Since it’s an affable tape, it’s popular amongst electricians. It adheres easily and can get manipulated to fit in tight spaces and around oddly shaped materials. Mastic tape is a highly revered choice for outdoor wiring needs, as it has excellent moisture and UV resistant capabilities.

Tape thickness is usually measured in the United States in “mils”, or thousandths of an inch (1/1000”). The thickness can be measured from the bottom of the adhesive surface to the top of the outer surface or simply the film itself. In most cases, the thicker the tape the stronger and more durable it is. This is referred to as tensile strength. Thinner tape tends to be used for lightweight or temporary applications whereas thicker material is required for sealing heavy boxes and other heavy-duty applications. Duct tape is a great example of a thick adhesive roll whereas painting tape is often very thin and hand tearable.

For applications that require a higher level of water resistance or waterproofing, specialized tapes or additional measures may be necessary. It’s recommended to assess the specific requirements of your application and consider the expected level of water exposure to determine whether polyethylene tape alone provides sufficient water resistance or if additional waterproofing measures are necessary.