so I recently tried to use a roll of ultracote that I might have bought a while ago and the paper backing was stuck to the roll and when I removed it it removed the color from the roll and it will not adhere when you try to use it. This roll was sealed in the plastic and I think was stored at room temperature the whole time. I think i have had this roll for maybe a couple of years? I also have some econokote that will not adhere but we know that econokote is old. Does monokote get old and not work as well? Am afraid I may have to throw out a lot of what I have? will have to see what it looks like? I am afraid to buy old rolls of monokote if they do this as well. I think I bought the ultracote about 2 years ago new?

I recently covered a ringmaster wing in 25 year old monokote. It was still factory wrapped, been stored in a fairly dark location. No problems. Theres another thread in the search function where others have had differing results.

I've had those differing results that Mike talks about.

Most rolls are fine, some are trash.

I'm just using up my stash as I go.

Do you need another roll? What color is it? Perhaps somebody can help you out.

A few years ago, I was completing a new model build (profile CG Shoestring) and needed some wing covering. Our RC/CL club had quite a few rolls of plastic covering (still in the original wrapping) in our field shed. Being a newbie and not knowing any better I selected a transparent green roll. I seem to remember that it was Monokote. The material in the shed was there for quite some time and stored in a relatively hot building.

Got my model wing covered and the material seemed to go on fine. On the day of the maiden flight, on the 3rd flight the outer wing covering bottom side ripped off mid-flight. I was able to complete the flight and safely land to my amazement. The covering material itself looked OK, but it was the glue that lost its adhesion quality. Lessons learned.

Ever since that event I have never used 'old' plastic covering if I don't know or remember the vintage. I also don't purchase from swap meets, etc. to be on the safe side. If it's been sitting around for a couple of years I typically don't use it. I bite the bullet and purchase new covering from a reputable source for my models.

But concerning actual shelf life, who knows as there are many variables. If stored indoors in a cool and dry place, I would mainly be concerned with the quality of the glue when applying an old covering. If one notices the covering not sticking very well when first applied, I would deep six the material and get some new covering and start over.

Just my 2 cents.

Colin

One thing I always do is apply a coat of Coverite Balsarite for film before covering. This keeps it stuck down strong.

Best,   DennisT

Mod Poge works great too.