Scotch Extreme Mounting Tape Vs. 3M VHB: Which Is Better?

When it comes to heavy duty mounting and bonding, Scotch Extreme and 3M VHB (Very High Bond) tapes are two of the most popular options.

But which one is right for your project? Here we’ll compare the key features and performance of Scotch Extreme and 3M VHB tape so you can decide which is best for your needs.

A Brief Comparison Table

Feature	Scotch Extreme	3M VHB
Adhesive	Acrylic	Acrylic foam
Thickness	0.015″	0.015″ to 0.25″
Shear Strength	400 psi	1000+ psi
Tensile Strength	70 psi	300+ psi
Temperature Range	0°F to 200°F	-40°F to 200°F
UV Resistance	Fair	Excellent
Maximum Weight	15 lb/in2	30+ lb/in2
Surfaces	Most	All including low energy
Best Uses	Home/office mounting	Industrial bonding

Overview Of Scotch Extreme Mounting Tape

Scotch Extreme Mounting Tape is an extra-strength double-sided tape made by 3M designed for the toughest mounting applications. It features a thick, conformable acrylic adhesive that grabs on contact and bonds permanently to a wide range of materials including wood, metal, glass, plastic, and painted surfaces.

Some key features of Scotch Extreme Mounting Tape include:

• Thick 0.015” adhesive for instant grab and strong bond
• Bonds permanently to most surfaces
• Can support up to 15 pounds per square inch of tape
• Can be applied at temperatures down to 32°F
• Mold and mildew resistant

The thick adhesive gives Scotch Extreme its instant grab and allows it to adhere well even on irregular or uneven surfaces.

The tape bonds so securely that it can often replace mechanical fasteners like screws and nails.

Scotch Extreme is easy to handle and can be cut with scissors to the desired shape and size. It has a red film liner that’s easily removed prior to application. The tape can stretch and flex with surfaces after applied without losing adhesion.

Overview Of 3M VHB Tape

3M VHB (Very High Bond) Tape is also an extra-strength acrylic adhesive tape designed for permanent bonding and mounting applications. It’s made from a conformable foam core and thick acrylic adhesive that provides an incredibly strong bond.

Some key features of 3M VHB Tape include:

• Bonds instantly with full adhesive strength reached in 24 hours
• Can support over 30 pounds per square inch of tape
• Withstands temperature fluctuations and UV exposure
• Bonds to high and low surface energy materials
• Utilizes advanced acrylic chemistry for strength and versatility

The viscoelastic foam core of VHB tape allows it to adapt to uneven surfaces and expand and contract with the bonded materials in different temperatures. This gives the tape the ability to form extremely strong bonds to a wide variety of materials and surfaces.

VHB tape is available in several thicknesses to suit different bonding needs. The acrylic adhesive adheres well even on low energy surfaces like plastics and powders coated metals.

Comparing Adhesive Strength And Weight Capabilities

One of the biggest differences between Scotch Extreme and 3M VHB is the adhesive strength and weight bearing capabilities.

• Shear strength: This refers to the weight the tape can hold per square inch when force is applied parallel to the surface. Scotch Extreme has a shear strength of over 400 psi, while VHB can exceed 1000 psi depending on the specific type.
• Tensile strength: The weight per square inch the tape can hold when force is applied perpendicularly. VHB has over 300 psi tensile strength compared to 70 psi for Scotch Extreme.
• Peel strength: Resistance of the adhesive against peeling forces. VHB has over 30 pounds per inch peel strength, Scotch Extreme about 15 pounds per inch.

So adhesively, the 3M VHB tape is stronger than Scotch Extreme in all measures. This allows VHB tape to support heavier loads. 3M states VHB can hold over 30 pounds per square inch compared to 15 pounds per square inch for Scotch Extreme.

Key Differences Between The Tapes

Here are some other key differences between Scotch Extreme and 3M VHB tape:

• Core: Scotch Extreme has a solid acrylic adhesive core. VHB uses a foam core that allows it to better conform to uneven surfaces.
• UV resistance: VHB holds up better than Scotch Extreme when exposed to UV light and weathering.
• Temperature range: VHB can withstand temperatures from -40°F to 200°F. Scotch Extreme is rated for 0°F to 200°F temperatures.
• Surfaces: While both tapes bond well to high and low energy surfaces, some users note VHB provides a stronger bond on plastics.
• Thicknesses: VHB comes in more thickness options from .015″ up to 1/4″ thick. Scotch Extreme is only available in .015″.
• Longevity: VHB is expected to maintain its bond strength for decades when properly applied. Scotch Extreme may lose some adhesive strength over years.

Also Read: Is 3M Exterior Attachment Tape Better Than Super Strength Molding Tape?

Primary Uses Of Each Tape

Scotch Extreme and VHB tapes are both considered permanent mounting solutions, but Scotch Extreme is generally used in more temporary or removable situations compared to VHB:

Scotch Extreme uses:

• Mounting pictures, decorative items, wire runs, cable boxes
• Attaching molding, brackets, utility hooks
• Mounting home electronics, small speakers
• Temporary repairs, crafts projects

3M VHB uses:

• Bonding metals, plastics, composites in industrial applications
• Mounting heavy objects like wood beams, metal frames
• Attaching components in electronics and appliance manufacturing
• Automotive attachments like emblem, trim, body side molding
• Permanent outdoor mounting and signs

So while Scotch Extreme works for general home/office mounting tasks, 3M VHB is preferred for permanent bonds in industrial manufacturing and assemblies.

Ease Of Use Comparison

Scotch Extreme and VHB tape are both relatively easy to work with:

• Handling: VHB is easier to handle given its foam core. Scotch Extreme is a bit stiffer.
• Cutting: Both tapes can be cut with scissors or a utility knife into custom shapes and sizes.
• Surface prep: Surfaces should be clean and dry before application. Oils, dust and particles will reduce adhesion.
• Application: Apply even pressure across the tape, ideally using a J-roller, to maximize surface contact.
• Temperature: VHB can be applied at colder temperatures than Scotch Extreme. Warming the tape and surface slightly can improve initial tack.

Overall VHB may take a bit more care to apply properly compared to Scotch Extreme, but both are reasonably easy mounting tapes to work with.

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Cost Comparison

3M VHB tapes are generally priced higher than Scotch Extreme tapes for equivalent lengths and widths. Here are some example prices:

• Scotch Extreme 1” x 60” roll: $7
• 3M VHB 1” x 60” roll: $14
• Scotch Extreme 2” x 36” roll: $9
• 3M VHB 2” x 36” roll: $24

However, VHB may provide a better value in high strength bonding applications given its superior adhesive properties and longevity compared to Scotch Extreme.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Also Read: Differences Between Ok Tape And KT Tape.

Conclusion

For heavy duty bonding and mounting applications, both Scotch Extreme and 3M VHB deliver impressive strength and versatility.

VHB is the clear winner when ultimate adhesive strength and permanence are needed to secure items like frames, panels, trim, and brackets. It’s adhesion strength surpasses Scotch Extreme.

But for more everyday mounting tasks at home or the office, Scotch Extreme is often the easier-to-use and more budget-friendly option. It provides ample tack and strength for pictures, decor, wire runs and smaller items.

So consider how much weight your application needs to support and how permanent the bond needs to be. This will help determine whether Scotch Extreme or 3M VHB is the best double-sided mounting tape for the job.