We’ve noticed that some churches have fabric chairs that have been treated with Scotchgard or other fabric protectants. While Scotchgard is great for protecting fabric from spills and stains, it can sometimes make it more challenging for adhesives to bond long-term.
Why This Matters
Fabric protectants create a barrier that resists liquids and dirt. That same barrier can also resist adhesives, which may cause TapDots to peel or lose their bond sooner than expected.
What You Should Do
If your chairs have been treated with Scotchgard (or you’re not sure if they have), here are some important steps:
Test first with a sample pack
Never place a large order until you’ve tested TapDots on your actual chairs. Our sample pack includes different adhesives so you can confirm which option performs best.Test for a longer period
While most adhesives show strong results after 24 hours, Scotchgard-treated chairs may need a longer testing period (5–7 days) to see if the bond holds up.Check for deterioration
Even if the TapDots seem to hold at first, watch for signs of peeling or weakening over the course of a week. Scotchgard can sometimes break down adhesive slowly.Consider surface prep
Cleaning the chair backs with an alcohol wipe before applying can help remove surface residues and improve adhesion.
Final Recommendation
If your chairs are Scotchgard-treated, please allow extra time when testing your TapDots. This step will save you frustration and help ensure you’re ordering the adhesive option that will work best for your environment.
If you’re unsure whether your chairs are treated or if you’d like advice on which adhesive to use, feel free to reach out to our team. We’ll be happy to walk you through the testing process.