Plain Sponge Strip (Expanded Neoprene)
Plain sponge strip is available in a range of widths and thicknesses and supplied in 6 metre rolls. It can be used for a range of applications such as protecting glass in aluminium channels, creating watertight seals and cushioning equipment. As a closed cell material, sponge strip does not absorb water and is suitable for sealing applications on boat hatches, lockers, car boots, enclosures, and cabinets.
Also known as sponge tape, this product can be bonded onto most clean flat surfaces. We recommend using a good quality contact adhesive, such as A262, if there is a large amount of water present. This will ensure that the section has good adhesion to the underlying surface, allowing it to create a long-lasting reliable watertight seal.
Our sponge strip is manufactured from expanded neoprene which is a soft flexible material that has excellent resistance to UV, air and ozone. These characteristics allow this product to be used with confidence in a range of industries, such as automotive, marine and industrial.
All Sponge SealsFrequently Asked Questions
What is plain sponge strip used for?
Plain expanded neoprene sponge strip is commonly used for sealing, cushioning, insulating and gap-filling applications. It provides an effective barrier against draughts, dust, vibration and impact. It is suitable for both domestic and industrial environments.
Because expanded neoprene is a versatile and durable material, it is widely used in enclosure sealing, door and hatch gaskets, packing pieces, automotive trims, marine applications and general engineering tasks where a soft seal is required.
What adhesive would you recommend for bonding this sponge strip?
For bonding expanded neoprene sponge strips, we generally recommend a good-quality waterproof contact adhesive designed for rubber materials. These contact adhesives usually offer the best results, as they create a strong bond capable of handling compression and movement.
If a cleaner or more controlled application is needed, a neoprene-compatible rubber adhesive or a high-tack spray adhesive can also be suitable. Always ensure that both surfaces are clean, dry and free from dust or grease before applying adhesive for optimum performance.
Can your sponge strip be used in wet environments?
Yes, expanded neoprene sponge strip performs well in damp or wet environments. Neoprene is naturally water-resistant and has closed-cell construction so does not readily absorb water. This makes it suitable for outdoor use, marine environments and locations where it may come into contact with moisture or intermittent splashing.
However, while it is water-resistant, long-term submersion is not generally recommended unless the application is low-pressure, as prolonged immersion may affect performance depending on the installation conditions.
If you are using this strip in a wet environment, we would recommend bonding it in place using a waterproof contact adhesive such as our A262.
What is the recommended compression for your plain sponge strip?
For most sealing applications, we recommend compressing the neoprene sponge strip by around 30% of its original thickness. This level of compression allows the material to form an effective long-lasting seal without overstressing the cell structure.
Over-compression beyond 50% may reduce recovery, potentially shortening the life of the seal, while under-compression may lead to an ineffective barrier. Achieving the correct compression ensures optimum sealing performance and durability.
What is this product manufactured from and what are its properties?
This sponge strip is manufactured from expanded closed-cell neoprene, which is a durable synthetic rubber known for its excellent balance of flexibility, resilience and environmental resistance. The closed-cell structure prevents water absorption and gives the material good thermal and acoustic insulation properties.
Neoprene also offers strong resistance to weathering, UV exposure, oils, mild chemicals and general wear and tear. It remains flexible over a wide temperature range and provides reliable compression recovery, making it a dependable sealing material for both indoor and outdoor applications.