An important question, particularly for cable ties being used outdoors, is how waterproof are they?
To help us answer this question, we need first to look at what cable ties are made from.
What are cable ties made from?
At cableties-online, our cable ties are manufactured from nylon 6/6, a flexible plastic that offers good tensile strength, wear-resistance and chemical-resistance. Nylon is slightly hydrophilic which means it will absorb some moisture from the air – in the case of cable ties, up to 2.5% of their weight. While this doesn’t mean your cable ties will dissolve in water, it does affect how they function in extreme conditions, losing or absorbing moisture according to their situation – find out more in Does moisture affect nylon cable ties?
Are cable ties waterproof?
Standard nylon cable ties are water-resistant in basic wet conditions. If you accidentally splash one for example, or use one in the rain, or in a damp environment, it will not fall apart or break down immediately. However, they are not completely waterproof as they will not fare well with long-term water exposure or immersion.
Cable ties and short term exposure to wet conditions
Nylon ties can easily withstand temporary wet conditions, such as rain or accidental splashes.
Cable ties and long term outdoor use
Nylon cable ties will weaken over time with prolonged exposure to moisture and sunlight (UV radiation). They can become brittle, discolour, or lose tensile strength.
Cable ties and submersion
Standard nylon cable ties are not designed for underwater use. Prolonged immersion will lead to swelling and weakening, particularly in warm or chlorinated water.
Waterproof cable tie options
Don’t despair if you are planning a project that involves long-term moisture or full exposure to the elements! At cableties-online, we have cable ties that will cope!
UV and heat stabilised nylon cable ties – UV & heat stabilised cable ties are treated with carbon black, a UV absorber, making them suitable for outdoor use in wet or sunny conditions. Read more about this in Are cable ties weatherproof?
Metal cable ties - for complete weather resistance, stainless steel cable ties are corrosion-proof and completely waterproof. They’re used in marine applications, industrial environments, and places where strength and water resistance are critical.
How to use cable ties in wet conditions
• Choose the right material - for wet or outdoor use, always opt for UV-resistant or stainless-steel ties.
• As wet and cold conditions can make nylon more brittle, avoid excess strain and overtightening in winter or in places with high-humidity.
• Inspect regularly – cable ties used outside should be checked regularly, particularly any that have been in place for more than a year.
While standard cable ties offer some basic water resistance, they are not truly waterproof in a long-term context. For occasional exposure to British rain or damp environments, most ties will hold up just fine. But, for anything more demanding — like marine use, exposed construction, or long-term garden fixes — it’s worth investing in weather-specific or stainless-steel alternatives.
Waterproof cable ties from cableties-online
At cableties-online, individual product descriptions include specifications to help you choose the right cable tie for your needs. We hold a large stock of nylon cable ties, metal cable ties, and UV and heat stabilised cable ties and are happy to discuss a trade account for customers buying on a regular basis.
Our sales team is available with help and advice and can be contacted by email at sales@cableties-online.co.uk or by phone on 01623 412160 Mon-Fri from 08.30-17.00
