Zipping tape inside corners, particularly with flashing tapes, involves specific techniques to ensure a tight, weather-resistant seal and proper material flexibility.
Mastering Inside Corner Flashing with Zip Tape
Proper application of zip flashing tape in inside corners is crucial for preventing water intrusion and ensuring the longevity of your building envelope. This process requires attention to detail, especially when navigating the transition from a wall down to the floor or foundation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Zipping Inside Corners
Follow these steps to effectively apply zip tape in an inside corner:
- Prepare the Surface: Ensure the corner surfaces are clean, dry, and free from any debris that could impede adhesion. Any dust, dirt, or moisture can compromise the tape's effectiveness.
- Initial Application & Tightness: Begin by applying the zip tape directly into the inside corner. Crucially, ensure the tape is pulled and pressed firmly so that it is tight in the corner. This eliminates air pockets and ensures maximum contact for a watertight seal, effectively "zipping" the corner.
- Continue Downward: Once the initial corner is secured, continue to apply the tape down to the bottom of the wall. This ensures continuous protection along the vertical seam, maintaining the integrity of the weather barrier.
- Address Floor Transition (Important): When extending the tape down to the floor level or foundation, a specific cut is necessary for proper movement and adherence. You need to cut half the tape lengthwise. This strategic cut allows the other side to move correctly, accommodating any slight shifts or contours as the tape transitions from the wall to the floor, preventing buckling or creasing.
- Press and Secure: After positioning the tape, use a roller or a similar tool to firmly press down the entire length of the applied tape, especially at the edges. This activates the adhesive and ensures a complete, robust bond to the substrate.
Why a Tight Fit and Strategic Cut are Essential
A tight fit in the corner prevents water from seeping behind the tape, which could lead to significant moisture damage, rot, or mold growth. The act of "zipping" refers to creating this snug, continuous seal, ensuring the building envelope remains impenetrable.
The strategic cut when reaching the bottom of the wall (or floor) is a key technique for ensuring the tape can adapt to changes in direction or plane without stress. Without this cut, the tape might buckle, crease, or lift away from the surface, compromising the seal and creating potential pathways for water. This flexibility is vital for the long-term performance and durability of the flashing system.
