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University of Hull flood tests find tape more effective than sandbags
Overview
Research conducted at the University of Hull's property flood resilience laboratory has found that widely available gaffer and duct tapes are more effective at preventing low-level water leakage through doors than traditional sandbags. Testing replicated 2ft of water depth, showing flexible synthetic rubber tape reduced leakage by 99% and duct tape by 97 to 98%, compared to 70% for sandbags. Experts note that while tape provides an accessible emergency measure, it does not replace permanent flood resilience installations.
Key points
- Tests at the University of Hull showed flexible synthetic rubber tape reduced door water leakage by 99% and duct tape by 97 to 98%.
- Traditional sandbags reduced water leakage by 70% during the laboratory tests.
- The experiments were limited to water depths of up to 2ft (600mm), replicating low-level flooding scenarios.
- Researchers found that taped outward-opening doors performed better than inward-opening doors.
- The research was commissioned by Flood Re, a joint initiative between the UK government and the insurance industry.