When thinking of cable ties, nylon cable ties may come to mind first due to their extensive properties. However, are these the best cable ties for outdoor use? If you are using cable ties for an outdoor project, then you owe it to yourself to understand why UV resistant cable ties will be the right fit for your job.

Below, we’re going to look into the different features, uses and applications of UV & heat resistant cable ties.

What are UV Resistant Cable Ties?

UV resistant cable ties are a variation of standard cables with extended properties, best suited for withstanding and resisting harsh temperatures and outdoor conditions.

They are made from nylon, which is a tough material with good thermal and abrasion resistance. It meets UL 94 V-2 flammability ratings and has a working temperature range from -40°C to 85°C.

After being introduced in 1956, cable ties have been praised for their balance of properties and flexibility to be used in various industries and environments.

These UV resistant cable ties have greater resistance to ultraviolet exposure in outdoor usage, making them suitable for use in various industries for interior and exterior environmental conditions.

Why Use UV Resistant Cable Ties?

UV resistant cable ties are made to be able to resist harsh exposure to the great outdoors, like the sun. As the sun can break down the compounds in cable ties, causing their colour to fade, material to break down, and become fragile.

If you have a job or project that requires outdoor tools & supplies, UV resistant cable ties are the best for outdoor applications because they are specifically designed to offer UV resistance, which will help protect the cable ties against harsh sun rays.

UV resistant cable ties are great for outdoor applications because of their key material properties: 

• Made from UL-approved Nylon 6/6

• UL 94V-2 flame rating

• Working temperature range: -40°C to +85°C (standard)
  or up to +120°C for heat-stabilised versions

• Higher carbon content (~2%) for UV protection

All sizes have excellent strength and holding power, however, strength does vary depending on individual sizing. You can find more information available on our UV resistant cable ties page.

Characteristics of UV Resistant Cable Ties

UV resistant cable ties have higher carbon content about 2% for greater resistance to ultraviolet exposure in outdoor usage, making them suitable for a multitude of uses in various industries for indoor and outdoor environmental conditions.

Whereas, standard cable ties offer some UV resistance but generally only contain around 1% of carbon. They can be used in continuous or extended exposure to outdoor use. At GTSE, UV resistant cable ties are available only in black and white (green tint).

Features

• UV-resistant black and white (green tint) cable ties 

• Available in a wide range of sizes

• Made from UL approved Nylon 6/6, 94V-2

• Easy application either manually or with a tensioning/cutting tool

• Bent tail for easier use

• Resistant to external agents

• Contain a minimum of 2% carbon

• Working temperature range: -40°C to +120°C

 

UV Resistant Cable Ties vs Standard Cable Ties:

Feature	Standard Nylon Ties	UV Resistant Nylon Ties
Carbon content	~1%	2%+
UV exposure rating	Low	High
Outdoor lifespan	Months	5–10 years
Colour	Natural / Various	Black / UV-stable white
Outdoor durability	Poor	Excellent

What are UV Resistant Cable Ties Used For?

UV resistant cable ties are the ideal option for high ultraviolet environments. These ties are specifically manufactured to be used for continuous or extended exposure to outdoor use and UV light specially. For outdoor applications, you need cable ties that can stand up to the weather and a range of temperatures. 

UV resistant cable ties can be used for a variety of different applications. Here are a few examples:

• Bundling and organising cables and wires outdoors

• Securing leads, pipes and hoses in the garden

• Fixing outdoor lighting fixtures and holding up garden plants

• Organising cables and extension leads for outdoor decks and patios

For outdoor applications and uses, we would advise using UV resistant cable ties. They contain UV and carbon stabilisers which shield them from destructive sun rays. Whereas, for acidic conditions, consider stainless steel cable ties. Stainless steel ties are purposely designed to withstand corrosion and endure harsh acidic conditions.

How Long Do UV Resistant Cable Ties Last?

UV resistant cable ties are engineered for long-term outdoor use. In typical conditions, black UV cable ties last 5-10 years outdoors - sometimes even longer in moderate climates.

White UV-stable ties offer protection too, but their lifespan is generally slightly shorter due to lower carbon content.

With proper installation, UV resistant cable ties keep cables secure, tidy, and protected without frequent replacements

Thoughts?

At GTSE, our UV resistant cable ties are great for outdoor use and are resilient and long-lasting for hardwearing outdoor conditions. Not only do we carry a variety of specialised UV resistant cable ties, but we offer a variety of cable ties for different applications and purposes. 

Ready to choose the right UV cable ties for your project?
Explore GTSE’s full range of UV resistant cable ties, available in multiple sizes and pack quantities.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use standard nylon cable ties outdoors?

Standard nylon cable ties can be used outdoors for short periods, but they will degrade quickly under UV exposure. For long-term outdoor use, UV resistant cable ties are recommended.

How long do UV resistant cable ties last?

Black UV resistant cable ties typically last 5–10 years outdoors, depending on climate and exposure conditions.

Are all black cable ties UV resistant?

Not all black cable ties are UV resistant. Look for cable ties specifically labelled as UV resistant or UV stabilised.