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Butyl Tape vs Butyl Sealant: What's the Difference?

Butyl tape and butyl sealants are both used to create watertight seals, but they are designed for very different applications. Choosing the right one depends on the type of joint, surface, and installation method.

What's the difference?

Butyl Tape

  • Thin, flexible, adhesive-backed material
  • Used between flat or overlapping surfaces
  • Designed for surface sealing applications
  • Easy to cut and apply

Butyl Joint Sealant

  • Thick, rope-like material
  • Used in concrete joints
  • Creates a compression-based watertight seal
  • Designed for structural or underground applications
Feature Butyl Tape Butyl Joint Sealant
Form Tape (flat) Rope (thick)
Application Surface sealing Concrete joints
Installation Adhesive placement Compression type fit
Best For Panels, ducts, seams Precast, underground

Recommended Products

Crete-Stik

A butyl bitumen blend sealant that is compliant to ASTM C990 in rope form.

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EX 208 Butyl Tape

A highly adhesive, tacky butyl tape designed to bond to a wide range of surfaces.

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EX 281 Trimmable Butyl

Is a flexible, trimmable butyl tape designed for sealing irregular or uniquely shaped joints.

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