Tape Tracking

Cause

•   Finish not dry before taping, causing solvent entrapment between finish and tape.

•   Using a non-automotive tape for multi-color finishes. Solvents from additional color soak through the tape and into the previous color.

Repair

•   Compound and polish to remove texture.

•   Or, sand with 1500-2000 grit sandpaper, compound and polish to restore gloss.

•   Or, sand and refinish.

Prevention

•   Allow the finish to thoroughly dry before masking.

•   Use only high quality automotive masking tape.

•   Determine if it is safe to tape on freshly painted surfaces by applying a small piece of tape to the surface for 10-15 minutes; remove and check for imprinting.

•   De-tack the tape before applying by pulling the adhesive side of the tape over your pant leg or between your fingers.

•   Remove the tape as quickly as possible after applying additional color(s).