Siga Wigluv vs 3M 8067 Flashing Tape
I’d like to tape the joint between the wood window bucks and the EPS insulation in my ICF wall, and want to decide on a tape.
I of course have read Martin’s tape tests and it seems like Siga’s Wigluv tape comes out on top for most tests, but 3M’s 8067 Flashing Tape also rates very highly.
Of course some may say, just buy the best, but I’m trying to determine how different they are as Wigluv is about 2x as expensive as 3M 8067, and how much better is it really?
Does anyone who’s used both tapes have anything to share? I’d especially be interested in hearing how they adhere to EPS, as that was not focused on for any test that I’ve read about.
I will note that I have not tried Siga’s tape, but I did attach some 3M 8067 on to a piece of EPS left over from the ICF. I was able to peel it off, however, it took a fair effort and a number of styrofoam beads were attached to the tape. This would seem to indicate that the tape bonded pretty well to the EPS? I have never done a tape test before so I’m not sure what to expect?
Thanks.
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We used a lot of both tapes in our new house. The window supplier recommended the Siga Wigluv for the windows, so that's what we used there. It sticks tenaciously to osb, plywood, vinyl and hands.
We used 3M 8067 for all sorts of things. It also adhered well to everything.
Martin did a backyard tape test a while ago and both performed well. Unlike the Siga tapes, shopping around for the best price for the 3M tapes will save money. Definitely get it by the case. We got it from Industrial general.
Nick:
I assume that the tapes are being used to connect your above grade wall/sheathing air barrier to the foundation portion air barrier?
Just a reminder that the air barrier component of an ICF wall is the concrete core, and not the ICF skins (unless every single ICF joint is somehow glued/sealed).
Thanks. So the windows in the ICF were formed with 2x12 wood bucks that go all the way from the interior to the exterior. I can't find much info about this subject, but my concern is that as the concrete/wood dries there could be a small gap that forms between the wood buck and the concrete core. I'd like to add tape as pretty cheap insurance against this, if possible, unless someone has a better idea.
I do realize that the concrete core is the air barrier on an ICF wall. But I don't really see how I could tape the wood buck to the concrete since it is covered with EPS insulation. My hope is (as there doesn't seem to be much study behind air leakage points in ICF walls) is that by taping the wood buck to the EPS that will limit a potential air leakage path. Now, I guess air could still come in under the buck and travel between the EPS and the concrete, but I'm thinking that isn't very likely because the EPS is pretty bonded on to the concrete (as it is difficult to scrape EPS off concrete in an ICF wall). But I could be wrong about this and am open to suggestions.
Nick,
I imagine that either caulk, Siga Wigluv, or 3M flashing tape would work in this case. If you choose any one of these three options, you will be doing a better job than is done in most ICF homes.
We used both tapes in various places (but no EPS) during our house build and both have very strong adhesion. The one thing I did notice is that Wigluv seems more "robust". I don't know if it's actually thicker, but it may hold up better on rough surfaces or on sharp corners. Again, just an impression of mine.
If you are taping inside corners, make sure to get the split backing.
If you have the time...just order a roll of each, use them, and then order the rest based on your preference/costs.
Thanks
FYI, another Euro-made product, PassivTape, is tenaciously sticky and distributed in British Columbia by http://www.power-house.ca and should save a couple bucks. Cheers