fixed with duct tape looks a bit peculiar, but as anyone who has ever had a loose bumper knows, it can be a life saver until you can get to a repair shop. Store a roll of duct tape in your trunk for those times when you need a quick fix.
4. Broken Furniture
Is the leg threatening to split apart on your coffee table? Wrap duct tape around it a few times and it will be as good as new. For a fun and funky look, try using colored tape instead of the standard silver. You can also use tape to repair that patio furniture that needs a bit more strength in the webbing.
5. Curtain Repair
Has your curtain accidentally been torn after being caught in the window? Smooth the torn area flat and on the back of the curtain place a piece of duct tape. This also works well for roller shades that have been damaged. If you need to quickly hem a curtain, you can also fold up the bottom of the material and duct tape the end to the main fabric itself. If you need to lengthen it, simply remove the tape and readjust.
6. Shower Curtain Repair
If the grommet on your shower curtain has been pulled off, there is still a way to salvage the curtain. Put a piece of duct tape over the top edge of the curtain and then poke a new hole for the shower curtain ring. For a stronger area, put a couple of layers of the tape instead of just one.
Duct tape is a great, inexpensive tool to keep in your bag of home repair tricks. Its strength and flexibility make it ideal for most anything. Ironically, this tape does not work well for repairing heating and cooling ducts, as it becomes brittle and loses its adhesive strength when subjected to constantly fluctuating temperatures.
6 Tips to Make a Repair With Duct Tape
