Technical question about dap and tape.

[TicklePits]

So I know to wait a few minutes after applying DAP, wait a few days to let the dap cure, etc... I read that the way it cures is that the solvents in dap evaporate through the foam so you are left with a strong adhesion (alric mentioned this on a dag forum). So my question is: should I wait until the dap cures to tape everything up, or can I do it right away? I figure the tape might stop the evaporation and trap the solvents inside. Maybe this isn't a problem with typical cloth tape, but I often use some heavy duty stuff that's more like matte duct tape. Thanks.

[Sir Thurat]

You're correct on how the curing process works. If you do full length taping on the flat of the weapon, then I would wait a bit for the DAP to cure before taping. If you are more conservative in your taping, then the amount of tape you're using is miniscule and shouldn't affect the process, so it's fine to tape right away. I've worked both ways in my years as a foamsmith, and I can't say that I've noticed any longevity losses or benefits either way, but that's the advice I've received from persons far more adept than I in weapon crafting.

[Plithut]

If for some reason you are taping your flats RIGHT AFTER Dap, just pop 2-3 holes in it to allow the vapors to "breath" and cure.