Rain guards, alternatively known as window deflectors or vent visors, are unarguably essential car accessories. They protect you from rain, wind, and even the blazing sun while you enjoy your ride. These unsung heroes are enough to maintain a perfect atmosphere in your car, irrespective of the external climatic conditions.
However, one crucial element that plays a significant role in their impeccable performance is the type of adhesive used to affix them. It is the adhesive that contributes to the sturdiness and durability of these guards. In this blog post, I will be sharing with you the three best adhesives for rain guards based on my experience and the challenges during their installation and ongoing usage.
Understanding the Role of Adhesive in Rain Guards
The adhesive used on your rain guard defines how securely the rain guard adheres to your vehicle. A solid adhesive ensures that the rain guard won’t fall off while driving at high speeds or during harsh weather conditions. But remember – not every adhesive is suitable for this job!
To narrow down your best options, I have personally reviewed and tested a few adhesives and have identified the top three.
1. 3M Super Strength Molding Tape
I found 3M Super Strength Molding Tape to be exceptionally impressive due to its robust adhesion property.
Pros:
- The tape offers easy, mess-free application with no drying time required.
- It is bound to offer long-lasting repairs. I have never faced any issues related to the wearing off of this adhesive.
- The tape is highly resistant to moisture, temperature variations, chemicals and UV light, ensuring the firm attachment of rain guards in every situation.
Cons:
- The only challenge I faced was during its removal. It leaves a sticky residue behind that requires a little time and effort to remove completely.
2. Gorilla Heavy Duty Double Sided Mounting Tape
The next on my list is the Gorilla Heavy Duty Double Sided Mounting Tape, which offers brilliant performance and great convenience.
Pros:
- This super-strength tape does not leave any residue on removal, making it one of my personal favorites.
- It can hold weight up to 30 pounds, which means it works perfectly even on heavily tinted rain guards.
- The tape also has the benefit of being crystal clear and invisible on apply, hence no spoiling the aesthetics of your car.
Cons:
- The only complication I had with this tape was the adherence performance under extreme cold weather.
3. Scotch Permanent Outdoor Mounting Tape
Lastly, we have the Scotch Permanent Outdoor Mounting Tape that is quite effective for securing rain guards.
Pros:
- This double-sided tape exhibits excellent holding power even under adverse weather.
- Being highly versatile and strong, it’s suitable for various outdoor applications.
- It ensures effortless and clean installation, making it a user-friendly choice.
Cons:
- The only downside I observed was the difficulty in application due to it being overly sticky.
In conclusion, choosing the right adhesive for your rain guards can make a huge difference in their performance and aesthetics. Your vehicles are a significant investment, and with the right products, you can prevent costly repairs and enjoy the comfort of your ride no matter the weather!
Choose wisely and drive safely!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What kind of tape is used for rain guards?
The most commonly used tape for rain guards is automotive-grade double-sided adhesive tape. This tape is designed to withstand exposure to varying weather conditions and provide a strong bond between the rain guards and the vehicle’s surface. It is highly adhesive, durable, and resistant to temperature changes, ensuring a reliable attachment.
2. What can I use to stick on window visors?
Double-sided adhesive tape is the recommended option for attaching window visors. This tape is often included with the visors, as it is specially designed for automotive applications. It offers strong adhesion and is formulated to withstand the elements, ensuring a secure and long-lasting bond between the visors and the vehicle’s windows.
3. What tape is used on vent visors?
Similar to window visors, vent visors also utilize automotive-grade double-sided adhesive tape for installation. This tape is designed to withstand exposure to wind, moisture, and temperature changes, ensuring the vent visors remain firmly in place. The specific tape required may vary depending on the brand and model of the vent visors, so it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
4. How do you install window rain guards?
To install window rain guards (also known as window deflectors), follow these steps:
- Clean the window frame thoroughly using a mild soapy solution to remove any dirt, dust, or oil.
- Dry the surface completely using a clean cloth or towel.
- Measure and align the rain guard properly on the window frame to ensure a correct fit.
- Peel off the protective backing from the adhesive side of the rain guard.
- Press the rain guard firmly onto the window frame, making sure it adheres evenly along the entire length.
- Apply pressure to the rain guard for a few minutes to help the adhesive bond effectively.
- Avoid rolling down the windows for at least 24 hours to allow the adhesive to fully set and ensure a secure installation.
- Repeat the process for each window where rain guards are being installed.
It is important to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions provided with the rain guards for any specific guidelines or additional steps.
