There is no greater enemy to a trailer owner than a leak. We believe that an ounce of prevention is worth any effort, sowe regularly inspect all areas where sealant has been applied on our RV. In appropriate areas, we have chosen to use a product called EternaBond tape and have found the bond it produces to be unquestionably reliable.
But is EternaBond tape truly everlasting as its name suggests? Read on to find out!
table of contents to hide
- 1) What is EternaBond tape?
- 2) Is the EternaBond tape really eternal?
- 3) What is EternaBond tape used for?
- 4) What is Eternabond tape made of?
- 5) How to use EternaBond tape
- 5.1) Clean the surface
- 5.2) Prepare the surface
- 5.3) If possible, work with small strips at a time
- 5.4) Overlapping the edges of the strips
- 5.5) Inspect
- 6) Can the EternaBond tape be painted?
- 7) Where to buy EternaBond tape
- 8) EternalBond Tape – Just the right amount of Eternal
What is EternaBond tape?
A roll of EternaBond tape is a very important part of our RV tool kit, and we think all RVers will find this sealant useful and reliable.
EternaBond comes as an easy-to-use roll of tape and is patented to use microsealant technology. One of the few RV sealants made in a tape form, EternaBond stops or prevents almost any leak, providing a permanent bond to virtually any surface and works great for most non-pressurized leaks.
Trusted for its effectiveness and ease of use, EternaBond tape is perhaps the most used sealant and is loved by everyone from construction workers to RV owners.
Is EternaBond tape really everlasting?
Although EternaBond tape typically lasts between 20 and 35 years, its bond is not eternal. The tape can be removed if necessary (though not without significant effort), and it is possible, though unlikely, that an area sealed with EternaBond will need to be resealed at some point.
Breaking the EternaBond seal is not easy, but it is possible with the right steps. The tape must be heated well (and carefully, so as not to damage the ceiling, especially if it is a "rubber" ceiling) and completely soften, after which it is necessary to use a little force to tear the outer coating, using a knife sharpened for general use. Cut the sticky stuff as you do this.
If your plan is to re-apply EternaBond tape to the area, it shouldn't be necessary to completely remove the remaining adhesive from the ceiling. But if you want to clean the area well, you can work to scrape off the rest of the material with a plastic scraper and use rubbing alcohol or rubbing alcohol to clean up any remaining residue. Again, careful use of heat can be helpful in helping to soften the adhesive. A fiberglass or metal roof is the best type to try to remove EternaBond.
So eternal? Not necessarily. Lasting? Yes sir!
What is EternaBond tape used for?
Recreational vehicles often use EternaBond tape on their roofs and sides toavoid leaksbecause it's easy to use with minimal mess. Quickly repair broken seams, leaks and small holes. And, due to its durability, it does not require regular maintenance once applied.
EternaBond tape not only repairs leaks, it also prevents them when used before they occur, such as sealing holes left after removing equipment from the roof. This is where our satellite dish used to be mounted.
EternaBond also works well for securing items such as cables to the roof or side of a trailer, preventing them from being blown away.
Existing leaks can also be fixed with EternaBond tape, provided you can locate the source of the leak.
What is Eternabond tape made of?
EternaBond tape is made from synthetic polymersand contains a proprietary internal primer that allows it to strongly adhere and seal a wide range of surfaces. This combination of resins and rubbers is formulated from synthetic polymers with a wide temperature tolerance.
Unlike many sealants such as traditional caulking, silicone or even butyl tape, EternaBond and its primer are free of solvents and volatile organic compounds (VOC). For this reason, air quality is not adversely affected during application or even if the tape is damaged.
It's easy to see why EternaBond is one of the most sought after sealants on the market.
How to use EternaBond tape
Depending on the job, there may be more specific instructions for creating the stamp you need. However, if you follow these general steps, you'll be well on your way to creating an almost lasting bond.
Be sure to check the care instructions for your roof type before proceeding. A fiberglass or metal roof will be pretty impervious to just about anything, but a roof made from TPO, EPDM, or other "rubber" material can be damaged if treated too harshly.
clean the surface
As with any tape or sealant, clean the surface thoroughly before applying the tape. A good wash with warm, soapy water will help ensure a watertight seal.
The surface must be free of dust, oil or other contaminants. A quick, thorough scrubbing will do the trick if nothing is left on the surface. However, if oil, grease, tree sap, or traces of other organic matter are present, you may need to use a degreaser.
prepare the surface
Depending on what you need to remove, rubbing alcohol or acetone should do the job. Please note that these solutions are flammable, so use them with care.
If you just can't clear the area, you can useEternaPrime, a tape primer and surface conditioner. It is a low VOC spray or liquid with the same resins as EternaBond tape and will cover up any contaminants so the tape will adhere and seal.
If possible, work with small strips at a time.
The first rule of thumb when applying EternaBond is to use it in hot weather, preferably at least around 70 degrees if possible. Place the tape carefully, giving it time to adjust to the space and surface(s).
The ribbon can be cut to size with household scissors. Working with pre-cut strips makes application much easier.
Do not pull the tape to stretch it across an extended surface. Instead, work with small strips for flexibility and ease of use. Carefully cut and position the tape, being careful not to stretch or crease it.
overlapping strip edges
Since you're working with small handles, overlap the edges of the handles to add an extra layer of protection.
After applying the tape smoothly, start applying pressure to all contact points. EternaBond works best under pressure. Pressing down activates the adhesive and creates the seal. You can buy a small roller to apply even pressure along the length of the tape.
Using a small roller activates the microsealants in the tape evenly and ensures that the edges of the tape are firmly adhered to the surface.
Using a roller will ensure that you activate the adhesive evenly and remove any bubbles for the best seal. You can also use continuous pressure from your hands and fingers, especially on small areas of application.
Offer
- Solid rubber sewing roller
- Simple structure, easy to use.
buy on amazonPricing and availability information last updated March 16, 2023 1:26 PM.
Inspect
Once applied, take your roller with you and examine each area where you used the tape. Look for air bubbles, bent corners or other stains. Blow out air bubbles if possible and take care of other defects. If you are unable to repair a problem area, follow the steps mentioned earlier in this article to remove that portion of tape and apply a new strip.
Let the tape sit for approximately 60 to 90 minutes before checking for proper sealing. If you followed the steps outlined above, there shouldn't be any problems with the tape for a long time. As with any sealant, always check the sealed areas every six months or so.
Can EternaBond tape be painted?
There are mixed reviews about whether EternaBond tape is paintable. However, according to the manufacturer, you can.
No need to add paint as a sealer, the tape already does that! However, if you're specifically looking for a different color (the tape is available in white, gray, black, and even brown), you can paint it. Keep in mind that tree branches and other external elements can scratch the paintwork.
Where to buy EternaBond tape
More than 600 commercial distributors and retailers from coast to coast sell EternaBond tape. You can also buy it online directly from EternaBond or through Amazon. It comes in a variety of lengths, widths and kits to meet your repair needs. Be sure to pay close attention to the width of tape you are purchasing for your application.
EternaBond White Mobile Home RV Rubber Roof Repair 4" x 20' - 20', 20'
20 foot lengths are cut from new master rolls as this length is not offered by Eternabond
Offer
The 10-foot lengths are cut from new master rolls as this length is not offered by Eternabond; Eternabond Color: White
EternaBond RSB-6-50 RoofSeal Roof Repair Sealant Tape, Black (6" x 50', Black)
Eternabond Color: Black; Size: 6" x 50'
EternaBond Tape - just the right amount of Eternal
EternaBond tape is one of the most reliable sealants on the market. If you intend to have a lasting, almost eternal relationship with a sealant, EternaBond is a reliable partner!
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