Water-Activated Tape: Pros and Cons - Worth the Cost?

When it comes to sealing a box, you have a lot of options: staples, glue, and many kinds of tape. If you’ve been thinking about experimenting with water-activated tape, then this post is for you. This kind of tape delivers exceptional performance and a hint of panache, but it also comes at a price. To determine if the cost is worth it, read on.  

A Quick Summary of the Benefits of Water-activated Tape 

The primary benefit of water-activated tape is its ability to seal a heavy box. The tape’s high tensile strength and durability make it one of the toughest options available. Water-activated tape is made of paper and a layer of modified corn starch, and this corn starch is activated by water from the dispensing device. When you apply the moistened tape, it forms a bond with the cardboard that is unlike any seal made by pressure-sensitive tape—it literally becomes one with the cardboard.  

When water-activated tape bonds to the box, it creates yet another benefit: it is now tamper-proof (or, to be more precise, the tape allows you to see evidence if there is tampering). Removing the tape permanently mars the surface of the cardboard. This security feature is rare among the various package sealing options.  

Water-activated tape can be reinforced—often with nylon or fiberglass—which improves its tensile strength and also contributes to its resilience. Most of these tapes can withstand a variety of harsh conditions, including extreme high and low temperatures. Many packing tapes fail under these conditions.  

In addition, water-activated tape is a great choice if you are looking to have branded printing on your tape. The tape rolls out smoothly for a stylish finish and is ideal for labels.  

Does water-activated tape cost more than other tapes? 

Water-activated tape is not much more costly by the roll than other tapes. Its main component is non-silicone kraft paper, so its cost will usually revolve around the cost of that raw material. The presence of reinforcing material will drive up the cost a little bit, as well. Nylon and fiberglass can sometimes fluctuate in cost based on the volatile price of oil. Most of the time, however, these fluctuations don’t affect the final price of a roll of tape. In general, water-activated tape usually proves itself to be very cost-effective because you can seal a box with less tape.  

However, when making the switch from acrylic or hot-melt carton sealing tape to water-activated tape, you much also consider start-up costs. This tape requires a specialized dispenser that applies a thin layer of water—usually via a sponge or brush—to the tape as it comes out of the device. Some of these dispensers are costly, so the initial investment for water-activated tape can appear significantly higher than other tapes. However, while the startup cost might be higher for one of these dispensers, the devices have a reputation for lasting a long time. They are made of heavy-duty parts, and users who maintain them properly can keep them for up to 20 years. For high-volume users, the equipment will quickly pay for itself through increased productivity, lower material usage, and fewer packaging mishaps.  

Is an electric dispenser for water-activated tape worth the cost? 

Choosing an electric tape dispenser will of course incur the biggest investment, but it might be one worth making. These machines roll out tape at the push of a button and sever it at whatever length you program it for. This both improves productivity for the packaging line and reduced material waste. The ease of use and the need for fewer repetitive motions make this dispenser popular. It should be noted, however, that this dispenser requires a power outlet. This might limit the flexibility of your carton-sealing operation. But if your packaging happens at one station, then this is not an issue. 

Are there surprise issues that might affect cost? 

If you choose to convert to water-activated tape you should keep in mind a couple of things. First, good storage practices are essential for this kind of tape because it is sensitive to moisture. Water and even humidity can ruin a shelf of tape and lead to a costly loss.  

Second, failure to adequately clean a dispenser can limit its lifespan. These tape machines have a wet brush that adds water to the bottom of the tape as it is dispensed, and, if that brush is not cleaned properly and replaced periodically, it might get gummed up. In that case, the brush ends up adding either too much water to the tape or not enough, both of which will cause problems. (The best way to maintain a healthy brush is to take it out of the machine every couple of weeks and soak it overnight in warm water with a drop of dish soap. Problem solved.)  

Third, like most dispensers, these devices have parts that will need to be replaced over time. Cutting blades eventually dull and need replacing. Buttons on electric dispensers sometimes wear out and need repair. Springs on manual machines might eventually need replacing, as well.  

Tips for Considering Water-activated Tape 

When thinking about a move to water-activated tape, think about the following issues. All of them affect cost.   

• Limited competition. At the moment, only two domestic manufacturers make water-activated tape—Intertape Polymer Group (IPG) and Holland. There are few overseas makers. This means that shopping around will be limited in its usefulness. 

• Buying in volume. Upsizing your order might be the best way to bring your costs down. A larger order would likely be cheaper and would also lead to lower shipping costs. However, if you go this route, be sure you have a reliable storage strategy to take care of your tape—a dry environment is crucial.  
• Try samples. If you’re undecided on using water-activated tape, ask for samples and try it out yourself. First-time users who experiment with it report being very satisfied with the results.  

Finding the Best Tape Value 

As always, having a relationship with a trustworthy supplier can help you make a good decision. A supplier can walk you through the options, recommend solutions for your various applications, send you samples, and arrange the right-sized order for your budget. Benchmark experts are always on hand to offer such help.

Looking for a new way to seal your boxes and thinking about water-activated tape? Talk to one of our product experts.