How long is it safe to leave painter's tape on?

[Mike1968NM]

Hi Everyone,

Here is my situation, I just received my "detailing kit" this Friday and have gone through the wash/clay and now have the wheels done.

I have taped the "test area" and have used the Menzerna Intense polish and then final polish and have been very pleased with the results.

My dilemna is that I have simply run out of time. How long can I safely leave the blue 3M Painter's tape on the areas I taped such as the trim, door handles, etc?

I will only be able to do an area or so each night for a few days due to work.

Thoughts?

Thanks!

[Rsurfer]

Is it in a garage?

[Z06-Goose]

Even if it's just for a couple of hours, some tapes will leave a gummy residue behind. That's normal, it's "safe" as far as not causing any permanent damage. Just use some type of cleaner or IPA-50/50 mix to clean

[Blackfire]

For quality blue painter's tape, a 7 day release is average. After that, you'll have residue, hard to remove tape, and some visible discoloration to the substrate.

In the future, I recommend *delicate surfaces tape* which is good for 14 days. However, if exposed to the sun, all bets are off. Sun will harden the adhesive and make for a most difficult removal, leaving behind some discoloration to black trim.

An adhesive remover will make quick work, but be careful. It removes wax too.

[Mike1968NM]

Car is in the garage, and will be until the detailing is done. Thanks for the tips!

[BenzDetailer]

You Will be fine with a month at below 90 degrees above 90 it will leave residue.

[Blackfire]

or up to 60 days if you use delicate surfaces tape.

[ScottB]

I personally would never leave it on for longer than needed, if it leaves some residue it should be removed rather easily as long as outside of direct heat or sunlight.

[Mike1968NM]

Makes sense......I will have the tape that was placed on the car Sunday off by tomorrow evening. I took some vacation time off and hopefully will have the car pretty much done tomorrow!