Duck Tape or Duct Tape?

Known and loved for its versatility, durability and cult-like following, duct tape (or duck tape) has been ‘sticking around’ North America for more than six decades.

But what is the real name of this favorite tool – duct tape or duck tape? If you take an informal poll of duct tape/duck tape users, it’s likely they will be spilt in whether they believe the true name of the product is duct tape or duck tape.

To find the answer, it is necessary to look at the tape’s history, beginning in the early 1940s when adhesive tape was modified by the Permacel Division of Johnson and Johnson for use in World War II. The armed forces needed a tough adhesive tape to prevent moisture from seeping into ammunition cases – the answer was an army green colored version of today’s duct tape/duck tape. Like many of today’s duct tape users, military staff found other uses for the tape, which went on to be used for a number of military purposes including fixing guns, patching jeeps and even aircraft! However, because the new wonder tape proved so useful as a waterproof adhesive, it was often referred to as ‘duck tape’. The duck tape nickname was also a nod to the cotton duck used in the manufacturing of the tape.

Following the war, the aptly monikered duck tape was used to attach heating and air conditioning duct work in the post war housing boom, ergo the current duct tape name.

Confusing the name issue even further, today’s many shades of duct tape are sold under the brand name – you guessed it – Duck Tape.

Whether you want to call it Duck Tape, Duct Tape or simply a fabulous household tool, there is no doubt this incredible product has left an indelible mark on North American pop culture.

Home improvement sources:
Material handling guide
Regular tools
Home repairs and honey do's
Second list of honey do's, incase you got off easy with the first list
Clothing for normal people :-)

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