removing masking tape

[Thunderchild]

I have masking tape stuck to various parts of the house from a long spell of decorating. Now it won't come off too easily - any suggestions ?

[ummmm]

Wet it?

[tonyav]

Try wetting it, probably be a lot easier to peel off then.

[Thunderchild]

ok, will warm water be better ?

[humbersloop]

It's an awful job. The hairdryer trick works though.

Take it off as soon as you've painted next time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2I7BatxkfE8

[ChuckFickens]

Try soaking it with warm water.

(and use low tack tape next time, or a more economical version of low tack tape is just to use really cheap masking tape)

[humbersloop]

I've found using post-it notes is a lot easier than masking tape altogether.

You dont have such a faff getting a crisp edge as you do with a long run of tape, they come straight off easily and you can reuse them several times, so it's not as expensive as it might sound.

[heathfield]

There are different grades of masking tape, and the use different adhesives, Some can be removed with warm water, some need white spirit or methylated spirit. But 'Sticky Stuff Remover', from your local discount hardware shop will remove them all, and is handy to have around the house, too.

[Lavanyadcruz]

Start with an easy one using some warm water and a damp cloth. Wet the cloth and rub it over the dried-out tape, moistening it. Allow the moisture to work for a few minutes, then carefully peel back the tape. The warm, moist water should help soften the glue and the paper tape will peel off. You may need to use a razor blade to get rid of the residue

[Thunderchild]

My heat gun on it's 60C setting worked a treat (it does 60 or 600C)