Built to Stick: Choosing the Right Tape for the Job

How to Choose the Right Tape for the Job

From painting and masking to sealing and repairs, the right tape makes all the difference. At CEM Industrial Supply, we stock a wide range of professional-grade tapes to help you tackle every job with confidence—whether you’re painting trim, packaging shipments, or patching up a problem on the fly.

Our shelves include top-performing brands like Scotch Blue, 3M Heavy Duty, Do it Best masking tape, and high-visibility yellow and green duct tapes. We even stock 3M Multi-Use Red Tape, a standout option for fast fixes across multiple surfaces.

This guide walks you through our most popular tapes and when to use each.

Painter’s Tape: Scotch Blue Original

Best for: Interior painting, trim, clean lines

• 14-day clean removal
  
• UV-resistant
  
• Blocks paint bleed
  
• Ideal for walls, baseboards, wood, glass
  

Scotch Blue Original Painter’s Tape is the gold standard when it comes to clean, professional-looking paint jobs. Whether you’re a contractor or a weekend DIYer, this tape helps you create crisp edges without damaging the surface underneath.

Masking Tape: Do it Best General Purpose

Best for: Labeling, bundling, light-duty masking

• Easy tear by hand
  
• Writable surface
  
• Clean removal on smooth surfaces
  
• Budget-friendly for shop use
  

Do it Best masking tape is a reliable choice for general-purpose use around the shop, jobsite, or home. It’s ideal for quick fixes, labeling boxes or parts, or bundling lightweight materials.

Duct Tape: Heavy-Duty Repairs and Utility

Best for: Sealing, patching, bundling, and general repairs

Our duct tape lineup includes:

3M Heavy Duty Utility Duct Tape

• Super-strong adhesion on rough surfaces
  
• Resists moisture and weather
  
• Great for HVAC sealing, quick fixes, and shop repairs
  

3M Multi-Use Red Duct Tape

• Medium-strength adhesion
  
• Flexible and conformable
  
• Excellent for color-coded jobs or visual repairs
  

Colored Duct Tapes (Yellow, Green, etc.)

• Useful for marking, safety zones, or job-specific color codes
  
• Same heavy-duty hold as classic silver
  
• Makes taped areas stand out at a glance
  

Whether you’re wrapping a damaged pipe, sealing a toolbox, or marking zones in a warehouse, duct tape is the go-to fix-it-fast product. At CEM, we stock multiple strengths and colors so you can pick the right roll for the job.

Packaging and Sealing Tape

Best for: Shipping, storage, carton sealing

We carry strong acrylic packaging tapes that stick even in cold temps, resisting splits and tears for reliable box sealing. Dispensing tools also available for fast application.

Electrical, Foil & Specialty Tapes

Beyond the basics, we also stock:

• Electrical Tape: For insulating wires and making safe splices
  
• Foil Tape: Ideal for ductwork, HVAC systems, and heat reflection
  
• Double-Sided Tape: For mounting or crafting with a clean finish
  
• Anti-Slip Tape: Add grip to stairs, ladders, and wet areas
  

Why Get Your Tape from CEM?

When you shop at CEM Industrial Supply, you’re getting more than just tape:

• Top Brands: We only carry products we use ourselves—Scotch, 3M, Do it Best, and other trusted names.
  
• Bulk Packs Available: Need more than a roll or two? Ask about volume pricing.
  
• In-Stock Every Day: Avoid the delays—pick up what you need right here in Jackson.
  
• Helpful Staff: Not sure what to get? Our team will walk you through the best tape for your project.
  

Wrap It Up—The Right Way

Don’t risk peeling tape, smeared paint lines, or failed seals. Whether you’re painting, packing, marking, or fixing, the right tape saves time and frustration.

Stop by CEM Industrial Supply today to stock up on Scotch Blue, 3M duct tapes, Do it Best masking tape, and everything in between. We’ve got the roll you need—ready when you need it.