With so many options available for reflective tape, choosing the best one for your application may be difficult. Below you will find a helpful guide to choosing the best reflective tape.
Regulation requirements.
If you are required to meet a specification be sure the tape you choose comes imprinted with the regulation code designation. Viewing distance. Consider the typical application and how far away this tape will need to reflect light to be clearly visible.
Durability
Quality adhesive and a well made tape will cost less in maintenance than replacing a less expensive version in a few years.
Flexibility.
Will the application include bending or stretching tape around an irregular surface like a vehicle bumper? In general, the classification of the best reflective tape is ranked by Type. Type 1 - 9 progressively will be visible from a greater distance.
Reflective Tape Type and Name | Brightness (white) | Special Characteristics |
---|---|---|
Engineer Grade Type I | 80-100 Candelas | Flexible with very little stretch. |
Flexible Engineer Grade Reflective Tape Type I | 80-100 Candelas | Flexible and will stretch. Especially when warmed. |
High Intensity Color Reflective Tape Type III | 250+ Candelas | Flexible with no stretch. |
Superbrite White or Yellow High Intensity Reflective Tape Type IV | 500+ Candelas | Flexible with no stretch. |
Neonbrite High Intensity Reflective Tape Type VIII | 700+ Candelas | Flexible with no stretch. |
7 Year Economy DOT-C2 Reflective Tape Type VIII | 700+ Candelas | Stiffer, Thicker Film. Will not stretch. Very similar to a diamond grade tape. |
SOLAS Reflective Tape | 900+ Candelas | Thin and Flexible. Will not stretch. Extra aggressive adhesive. |