Masking tape was, as its name indicates, designed to mask surfaces. Its permeable nature and tacky adhesive are problematic for most paint or caulk related projects. Painters tape, on the other hand, is much more moisture resistance and its specialized adhesive seldom leaves residue behind when the tape is removed.

Choosing the right tape and using it properly is a key part of a successful painting or caulking project.

Step 1: Choose the tape that best suits the situation. Regular or original blue painters tape will work in most instances. Choose a less-adhesive delicate surface tape for painted wood, wallpaper and surfaces where adhesive residue could be problematic. For clean lines, stripes and projects being tackled by less-proficient painters, choose a painters tape, like Frog tape, with paint blocking technology. These specially coated tapes have moisture activated polymers along their edges that turn to gel and create a barrier when latex paint or caulk touches them.

Step 2: Clean and dry the surface before applying tape to ensure proper adhesion.

Step 3: Tape corners by running the first stretch of tape along the edge of the trim, floor or ceiling. Continue the tape up the wall a short distance, at a 90-degree angle. Use a carton knife to cut the tape straight across the angle. Remove the excess portion. Start the next stretch of tape along the intersecting edge, positioning the tape firmly on top of the end of the first section, creating a perfectly protected corner.

Step 4: After each section of tape is laid, run a putty knife along its edge to adhere the tape tightly to the surface below.

Step 5: Painters tape is designed to compensate for occasional slip-ups. Paint next to the tape, not on the tape, as much as possible.

Step 6: Remove tape immediately after painting or caulking, before anything has time to dry. When applying multiple coats of paint, remove tape and re-apply it for each additional coat.

Step 7: Remove tape slowly, pulling it slightly down and away from the wall. Avoid the temptation to pull the tape up and off like a pull tab.

Step 8: If it is not possible to remove the tape immediately after painting or caulking, use a carton knife to lightly score between the wall and the tape before removing the tape, to ensure a clean, straight edge.

— Have a home improvement question for the Fix-It Chick? Email it to Linda Cottin at features@ljworld.com.