Which tape is suitable for trade shows?
Exhibition productions place high demands: the tape must hold throughout the entire stand period, be easy to remove afterwards, and not damage the surface. The correct choice depends on the substrate, exposure time, and what the tape needs to hold – there is no universal solution, and the wrong tape costs more than the right tape.
Gaffer tape – the backbone of every trade show rigging
tesa 4671 - 49.2mm x 50mis the industry standard for professional trade show rigging. High adhesive strength, easy hand-tearing, and reliable performance even in warm exhibition halls. The matte black surface does not reflect light and photographs well – an important detail when the aesthetics of the stands matter. Used for everything from taping cables along stand legs to attaching backdrops and concealing joints.
For beMatrix walls and rail systems, there is Gaffer tape 61mm wide – beMatrix, custom-made to precisely cover the beMatrix profile without cutting. The result is clean and professional straight from the roll.
If you need a softer cloth tape alternative for set design and surface mounting, Etab 3336 All-round Cloth Tapeis a cost-effective choice with good tensile strength.
Double-sided tape for exhibition floors and fixings
tesa 4939is the standard choice for temporary fixing of carpets and runners on the exhibition floor – strong enough to hold under traffic, but removable without leaving marks on most common exhibition hall surfaces.
For more demanding fixings – heavier exhibits, podiums, and mountings that need to hold throughout the exhibition week – tesa 4964is the right choice. It is one of the strongest double-sided tapes on the market for smooth surfaces and is used by professionals when failure is not an option.
Orafol 1450is the first choice for more sensitive surfaces – lacquered wooden floors, linoleum, and PVC coatings where more aggressive adhesive systems risk damaging the surface.
Masking tape for marking and protection
Etab 610is a cost-effective choice for zone marking, edge protection, and temporary marking during assembly. WashiPro Etab 136 – Yellowis clearly visible and used by riggers to mark safety distances and cable routes during construction – and is removable without residue afterwards.
Velcro tape for reusable fixings
Velcro tape 50mm x 25mis the right choice when you need to attach and detach banners, panels, or cable bundles repeatedly during the exhibition period. The material can withstand handling and can be reused event after event, which lowers material costs per installation. Velcro tape 30mm x 25mcovers lighter fixings and cable management in the stand.
Frequently asked questions about tape for trade shows
What is the difference between gaffer tape and double-sided tape for exhibition use?
Gaffer tape (single-sided) is used for attaching, binding, and concealing – visible tape that should look professional. Double-sided tape is used invisibly, primarily to fix floors, signs, and exhibits to surfaces.
Can I use the same tape on all exhibition floors?
No – the substrate determines the choice. Carpeting requires different tape than polished concrete or wooden floors. Contact us if you are unsure, and we will recommend the right product for your specific hall.
How long does the tape last at a trade show?
tesa 4671and tesa 4939are designed for 3–7 days of continuous use under normal indoor conditions. Extreme heat or humidity affects performance – always test on a new surface during initial installation.
