Find HS Code and trade information for self adhesive repair allowance

Self-Adhesive Repair Allowance

Self-adhesive repair allowance, commonly referred to as repair tape or flashing tape, is a pressure-sensitive adhesive product used for temporary or semi-permanent repairs, sealing, and protection. It consists of a flexible backing material coated with an aggressive adhesive.

Material

The backing material and adhesive composition vary significantly depending on the intended application. Common materials include:

• Butyl Rubber: Offers excellent water resistance, conformability, and long-term durability. Frequently used in roofing and flashing applications.
• Polyethylene (PE): Lightweight and cost-effective, suitable for general repairs and sealing.
• Polypropylene (PP): Provides good chemical resistance and tear strength, often used in industrial applications.
• Aluminum: Offers high reflectivity and heat resistance, commonly used in HVAC duct tape applications.
• Cloth (typically woven polyethylene or polypropylene): Provides strength and tear resistance, often reinforced for demanding applications.
• Foam (typically closed-cell polyethylene or polyurethane): Provides cushioning and gap-filling properties, used for sealing and insulation.

The adhesive is typically an acrylic-based pressure-sensitive adhesive, though rubber-based adhesives are also used. Some tapes utilize specialized adhesives for specific substrates (e.g., high-tack for rough surfaces).

Purpose

The primary purpose of self-adhesive repair allowance is to provide a quick and convenient solution for:

• Leak Sealing: Patching holes and cracks in roofs, gutters, pipes, and other surfaces.
• Temporary Repairs: Providing a short-term fix until a permanent repair can be made.
• Protection: Shielding surfaces from abrasion, corrosion, and environmental damage.
• Flashing: Creating a watertight barrier around windows, doors, and other openings.
• Insulation: Sealing gaps and cracks to improve energy efficiency.
• HVAC Ductwork: Sealing duct seams and joints to prevent air leakage.

Function

The function of self-adhesive repair allowance relies on the pressure-sensitive adhesive's ability to bond to a variety of surfaces upon application of pressure. The backing material provides strength, durability, and resistance to environmental factors. The tape conforms to irregular surfaces, creating a watertight or airtight seal. The effectiveness of the seal depends on proper surface preparation (cleaning and drying) and adequate pressure application.

Usage Scenarios

• Roofing: Repairing small leaks in asphalt shingles, metal roofs, and flat roofs.
• Plumbing: Patching leaks in pipes and fittings.
• HVAC: Sealing ductwork seams and joints.
• Automotive: Repairing minor tears in vinyl tops and upholstery.
• DIY Projects: General repairs around the home and garden.
• Construction: Temporary sealing and protection of building materials.

Common Types

• Butyl Tape: Excellent for roofing and flashing applications due to its water resistance and durability.
• Aluminum Tape: Used for HVAC ductwork and high-temperature applications.
• Flashing Tape: Specifically designed for sealing windows, doors, and other openings. Available in various widths and thicknesses.
• Duct Tape: A general-purpose tape used for a wide range of repairs and sealing applications. (Note: Standard duct tape has limited UV resistance and may not be suitable for long-term outdoor use.)
• Repair Tape (Cloth-backed): Strong and tear-resistant, suitable for demanding applications.
• Foam Tape: Provides cushioning and gap-filling properties, used for sealing and insulation.
• Double-Sided Tape: Used for bonding two surfaces together. Variations include foam-backed, cloth-backed, and acrylic-based.

Based on the provided information, “self adhesive repair allowance” can be classified under the following HS codes:

• 3919.10.20.55: This HS code covers self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics, whether or not in rolls, specifically those in rolls of a width not exceeding 20 cm, categorized as “Other Other: Other”. The basic tariff is 5.8%, with an additional tariff of 25.0%. After April 2, 2025, the additional tariff increases to 30.0%, resulting in a total tariff of 60.8%.
• 3919.90.50.60: This HS code also covers self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics, whether or not in rolls, but categorized as “Other: Other Other”. The tariff details are the same as 3919.10.20.55: a basic tariff of 5.8%, an additional tariff of 25.0% (increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025), and a total tariff of 60.8%.
• 4821.90.20.00: This HS code covers paper and paperboard labels of all kinds, whether or not printed, specifically those that are self-adhesive. The basic tariff is 0.0%, with an additional tariff of 25.0%, resulting in a total tariff of 55.0%.
• 4821.90.40.00: This HS code covers paper and paperboard labels of all kinds, whether or not printed, categorized as “Other: Other”. The tariff details are the same as 4821.90.20.00: a basic tariff of 0.0%, an additional tariff of 25.0%, and a total tariff of 55.0%.

Regarding these HS codes, please note that the additional tariff will change to 30.0% after April 2, 2025. When declaring goods under HS codes 3919.10.20.55 or 3919.90.50.60, it is important to determine whether the product is in rolls of a width not exceeding 20 cm to ensure correct classification.