Best Deck Joist Tape Reviews in 2024 [Top 8 Model Revealed]

Construction of a deck is an expensive project, and it’s almost always better to do the job right the first time rather than having to rebuild due to damage caused by water.

It’s important to choose the best deck joist tape to help protect your deck from water damage, which is a common problem with decks. Tape for deck joists comes in different types and offers different levels of protection.

Let’s take a closer look at some types of joist tapes and how they prevent moisture damage to the wood. We have all the information you need to choose the right tape for your innovative project, including the top 8 choices.

Here Are 8 of the Best Deck Joist Tape

Choosing the right tape for deck joists is an important job for any homeowner. It’s not just about choosing a type of joist tape, but also making sure it’s appropriate for your project and your region.

1. Imus Seal Butyl Joist Tape for Flashing Deck Joists and Beams

Protect Your Deck with Imus Seal butyl joist tape for flashing deck joists and beams. Butyl tape from Imus Seal is the premium, trusted choice of professionals and DIYers to protect your deck from water damage and rot.

The synthetic black facer beam tape has strong tear resistance and can also be molded into fasteners and corners that make it perfect for this project.

This beam tape is 50 feet long and .02 inches thick with a black synthetic facer and 20 mil butyl waterproof membrane. 30° F to 120° F application temperature and 0° F to 180° F service temperature. This is butyl tape in the USA.

This beam tape self-welding 20 mil butyl waterproof membrane will seal around nail and screw penetrations without any exposure to asphalt or VOCs which can corrode metal hardware such as joists and beam hangers.

Installing butyl deck joist tape between the metal and the wood will provide an extra layer of protection from contact with ACQ or copper azole pressure-treated wood products (both popular in parts of North America).

Highlighted Features:

• It leaves no residue adhesive on decks.
• It creates fasteners and corners.
• It is highly rated by professionals and DIYers.
• Black synthetic facer tape is tear-resistant.
• Covering joists is easy with the light 50 feet long rolls.

2. Grace Vycor Deck Protector Self Adhered Flashing

The Grace Vycor Deck Protector Self Adhered Flashing is a unique, strong solution to protect and extend the life of your deck JOIST. It is suited for use with all decking materials.

Protecto deck joist tape is to be flashed under the deck boards to prevent water damage and rot, which can lead to costly repairs. It is easy to install for both professionals and do-it-yourselfers alike.

The flashing is made of a membrane and adhesive material that helps protect decks from corrosion, skid-resistant finish for easier foot traffic when installing plus it works by preventing electricity from being run through it and reduces corrosion.

This product is designed to be used with a wide range of decking materials and is meant to be flashed under the deck boards. It has a self-adhered membrane that must be cut to length so it perfectly fits your joist openings.

This product should not be installed on top of peeling or cracked paint since this will reduce the protection of the adhesive membrane.

Highlighted Features:

• Corrosion-proof membranes and adhesives
• DIY or pro, it’s easy to install
• Prevents costly water damage repairs
• No electricity running through the joists
• Protects against corrosion and rot

3. Cofair Deck Flash Barrier (DFB375)

Cofair Deck Flash Barrier is a self-adhesive, weatherproof, fast, and easy-to-install product that covers the joists on your deck.

Designed to keep moisture out of your material, but also does just as well with corrosion prevention by creating a barrier between your decking screws and nails and an acidic surface which can ultimately lead to metal corrosion.

You will still be able to apply this wood deck joist tape at temperatures under 25 degrees Fahrenheit. ACQ treated lumber and metal surfaces can benefit greatly from the Deck Flash Barrier.

Metal surfaces can come in contact with ACQ-treated lumber and corrode over time. Cofair Deck Flash Barrier will break down that corrosion and keep it from spreading to metal surfaces like deck plates or aluminum flashing.

As an adhesive, this product works great and the tape will stick well and be able to handle those hot summer days where you might not want to touch any adhesive products. Made in the USA.

Highlighted Features:

• Self-adhesive weatherproof tape
• A quick and easy way to protect joists
• Cost-effective option on the market
• Works well on wood decks or aluminum flashings
• Made in the USA

4. Trex Protect Joist Tape SG_B01LDFEHMW_US

Trex Protect Joist Tape is a revolutionary, self-sealing solution that protects joists, beams, edge joists, and ledger boards from the development of rot and wooden decay.

This wood deck joist tape seals fasteners against moisture penetration, making it a great way to help decking screws last longer and stronger.

Tape comes in black color for discreet protection against the elements, yet it doesn’t compromise appearance or functionality.

The box of the product comes with two rollers of self-sealing tape, which can cover up to 50 feet of decking. Trex Protect Joist Tape is easy to install, requiring surface preparation and installation at temperatures of 50 degrees Fahrenheit or greater.

It also acts as a barrier between the hardwood and galvanized metal, such as hangers, preventing splitting due to freeze and thaw. This was one of the main issues people have with wood deck joist tapes.

The revolutionary butyl tape used in Trex Protect offers more strength against weather extremes without breaking or tearing like other tapes.

Highlighted Features:

• The revolutionary self-sealing deck framing tape
• Protects against rot and wooden decay
• The black color is both attractive and functional
• Installs easily and works up to 50 degrees
• Freeze and thaw won’t break the butyl tape

5. Deckwise Joist Tape Self Adhesive Deck Flashing

Deckwise Joist Tape Self Adhesive Deck Flashing offers a special tape that seals transitions and joints.

Each roll measures 3″ wide and is 75′ feet long. The specs say it has a thickness of 35-40 mils. This adhesive flashing tape is easy to apply by simply wrapping around the joist ends and over the ledger board.

Built with a rubberized asphalt adhesive it is designed to protect wood framing like joists and rafters from water damage which can lead to rot.

Wood deck framing tape protects against torque screws piercing the deck boards by sealing them and this will prevent moisture intrusion into the joist sub-frame below.

This will help prevent fungal decay in the deck boards and the protective coating from Deckwise’s Self Adhesive Deck Flashing will not leave a sticky mess.

A premium quality product that offers superior performance for many years, it bonds to treated lumber, hardwood, PVC, or pressure-treated materials without any additional treatment.

Highlighted Features:

• Prevents water damage and leaves no residue.
• Fastens to ledger boards, joists, and rafters
• With a width of 3″ and a length of 75”
• Rolls of these are cheaper than tubes of other brands
• It measures 35-40 mils in thickness

6. Cofair 3×75 Deck Flash Barrier

Cofair 3×75 Deck Flash Barrier offers superior hidden deck fasteners tape for deck installations. The water barrier helps minimize rot and prevents the bowing or warping of the beams.

This wood deck joist tape is made from tough rubber that is designed to withstand extreme conditions and delivers maximum protection against water damage. It has a waterproof layer that prevents wood rot caused by moisture.

The new super-grip rubberized adhesive sticks firmly in place, even next to posts and types of galvanized metal or aluminum connectors which would normally be susceptible to corrosion.

The tape is 3 inches wide and the easy-to-use release paper makes it simple to apply. There is a release paper on each side, making it easy to remove and apply.

Included in the package are instructions on how to apply for a deck installation. All you have to do is peel off the protective paper on the back and press it firmly around posts, joists, or along ledger boards.

Highlighted Features:

• Protects against rot and prolongs durability
• Super-grip rubberized adhesive sticks firmly in place
• 3-inch width for maximum protection
• Easy to remove and reapply
• Protects against damage caused by water

7. MFM Building Deck Wrap Powerbond

With so many benefits to using deck framing tape, you need the best product on the market to do the job. Getting anything less than high-quality can damage your decking or require you to order more products because it didn’t work in the first place.

Make sure that you get MFM Building Deck Wrap Powerbond. It is 25 millimeters thick and has a special anti-slip grip adhesive to keep it firmly in place when installed properly.

Temperature resistance is between 35°F and above, so you don’t have to worry about being unable to install it during colder months.

That means that even without screws, this powerband will stay secure for years of use in rough weather conditions. The price is also very affordable, so you can get enough for your whole deck without breaking the bank.

There are other advantages as well like its resilience against UV light thanks to polyethylene construction and ability not to irritate skin thanks to its rubberized texture.

Highlighted Features:

• Prevents moisture damage to deck joists
• Promotes longer deck life by protecting wood
• Easy installation with self-gripping adhesive
• Comes in 25-millimeter thickness to prevent leaks
• Made in the USA

8. Timbertech Pro Tac Joist Tape

Timbertech Pro Tac Joist Tape is a heavy-duty, flexible, all-weather flashing and it developed with the goal of extending the use of decking and substructures.

Pro-Tac is an adhesive tape that can be used on both sides of joists for added protection from water penetration that leads to wood rot. It can withstand use in temperatures ranging anywhere from -70 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

With this all-weather tape, you will never have to worry about how extreme the temperatures become or any type of harsh environmental conditions like rain and snowstorms.

Timbertech tapes come equipped with superior seals that prevent water from penetrating and shield upper lumber joints/joist corners against decay caused by exposure to moisture.

Due to the strong adhesive that is used, this deck framing tape will not tear easily while being worked with. It also won’t bunch up or bind when you are attaching it.

Highlighted Features:

• Heavy duty and flexible
• All-weather flashing and joist straps
• The temperature range is -70 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit
• Prevents timber joint decay caused by moisture penetration
• Comes with a strong adhesive that won’t tear or bind

We recommend these deck joist tapes because they are the best on the market. All of them are effective methods of protecting your decking joists against harsh conditions. Consequently, how do you pick out the right deck joist protector tape?

Buying Guides for Decking Joist Tape

Choosing the right tape for deck joists can be a difficult process, but it’s important to get it right. If you use the wrong type of tape on your wood joists, your wood may rot or decay and may even leak in extreme weather. To avoid this problem, take these steps:

Material

You must be sure to buy the type of construction tape that is made for protecting wooden surfaces from damage. Some tapes are designed specifically for rough conditions while others are great for general purpose use.

Installation

You also need to consider how you plan to install the tape. Some require screws and other adhesives while others attach without any hassle. Some tapes are self-gripping, which means they hold themselves in place.

Super Grip

You may want to take a look at super grip decking tape. These products work well even when temperatures fall below freezing and they can be installed without any screws or tools.

High-quality super grip tapes also stay in place for years, even in harsh weather conditions like rainstorms and snowstorms.

Thickness

You should also consider the thickness of the tape. Most joists are between 5/8 and 3/4 inches thick, so it’s important to get a tape that is about 1 inch wide.

A wider tape ensures that you will have enough area to fully protect your joist from water leaks.

Available Widths

You should take a look at the different widths available. We recommend that you buy tapes that are between 1 and 2 inches wide to ensure they fit on your joist perfectly.

Coverage

Another thing to take into consideration is the coverage length. The more feet of tape that you buy, the bigger your job will be. Make sure you have enough space before buying an excessively long roll.

Durability

Check to see how durable the tape is. You don’t want it coming apart or peeling at the edges with just one use. Look for heavy-duty tapes that are made out of high-quality materials and reinforced with strong adhesives.

Reputation

Also, some deck framing tapes have great reviews from customers on the internet. These reviews will give you a better idea of how well the tape holds up and whether or not it works as advertised.

Affordability

Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend. Some tapes can be expensive, but they may work better than the others that are available on the market.

Be sure not to overspend too much money as there are some great options out there for a lower price.

Types of Joist Deck Tape

There are generally three types of tape used for joists:

1. Acrylic Tape (G Tape)

G tape is the most common type of deck tape on the market today. G tape has a self-gripping feature, which means it holds itself in place without you having to secure it with screws or adhesive.

2. Butyl Tape

This is an excellent choice, especially for extreme temperatures. It’s extremely weather-resistant and works even in subzero conditions without tearing or coming apart.

3. Bitumen Tape

This type of tape is used for harsh weather conditions and it has a strong adhesive that won’t tear or come loose even during rainstorms, snowstorms, and other bad weather.

Other types of tape used for construction

Flashing Tape

Flashing tape is a type of self-adhesive tape that is used for flashing, vapor barriers, and waterproofing. Flashing tape is lightweight and easy to use with only one stripper joist.

Flashing tape often comes in black or white and it can be covered with roofing material to enhance the look of your home. Flashing tape is a great choice for decks or spas and hot tubs to prevent any wood rot.

Flashing tape comes in a variety of widths, including 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, and 4 inches wide.

Lowes Deck Joist Tape

Another type is lowes decking tape, which is a great choice and it comes in a wide variety of widths and lengths. It’s also quite affordable and easy to install.

How Do You Use Deck Joist Tape?

Without proper installation, the tape won’t work as it is supposed to. Here’s how you can install your construction tape:

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

Start by making sure the surface is clean and clear of any debris, dirt, or dust. If there is any, use a broom to brush it away.

Step 2: Measure the Tape

Grab your tape and measure it with a measuring tape to ensure you have enough. Different types come in different widths, so be sure to get the size that is appropriate for your joist.

Step 3: Apply the Tape

Squeeze a bead of adhesive or cement on the side of the joist and start laying it down at one end of the joist. Press firmly as you lay it down and smooth out any bubbles that may appear.

Step 4: Fold Edges Over Sides

Fold the edges of the tape over the sides so no water can seep underneath. Then, use your finger to press the tape firmly on both sides.

Step 5: Smooth the Tape

Use a damp, lint-free cloth to smooth out any air bubbles or folds in the tape. Then, leave it for one hour before filling your joists and beams with insulation.

Deck Joist Tape Alternative

If you find yourself in a situation where the suitable tape is not available but you need to fix it immediately, then you may use the following items.

Seal Deck Joists

This is an excellent alternative to joists and beams tape. It is a long rubber strip with screw holes on each end. Simply drill through the screw holes and secure them with deck screws, nails, or some other type of fastener.

Liquid Rubber

This is another alternative to hidden deck fasteners tape. Simply apply some on the surface and cover it with a piece of plywood or sheet metal to protect it from getting wet.

Coil Stock

This is a flat piece of rubber with interlocking teeth. Simply wrap it around the joists and beams and secure it with nails or deck screws.

Joist Caps

This is another alternative to deck frame tape. Simply attach the caps to the ends of your joists to keep water out and protect it from damage.

Old Motor Oil

If you have some old motor oil lying around, then this is another alternative to joists and beams tape. Simply pour it onto the surface of the joists and cover it with a pail. The oil will seep in through the crevices and prevent water from getting inside your outdoor living space or basement.

After all, it’s highly recommended to use joist tape if possible as it is the best type of tape to keep your deck protected from wetness and rot.

What to Use for Deck Joist Tape?

Actually, there are three main reasons why it’s necessary to use joist tape on your deck.

1. To Keep Your Deck Protective

If you want to keep your outdoor living space protected from moisture, then deck tape is the best way to do it. It’s the most efficient method that keeps water out, which prevents warping and improves the lifespan of your wood.

2. To Prevent Rotting

The adhesive or cement on the tape works as a sealant to protect your wood from moist rot. Without it, you risk having your joists rotting away or warping, which can lead to serious structural damage.

3. To Keep Your Deck Boards Safe

The lack of tape on deck support posts is the number one reason for deck collapses and accidents that cause injury. It’s crucial to keep your wood safe and protect it from damage so you can prevent accidents.

FAQs

The following are some frequently asked questions about tape for deck support posts that you might have:

1. Is Deck Joist Taping Necessary?

Yes, it is necessary. It’s important to keep your structure protected from moisture damage by using deck frame tape.

This prevents warping or rotting of the wood which can lead to structural damage and keeps your structure safe for you and anyone else who may be around.

2. What Can I Do to Make My Deck Last Longer?

The best thing you can do for your deck building is to protect it with deck substructure tape. This makes sure that no water penetrates underneath where it can seep into the wood and cause warping or rotting.

Any kind of beam tape is a great way to extend the life of your beams. Beam tape is a type of wood tape that prevents moisture damage to beams.

3. Is Zip Tape Suitable for Deck Joists?

Yes, it is suitable, but only if you’re using the same type of tape that’s made with adhesive. This way, it’ll work as a sealant and protect your deck building from rain damage.

4. Is Flashing Tape Similar to Joist Tape?

The only similarity is that both are made with adhesive and work as a sealant for your siding. Flashing tape, however, has more of a waterproof purpose and it’s used to protect your roof.

5. How Do I Use Deck Joist Flashing Tape?

You simply use flashing tape in the same way you would with deck substructure tape. Flashing tape works best because it has adhesive on both sides and covers a larger surface area than other types of tape.

6. Will Duct Tape Work as Deck Joist Tape?

No, duct tape won’t work as joist tape. It’s not suitable for protecting your deck against water because its adhesive is too weak and it falls off after a while.

7. Is Deck Joist Covering Tape Needed on Pressure Treated Wood?

Yes, it is still needed. The pressure-treated wood can still be affected by water which will eventually seep through to the core of the wood in your joists if you don’t use joist tape.

8. Is Joist Tape Recommended for Use with Composite Decking?

Yes, joist tape can be used with composite decking. It’s important to use an appropriate type of tape that will protect the wood from moisture damage and to always check the manufacturer’s instructions before you purchase it.

Final Thoughts

Now you know all about deck tape, and why it is absolutely vital that you use it to protect your deck from rot and decay. You want to make sure you don’t waste money on a product that won’t last or doesn’t work well.

All of the options listed above are great because they will not tear or bunch up when you install them. Taking all this into account should help you choose the best deck joist tape for your joists.