What kind of sealant do you use on kitchen faucets?

When it comes to sealing and waterproofing kitchen faucets, there are a few key factors to consider in choosing the right sealant for the job. The main goal is to find a sealant that will provide a watertight barrier between the faucet and sink surface to prevent leaks and damage from water exposure. Some of the key things to think about when selecting a faucet sealant include:

Silicone Sealant

Silicone is one of the most common and effective sealants used for kitchen faucets. It provides a flexible, waterproof seal that can withstand temperature changes and minor movement of the faucet. Key benefits of silicone sealant include:

  • Flexibility – It can stretch and compress with the natural movement of the faucet and sink.
  • Watertight Seal – Silicone is highly water repellent and can prevent leaks.
  • Durability – It is long lasting and can withstand regular use and cleaning.
  • Ease of Application – Silicone sealant is easy to apply from a caulking gun in a smooth bead.

When using silicone, it’s important to choose a formula that is made for plumbing and meets standards for mildew resistance. 100% silicone sealant is recommended over latex or acrylic based products.

Plumber’s Putty

Plumber’s putty is another common option for sealing kitchen faucets. It is a very soft, pliable putty that seals by filling any small gaps or spaces between the faucet and sink. Some key advantages of plumber’s putty are:

  • No Curing Time – It forms an instant seal so no waiting is required before using the faucet.
  • Easy to Apply and Remove – It can be rolled into place by hand and cleaned up with water.
  • Non-Permanent – The putty can be removed and reapplied if needed for faucet maintenance.
  • Inexpensive – Plumber’s putty is one of the most budget friendly sealant options.

The main downside is that plumber’s putty can dry out and crack over time. It may need to be replaced every few years.

Epoxy Sealant

Two-part epoxy sealants offer a very rigid, permanent bond and can be used to seal stubborn leaks around faucets. Benefits of epoxy include:

  • Extremely Durable Seal – Once cured, epoxy forms a waterproof, rock hard seal.
  • Works on Many Materials – Can bond to metal, plastic, fiberglass, porcelain, etc.
  • Withstands Heavy Use – Holds up well to high traffic kitchens.
  • Permanent Seal – Unlike putty or silicone, epoxy will not need regular replacement.

The downside of epoxy is mainly that application can be tricky and messy. Once mixed and applied, adjustment time is very limited before hardening begins.

Factors to Consider

When selecting a faucet sealant, here are some factors to keep in mind:

Factor Description
Faucet Material Make sure sealant is compatible with the faucet finish. Epoxy works well on most materials.
Extent of Damage/Leaks Small gaps = plumber’s putty or silicone. Large leaks = epoxy.
Permanence Needed Plumber’s putty is non-permanent. Silicone and epoxy offer a more permanent seal.
Ease of Application Plumber’s putty and silicone are the easiest to work with. Epoxy is trickier.

Applying Sealant

To ensure you get a watertight seal, it’s important to properly prepare the area and apply the sealant according to manufacturer instructions. Here are some general application tips:

  • Clean the area thoroughly – Remove any old sealant, debris, grease, etc. for best adhesion.
  • Dry fit plumbing connections before applying sealant.
  • Apply sealant in a continuous, smooth bead with no gaps or air bubbles.
  • Make sure sealant makes contact with both joining surfaces.
  • Silicone and epoxy require “tooling” after application to spread sealant and ensure a tight seal.
  • Completely remove any excess sealant for a clean finish.

Taking your time to properly clean, prepare, and apply the sealant as directed will provide the best watertight seal and protection against leaks.

Conclusion

In summary, the most common and effective options for sealing kitchen faucets include:

  • Silicone Sealant – Provides a flexible, waterproof seal that can handle movement and temperature changes.
  • Plumber’s Putty – Offers a quick, inexpensive seal option but may require more frequent replacement.
  • Epoxy Sealants – For permanent, heavy duty sealing jobs and stubborn leaks.

Be sure to consider the faucet material, extent of damage, and desired permanence when selecting the right sealant. Proper application by following manufacturer’s directions can ensure long lasting results and prevent leaks or water damage around your kitchen faucet.