PVC Insulation Tape

PVC insulation tape is a flexible, self-adhesive electrical tape used to insulate, bind and colour code conductors and cable joints. We stock it in black, red, blue, brown, grey, white, yellow, green and green/yellow, so you can identify phases, neutrals and earths at a glance.

Alongside the coloured rolls you will find Olympic Fixings all-purpose gaffer tape and Unicrimp underground electrical warning tape for marking buried cable routes. Trade prices apply on account, and stock items ordered before the 5pm cut-off are delivered the next working day across Northern Ireland and the Republic.

093-300-005 In-Stock

Olympic Fixings All Purpose Gaffer Tape

£6.13 inc. VAT

F1920/Y In-Stock

Yellow PVC Insulation Tape

£0.67 inc. VAT

F1920/BK In-Stock

Black PVC Insulation Tape

£0.67 inc. VAT

F1920/BL In-Stock

Blue PVC Insulation Tape

£0.67 inc. VAT

F1920/BR In-Stock

Brown PVC Insulation Tape

£0.67 inc. VAT

F1920/E In-Stock

Green/Yellow PVC Insulation Tape

£0.67 inc. VAT

F1920/G In-Stock

Green PVC Insulation Tape

£0.67 inc. VAT

F1920/GRY In-Stock

Grey PVC Insulation Tape

£0.67 inc. VAT

F1920/R In-Stock

Red PVC Insulation Tape

£0.67 inc. VAT

F1920/W In-Stock

White PVC Insulation Tape

£0.67 inc. VAT

QUGT100X200 In-Stock

Unicrimp QUGT100X200 Underground Electrical Warning Tape 100mmx2

£23.65 inc. VAT

Choosing and using electrical tape

Insulation tape is one of the cheapest items in the van, but picking the right type and colour still matters. The guide below covers what is in this range and where each product fits.

Tape types in this range

PVC insulation tape for insulating and identifying conductors, tidying bundles and adding a protective layer over terminations.
Gaffer tape for general-purpose temporary fixing, holding cables to floors at events and on site, and quick repairs to coverings.
Underground warning tape laid in trenches above buried cables to warn anyone digging that services are below.

Colour coding

Coloured tape lets you re-identify conductors, for example marking a conductor as a switched line or flagging the earth with green/yellow. Follow the current harmonised colours (brown, black and grey for line conductors, blue for neutral and green/yellow for protective conductors) and check current wiring regulations before re-identifying any conductor. Green/yellow should only be used to mark protective conductors.

Practical application tips

Clean and dry surfaces before taping. Stretch the tape slightly and overlap each turn by about half its width, finishing without tension so the end does not lift. Tape is useful for insulating and tidying, but it is not a substitute for a proper joint: for permanent cable repairs use heat shrink, crimp connectors or a resin joint kit. For non-electrical jobs, our adhesive tapes range covers other uses.

Ordering from Meteor

Stock up on tape alongside the rest of your order from our 5,000+ product range. Free delivery applies over £30 / €35 ex VAT, Great Britain orders take 3 to 5 working days, and our sales team is on 028 8675 1515 (048 8675 1515 from ROI), weekdays 8am to 5pm.

FAQ's Ask Your Own Question

What is PVC tape used for?: A: PVC tape, also known as vinyl electrical tape, is primarily used for electrical insulation. It provides a durable and reliable means of protecting electrical wires and connections, ensuring safety and preventing short circuits. PVC tape is also used for color-coding, bundling wires, and minor repairs.
Can PVC tape withstand high temperatures?: A: PVC tape can withstand a range of temperatures, typically up to around 80°C (176°F). However, for high-temperature applications, it is advisable to check the specific temperature rating of the PVC tape you are using, as some varieties are specially designed to handle higher temperatures.
Is PVC tape flame-retardant?: A: Most high-quality PVC tapes are flame-retardant, meaning they are designed to resist catching fire and will self-extinguish if ignited. Always check the product specifications to ensure the tape meets your safety requirements.
Can I use PVC tape for automotive repairs?: A: Yes, PVC tape is commonly used in automotive repairs for insulating wires, bundling cables, and protecting electrical connections. Its flexibility, durability, and resistance to abrasion make it suitable for use in the demanding environment of a vehicle.
How do I apply PVC tape correctly?: A: To apply PVC tape correctly, start by cleaning and drying the surface where the tape will be applied. Begin wrapping the tape around the wire or object, overlapping each layer by about half the tape's width. Stretch the tape slightly as you wrap to ensure a tight and secure fit. Finish by pressing down firmly to secure the end of the tape.
Is PVC tape safe for electrical insulation?: A: Yes, PVC tape is specifically designed for electrical insulation and is safe to use for this purpose. It provides good dielectric strength, meaning it effectively prevents electrical current from passing through, thus protecting against short circuits and electrical shock.
Can PVC tape be used on plumbing pipes?: A: While PVC tape is primarily designed for electrical applications, it can be used for minor temporary repairs on plumbing pipes. However, it is not recommended for permanent plumbing solutions, especially for high-pressure or high-temperature pipes, as it may not provide a long-lasting seal.
What colours does PVC tape come in?: A: PVC tape is available in a variety of colors, including black, red, blue, yellow, green, and white. These colors are often used for color-coding electrical wires and circuits to easily identify different phases, voltages, or functions within an electrical system.
How do I remove PVC tape residue?: A: To remove PVC tape residue, you can use a cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol or a commercial adhesive remover. Gently rub the affected area until the residue dissolves and comes off. Always test the solvent on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not damage the underlying surface.
What is the difference between insulation tape and gaffer tape?: Insulation tape is made from PVC designed to provide electrical insulation and stretch tightly around conductors. Gaffer tape is a cloth-backed tape for temporary fixing, such as holding leads to a floor, and is not intended to insulate live parts. Use PVC insulation tape for electrical work and gaffer tape for general site tasks.
What is underground electrical warning tape used for?: Underground warning tape is laid in a trench above buried cables so that anyone excavating later uncovers the tape before reaching the cable. It is typically printed with a warning message. The depth it is laid at and any specific colour requirements depend on the network operator or project specification, so check before backfilling.
Is insulation tape a permanent repair for a damaged cable?: No, insulation tape should not be relied on as a permanent repair for damaged cable sheath or insulation. A damaged cable is usually replaced or properly jointed with a suitable connector, heat shrink or resin joint kit. Tape is best used for identification, bundling and adding a supplementary layer over a sound connection.