Grip tape is an important safety feature for anyone who owns or uses a treadmill. The grip tape on a treadmill is placed on either side of the running/walking surface to allow the person using the treadmill to step off the moving surface easily and safely for any reason. Over time and continual usage, the grip tape can begin to lose its effectiveness by becoming slick or losing some of the adhesive that keeps it in place. When this occurs, it is time to replace the grip tape.
Step 1
Aim a blow dryer at one short edge of the old grip tape on the treadmill. Heat the area until the edge starts to peel up.
Step 2
Grab the peeled-up edge and gently peel back the grip tape. Continue to heat ahead of the peel process to break down the adhesive bond until the grip tape comes completely off the treadmill. For any tough areas, utilize a plastic putty knife in a gentle scraping motion. Avoid ripping the grip tape by peeling it too quickly, as this may necessitate reheating an edge to peel it up by itself.
Step 3
Use gloves and a clean rag to apply paint thinner to the area to remove residual adhesive from the treadmill runner. Be sure to have a well-ventilated area for this step of the process. Let the clean surface dry for 5 minutes.
Step 4
Cut the new grip tape into the appropriate size for the runners on your particular treadmill. Use a pair of scissors or a razor knife that you will not mind having dulled quite a bit.
Step 5
Peel the adhesive guard off the back of your grip tape strips. Lay one short edge onto the treadmill runner and slowly apply the grip tape using the edge of your hand.
Step 6
Smooth out any air bubbles that may have been created when applying the grip tape by poking a tiny hole in the grip tape where the bubble is located. Smooth the surface down with the palm of your hand.
Things You'll Need
- Razor, Knife or Scissors
- Plastic Putty Knife
- Hair Dryer
- Clean Rag
- Paint Thinner
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