Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Masking Tape

I recently stained my deck. I used masking tape instead of the more appropriate blue tape. Because the job took me about 2 months (very large deck on a 2-flat building) the tape has been on the house for about 3 months total, maybe close to 4 months. I have tried "goo gone", "WD40", soap and water, all using a small plastic scraper to help remove the tape. I have not had success. The tape is applied to white vinyl strips that function as a trim to the vinyl siding. The tape is also applied to metal poles the run along one side of the deck. Any suggestions PLEASE :wall:

The tape should never have been left on for so long - even the blue tape shouldn't be left on more than a few days. Sunlight and moisture makes things worse.

I would try mineral spirits with LOTS of elbow grease.

great...i have come to realize that it will be hard work to get the tape off...what should i use to scrape the tape off? :alarm:

You can't do a lot of scraping without damaging the vinyl. I would try to remove most of it with a wet thinner rag. Sometimes a putty knife with a rag over the edge will help. it won't be an easy job.

try using a wallpaper perforator before you apply the solvent. maybe a mild gel type paint stripper followed by pressure washing. in any event, test your chemicals on a scrap or someplace hidden from sight. good luck

thanks for all of your tips and ideas...i have had much success removing the tape with a blow dryer...thanks again