Plumbers have a variety of tools and materials at their disposal to seal leaks in plumbing systems. The most common things plumbers use to stop leaks include thread sealant tape, pipe joint compound, epoxy putty, and hot melt glue. The type of sealant used depends on factors like the size of the leak, the type of pipe or joint involved, and the water pressure in the system.
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Thread Sealant Tape
Thread sealant tape, also known as plumber’s tape or PTFE tape, is a thin, flexible ribbon made of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) with an adhesive backing. It is one of the most versatile and commonly used leak sealants plumbers rely on. Plumber’s tape serves two main purposes – it helps create a tighter seal between threaded pipe connections and it prevents the threads from corroding over time.
To use PTFE tape, the plumber simply wraps it around the male threaded portion of a pipe. As the male end is screwed into the female threaded opening, the tape compresses and molds to the grooves of the threads, filling in any small gaps. This creates a much tighter seal and prevents leaks. The non-sticky nature of the tape also allows the plumber to adjust or remove the threaded fitting if needed without damaging the threads.
Plumber’s tape can be used to seal leaks on threaded connections on pipes, valves, faucets, shower heads, and more. It is effective for small leaks in the threaded joints of water, gas, heating, or other plumbing systems. The tape’s resistance to chemicals and corrosion also make it suitable for both hot and cold water applications.
Advantages of Thread Sealant Tape
- Creates watertight seal on threaded joints
- Easy to apply and adjust
- Prevents corrosion of threads
- Applicable for wide range of pipe sizes
- Works on metal or plastic threads
- Can be used for hot and cold water systems
- Very affordable plumbing sealant option
Pipe Joint Compound
Pipe joint compounds, sometimes referred to as pipe dope, are another material plumbers frequently turn to for sealing threaded pipe connections. These compounds are applied to the threads of pipes before assembling the joint. Pipe dope fills in imperfections and creates a watertight seal.
Plumber’s putty is often composed of materials like graphite, linseed oil, clay and other minerals. It has a thick, putty-like consistency that allows it to be molded and spread onto threads. The friction resulting from tightening the joint smooths the compound and pushes it into any voids in the threading.
Pipe joint compound hardens over time while remaining pliable. This allows the seal to persist even if the pipes shift slightly due to temperature changes or other factors. The compounds are often rated for temperatures up to 500°F making them suitable for hot water plumbing and heating systems.
Benefits of Pipe Joint Compound
- Seals leaks in threaded fittings
- Withstands high temperatures
- Can be used on a wide array of pipe materials
- Creates a permanent, flexible seal
- Resists vibration & thermal expansion/contraction
- Prevents seizing and corrosion of threads
Epoxy Putty
Epoxy putty is formed by mixing equal parts resin and hardener components to create a cohesive, adhesive material with sealing properties. Plumbers utilize epoxy putties to seal leaks in damaged pipes and pipe joints. It provides a durable and permanent repair even when subjected to high temperatures or water pressure.
To use epoxy putty, the plumber molds and presses it over the leaking section of pipe. The putty will begin curing and hardening within minutes to an airtight, waterproof seal. Epoxy can seal leaks in steel, copper, PVC and other types of piping materials. It bonds strongly with the substrate, preventing leaks even as temperatures fluctuate or pipes shift over time.
While epoxy putties quickly seal leaks, it is important to clean and roughen the surface of the pipe beforehand. This helps the epoxy adhere properly and improves the longevity of the repair. Clamps or patches may also be used to hold the putty in place while curing.
Benefits of Epoxy Putty
- Forms permanent seals on damaged pipes
- Bonds and cures rapidly
- Withstands high water pressure
- Can be used to plug holes in addition to sealing joints
- Effective for many types of pipe materials
- Provides corrosion resistance
Hot Melt Glue
Hot melt glue provides a quick, easy option for sealing minor plumbing leaks. This adhesive comes in solid stick form. To use it, plumbers insert the stick into a hot glue gun which heats the glue to 380-400°F melting it into a liquid state. They can then apply the liquefied glue to the leak and the heat causes the glue to solidify rapidly as it cools.
The glue forms a water tight seal within seconds. Hot melt glue is suitable for sealing leaks around joints and fittings on most plastic and metal pipes. It also offers reasonably good adhesion to PVC, CPVC, copper, steel and ABS piping. Hot glue guns allow the glue to be applied easily in hard to reach areas.
While convenient for minor leaks, hot melt glue has its limitations. It should only be applied to dry, debris-free surfaces and does not bond well with scale buildup. The seals are not extremely durable or resistant to high temperatures or pressures. Glue sticks also have a relatively short shelf life if not stored properly.
Advantages of Hot Melt Glue
- Fast leak sealing capability
- Bonds quickly to many pipe materials
- Simple to apply in difficult areas
- Inexpensive and readily available
- Good for temporary or minor repairs
- Various glue stick formulas available
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Sealant
When evaluating which plumbing sealant to use, there are several important factors for plumbers to consider:
- Location of leak – Is the leak occurring at a threaded joint or somewhere along the pipe body? This impacts whether a joint sealant or epoxy putty is more appropriate.
- Pipe material – Make sure to select a sealant compatible with the leaking pipe’s material composition.
- Pipe size – Larger diameter pipes typically require a more heavy-duty sealant able to withstand greater pressure.
- Water temperature – Hot water systems require sealants rated for high temps like pipe dope or PTFE tape.
- Repair permanence – If looking for a temporary quick fix, hot glue may be suitable. For permanent solutions, putty or compound is better.
- Water pressure – Choose a sealant capable of withstanding the system’s typical water pressures.
- Applicable codes – Ensure the sealant meets any required plumbing codes for the application.
Additionally, it helps to clean and dry the area well before applying the sealant. Following the product instructions for proper usage is also critical.
Conclusion
Plumbers have an array of sealing solutions at their disposal when it comes to repairing leaks. PTFE tape, pipe joint compound, epoxy putty and hot melt glue represent some of the most common and effective options. The right sealant depends on factors like the pipe material, water temperature, leak location, and required permanence of the repair. With so many plumbing sealants available, plumbers can determine the optimal product for permanently stopping any water leak.