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16.0 REPAIR TAPE - DO-IT-YOURSELF - DIY TIPS

Today there are a variety of tapes that can be used for effortless repairs. I particularly like tape because it is cheap and the repair is instant. Unlike glues, you do not have to wait for it to dry. In the last issue we discussed how to use duct tape. Now I want to add two other tapes to your repair kit.

With all tapes, you need to make certain that the surface is clean and dry.

== The first is wide, thick, clear cellophane tape often used for sealing packages. You can buy a large roll with a tear off dispenser attached. If you buy a roll by itself, you will also need to buy a dispenser to hold the tape, so it doesn't stick to itself and become impossible to use.

This tape can be used in a pinch to seal a crack on a window pane. Put tape on both sides and you have a solid repair until you get around to replacing the pane. This tape will handle weather reasonably well.

It also adheres well to any very smooth surface. I used it to seal a crack in the tail light of my van. The tape has been in place for over a year and is holding up just fine.

== Metal repair tape is one of the newer tapes available. Manco Inc. who makes the brand I bought says it is "for all metal, automotive, aluminum siding."

While I have only used this tape for a couple of months, I must say I am impressed. It is basically a very thick aluminum foil with an incredible glue backing. You need no tools to use it; simply tear it and pull off the backing. You could use a pair of scissors to cut it and then the handle of a screw driver to press the tape down where you apply it or just use your fingers.

This tape finally fixed a stubborn leak in the roof of my van. Since it is metal it should weather quite well. I recommend it for any rusty spots on your car. You can paint over it with spray paint and no one will ever know.

For serious repairs overlap several strips for a good thick seal.

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