How To Make Cardboard Waterproof With Duct Tape


Cardboard is a very versatile material, unfortunately, it is not particularly versatile when it comes to dealing with water.

duct tape and cardboard box

Soggy cardboard quickly becomes unusable.

In this article, we’ll show you how to make a cardboard box more water-resistant with duct tape.

Can Duct Tape Actually Make Cardboard Waterproof?

While it may appear impossible, you can turn regular cardboard into far more water-resistant cardboard.

However, it won’t be fully waterproof.

Water-resistant cardboard can withstand water to some extent but not completely (check out some tips here on how to further waterproof cardboard).

applying duct tape to a cardboard box

You’ll find the materials you need to make your cardboard water-resistant in any store. 

You may spray the cardboard with a waterproofing spray to make it more water-resistant.

While the duct tape and spray will get the job done, they will eventually wear out.

As a result, you should repeat the procedure whenever the cardboard’s water resistance starts to break down.

Steps to Waterproof Cardboard Using Duct Tape:

If you want your cardboard to withstand water, the process is very simple.

Just follow these steps:

1. Gather Materials

First things first, you’ll need to gather the materials you’ll need. You can purchase any of these items from a nearby store.

  • Cardboard
  • Brush or clean cloth
  • Rolls of duct tape the size of the cardboard
  • Scissors
  • Waterproof spray (optional)

2. Clean The Cardboard

You’ll need to clean your cardboard to ensure that the duct tape’s adhesive sticks well.

First, wear your gloves.

Then, clean the cardboard well with a brush or a clean rag.

Ensure that no dust or threads remain on the top.

3. Wrap The Cardboard In Duct Tape

Once the board is clean, start wrapping the cardboard in duct tape.

Wrap a single layer of duct tape around the cardboard, sealing all sides except the lid.

a pile of duct tape rolls

If it’s a cardboard box rather than a sheet, cover all the seams and corners.

Each tape strip should cover the entire length of the cardboard.

This is to avoid any tape cracks that could allow water in.

If any of the layers start to peel away, you should reapply the tape.

4. Spray With Waterproof Spray

This is an optional step.

It’s, nevertheless, worthwhile because it will make your cardboard more water-resistant.

Spray both faces and edges of the cardboard with the waterproof spray and let it dry.

Depending on the spray, it can take anywhere from half an hour to a day to fully dry.

Some sprays may demand you to apply a second layer of coating.

So, read the guidelines carefully.

However, you can usually repeat the process and add extra layers of spray to be more durable.

Other Alternatives

If you don’t wish to use a waterproof spray, there are other alternatives that you can do.

The process of these methods is similar, in which you need to apply a duct tape layer first, then the product.

1. Liquid Rubber

Liquid rubber is made of silicone or polyurethane, which are waterproof materials.

When liquid rubber dries, a hard, durable coating forms around it.

This shields it from water, air, and rust. Follow these steps to know how to apply it:

  1. Put on your gloves and begin brushing your cardboard sheet or box.
  2. Wrap your cardboard with duct tape. Make sure to get the corners of the box.
  3. Spread the liquid rubber onto the cardboard using a small brush
  4. Apply the liquid rubber to the tapes as well, and let it sit in the sun for a few minutes.
  5. Add a second layer after it has dried. Allow half an hour to one hour for the liquid rubber to dry in the sun.

2. Rubber and Acrylic Paint

Acrylic and rubber paints are both cost-effective.

Rubber paint is created from polyvinyl chloride, a low-cost plastic, and synthetic rubber.

It produces a waterproof coating on the top when it dries. To apply, follow these steps:

  1. Because you’ll be using paint, cover your floor with a plastic sheet. Also, make sure you’re wearing gloves.
  2. Remove any particles or dust from the cardboard.
  3. Wrap the cardboard in duct tape
  4. If you’re using liquid paint, paint the cardboard in the same direction with a brush. If you’re using spray paint, give it a good shake before applying it to the cardboard. Keep the spray bottle about 12 inches away from the cardboard.
  5. Allow two to three hours for the initial coating to dry.
  6. When it’s dried, apply another coating and let it dry once more.

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