PVC Tape Alternatives for an Instant Airtight Seal

Date: 19/08/25

If you’re looking for high performance PVC tape alternatives, then you’re not alone. In fact, self-fusing silicone rubber tapes, such as 369 from SleeveIt, were first developed in the 1950s as PVC tape alternatives for the US military. But why are PVC tape alternatives needed, and what can self fusing silicone tape do that PVC tape can’t? 

Let’s take a closer look at the two tapes…

What are PVC tape and self-fusing silicone tapes?

PVC tape is made from polyvinyl chloride, usually backed with a natural or synthetic rubber glue. It is not to be confused with cheaper, BOPP tape, which is made from polypropylene and tears much more easily. PVC tape is often found in the toolbox of electricians and plumbers alike.

369 self fusing silicone tape is made from specially cured rubber with a thin layer of silicone gel. It adheres to itself when stretched, without the need for adhesive. It delivers a much higher performance than PVC tape, especially in high temperature situations.

What are the properties of PVC and self-fusing tapes?

PVC tape is a popular choice, both for electrical work and for a wider range of repairs including indoor and outdoor applications, making pipe joints watertight, repairing leaks and sealing air and vacuum hoses. It is strong and resistant to environmental conditions, operating at temperatures as low as -45°C. However, at warmer temperatures, the glue can melt, and this can result in a failure of the seal.

369 self fusing silicone tapes are ideal as PVC tape alternatives, as they offer lasting strength, performance and adhesion even at higher temperatures. 369 tape is thermally stable at a constant operating temperature of up to 180°C and can withstand short term temperatures of up to 260°C. This makes it ideal for a wide range of industrial uses, such as engine bays and manufacturing facilities, where PVC tape would simply not survive. 

As PVC tape alternatives, self fusing silicone tapes are stronger, more pliable, more elastic and so are more versatile. They are also more resistant to the type of chemicals and solvents which can compromise the glue on standard PVC tape. This means that they produce a more reliable, more dependable seal in a wide range of environments.

Other benefits of PVC tape alternatives 

In addition to the high temperature performance of 369 self fusing silicone tape, users also benefit from clean removal and repositioning of these PVC tape alternatives. Because these tapes adhere to themselves, there’s no adhesive needed and so no residue when the tape is removed. This means less cleaning and preparation during future repairs and refurbishments.

Uses of self fusing silicone tape

The remarkable performance of self fusing silicone tape PVC tape alternatives means they can be used almost anywhere, in a wide range of industrial, commercial and domestic settings.

Practical and flexible, 369 tape is the go-to solution for a range of jobs, including both planned work and reactive repairs. From water pipes and joints to airducts and hoses, from aerospace to heavy industry, from garden hoses to swimming pools, self fusing tape delivers instant, airtight and watertight repairs, reliable electrical insulation and so much more.

Extra protection

Self fusing silicone tapes are ideal PVC tape alternatives, especially when it comes to watertight hose repairs, and you can add further protection against future bursts and pinpoint hose failures by adding Flexguard Hose Burst sleeving. Available in diameters from 19mm to 89mm, this indestructible, woven nylon sleeve stays intact under even the most demanding temperatures and pressure, protecting your team from scalding and even penetrating injuries from high pressure jets.

To find out more about SleeveIt 369 self fusing silicone PVC tape alternatives, and the extra protection of Flexguard Hose Burst sleeving, get in touch with our team today.

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