Survival essentials: How to select duct tape for your stockpile

Duct tape is one of the most versatile items you can obtain for your survival kit. There are a near-unlimited number of ways you can use it in survival scenarios.

Duct tape can be used for all manner of emergency repairs, such as to stop leaks on ceilings and walls and to seal windows. It can be used to fix up your worn-out shoes and to repair torn-up pieces of clothing. You can even use it as a first-aid tool and as an emergency fire starter. (Related: These are the items that you need in your first-aid kit if you just want to carry the bare minimum.)

However, not all duct tape is made equally. Different brands offer different qualities and characteristics. When thinking of the ways you can use duct tape, keep in mind the different aspects you need to look out for.

Tensile strength

If the main reason you need duct tape is to make emergency repairs on your gear and appliances, you need a roll that has good tensile strength. This is defined by how well the tape can be stretched or pulled without breaking. A really good roll with high tensile strength will be able to stretch without breaking and will be made out of synthetic materials such as polyethylene.

Adaptability to surfaces

If you plan to use duct tape in a disaster situation, then the roll of duct tape you buy needs to be able to stick to different kinds of “problem surfaces.” These include very wet, uneven, dirty or dusty surfaces that may not provide enough of a clean, smooth surface for the tape to stick to. Also consider whether the duct tape can function on painted surfaces, non-stick surfaces like Teflon and even on skin if you plan to use it as an emergency first aid tool.

Thickness

Consider how thick or thin you need your duct tape to be, as both come with significant disadvantages. If your duct tape is too thin, it won’t be as strong. If it’s too thick, it will be more difficult to bend or wrap around items and the corners of surfaces.

Weather resistance

When organizing your preps, consider the kinds of weather you may have to deal with. Different brands of duct tape will only work for favorable weather conditions. If you plan on using your duct tape for outdoor repairs or for projects that may be subjected to rain or snow, consider getting a duct tape roll that is sold as an “all-weather” tape.

Temperature resistance

Weather isn’t the only thing you have to take into consideration. The right temperature will also be a factor in how well your duct tape will work, especially if you plan on using it in an area with either high heat, high humidity or below-freezing temperatures.

Adhesion

Perhaps the most important quality you need to look out for when purchasing duct tape is its adhesive quality. Duct tape is well known for its ability to stick strongly on the surface it is applied on to. To ensure that this feature is present in the duct tape you buy, look for a roll that was manufactured using hot-melt adhesive.

In order to choose the right duct tape for all of your survival needs, make a checklist that includes the specific criteria you need for your roll, such as the need for duct tape to be very resistant to water and high humidity, or the need for the duct tape to either last long or be good enough for temporary repairs.

Learn more about the items you should have in your survival kit by reading the latest articles at Gear.news.

Sources include:

TheSurvivalistBlog.net

OffGridSurvival.com

PPMIndustries.com