Masking Tapes

Masking tape goes on before the polisher does. It keeps compound off rubber seals, textured plastics and badges, where the residue dries white, and covers sharp edges and body lines, where the paint is thinnest. The range is Colad Aqua Dynamic in 19, 25, 38 and 50mm widths and Q1 Precision Line in 24 and 50mm, all on 50m rolls.

How to choose

• Width: 19 and 24mm follow curves round window rubbers, badges and door handles; 38 and 50mm cover a bumper insert or a wide trim strip in one run. Most jobs need one of each.
• Tape: Colad Aqua Dynamic is made for masking trim and rubber before polishing and grips rubber as well as metal. Q1 Precision Line is an ultra-thin paper tape for sharp paint lines on smooth surfaces.
• Either will mark out a test section: run a line of tape across the panel, polish one side and compare.

Good to know

• Press the edge down with a fingernail so polish cannot creep underneath.
• Peel it off at the end of the day, back over itself rather than straight up. Tape left on for days in the sun is harder to remove cleanly.

What kind of tape will not damage car paint?

A tape made for automotive masking, such as Colad Aqua Dynamic or Q1 Precision Line. Take it off the same day, peeling it back over itself rather than straight up.

Related: Preparation & Accessories, Panel Wipe & IPA, Paint Inspection Lights, Compounds & Polishes. Popular brands here: Q1 Tapes.