How to Choose Edge Band Tape: Thickness, Width and Shade Matching

Short answer: use 0.8mm edge band on shutters and shelves and 1mm to 2mm on edges that get knocked (counter edges, table edges, drawer fronts). Choose a width a little wider than the board: 22mm for 16–19mm boards, 30mm or more for 25mm. Bring the laminate's shade number to match the colour.

What edge band tape is

When plywood, MDF or HDHMR is cut, its edge is raw: the layers or fibres are exposed. Edge band tape is a thin PVC strip that covers this edge.

It isn't only for looks: it seals the edge so moisture can't get in. Boards absorb most of their moisture through the edges, which is why edge band matters so much on kitchen shutters and on MDF and HDHMR.

Which thickness

• 0.8mm: shutters, shelves and normal furniture
• 1mm to 2mm: edges that get knocked repeatedly: kitchen counter edges, table edges, drawer fronts

Thicker tape takes knocks better and looks good with a rounded finish.

Which width

The tape should be a little wider than the board so the extra can be trimmed after fixing:

Board thickness	Tape width
16–19mm	22mm
25mm	30mm or more

Doubled edges (two boards joined) need a wider tape.

How to match the shade

1. Bring the laminate sample or shade number to the shop.
2. Tapes come in solid colours, wood grains, marble and high gloss.
3. With a wood-grain laminate, a slightly darker shade often blends better.
4. Buy the tape for the whole job at once; a different batch can differ slightly in shade.

We stock aldo edge band in many shades: PVC edge band tape.

How much to buy

Add up the shutter perimeters and the front edges of the carcass and shelves, plus about 10%. A 6 x 7 ft wardrobe with three shutters needs about 36 m; a kitchen with 10 ft of base and 8 ft of wall cabinets about 50 m. The sheet calculator works it out with the sheets.

Two ways to apply it

• Edge banding machine: the cleanest, strongest finish; used in factories and larger workshops.
• By hand: the carpenter fixes it with a suitable adhesive and trims it. It gives a good result for home work if the surface is clean and the adhesive is right.

For the right adhesive, read Fevicol Marine vs HeatX vs SH.

Common mistakes

• Leaving MDF or HDHMR shutters in a kitchen without edge band; the edges swell with moisture
• Using very thin tape on a counter edge; it peels quickly
• Guessing the shade without a sample

For when a wooden lipping or beading is the better edge, see lipping patti, beading or edge band.

Nitin Plywood House, Alipur

Laminate, edge band, adhesive and HDHMR boards, all in one place, so shade and size match. Delivery all over Delhi. See all products.

To check whether a matching shade is in stock and today's rate, call Nitin Plywood House, Alipur on +91-9212017608. Send us the laminate shade number and we'll suggest the matching tape.