With enough plumber’s tape, anything is possible
A leaky pipe can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. But in some cases, plumbing problems can actually be fixed (even just for the night while you wait for a professional) with the help of a hardware store heavy hitter: Teflon™ plumber's tape.
This mighty tape creates a watertight seal between pipe connections and can significantly reduce your chances of encountering a leak. Read on to learn the different applications for plumber’s tape, how to use plumber’s tape, and helpful tips and tricks.
Teflon™ plumber’s tape is a specialty tape made of Teflon™. It’s used on threaded pipe connections to help create a tighter, leak-proof connection between fittings.
Teflon™ is the brand name for PTFE thread seal tape—another name for plumber’s tape—that stands for polytetrafluoroethylene.
If you're wondering what Teflon™ tape is used for, it is most often used on pipe threads to create a watertight seal between pipe connections. You can use it on any threaded pipe or fitting connection—regardless of whether it carries water, gas, or air—including:
Faucets
Showerheads
Radiators
Water valves
Pipe-to-pipe connections
Pipe-to-valve connections
and more
Besides the advantage of a watertight seal, applying plumber’s tape also makes it easier to disassemble a pipe connection in the future.
Applying plumber’s tape to a pipe connection seems fairly straightforward, but following the proper procedure is essential to achieve a secure seal. If you want to avoid paying for the cost of a plumber, follow the process for how to use Teflon™ tape detailed below.
To ensure the plumber's tape fully adheres to the pipe threads, clean the threads with a clean rag. If there is any built-up debris or residue, spray the threads with an all-purpose cleaner, then wipe clean.
Clean the pipes' interior and exterior threaded connections and wait for them to dry before proceeding.
It is important to position the tape on the thread correctly before applying it. Wrap the tape around the threads in the same direction as the pipe will be turned while connecting it.
For instance, if the pipe is tightened by turning it clockwise, wrap the plumber’s tape clockwise around the threads. Doing so ensures the tape tightens as the pipe is threaded rather than unraveling.
After determining the direction to apply the tape, place the end of the plumber’s tape on the second thread from the end of the pipe. Hold the end of the tape with your thumb and the roll of tape with your other hand.
Begin to wrap the tape around the threads. Keep it tight and slightly overlap the previous piece of tape as you wrap it to ensure there are no gaps. Stop applying the tape once all the pipe threads are covered.
Pull the tape roll away from the tape on the pipe to break it off. If you have any trouble, use a pair of scissors. Press the tape down with your fingers to ensure it adheres fully to the pipe threads.
If the tape is not sticking properly or there are frayed edges, take off the tape and start the process over with new tape to make sure you get the application right.
Plumber’s tape comes in different colors to easily signal what type of pipes and connections it should be used for. Each color varies in its density and width, so it’s important to use the right type for the job.
| Color | Benefit | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| White | Single density | Standard plumbing jobs |
| Red | Triple density | Larger joints or pipes with a diameter of 1/2 to 2 in |
| Yellow | Double density | Gas lines |
| Green | Grease- and oil-free | Oxygen lines |
| Gray/silver | Prevents seizing | Stainless steel, brass, and aluminum pipes |
There are other types of tape that plumbers use, like heat tape for pipes. This tape helps prevent pipes from leaking through self-regulation.
But, generally, white plumber’s tape is the standard for most jobs.
Incorporate these tips when using Teflon™ tape on pipe connections to make sure you get it right and create a solid seal, which can avoid the cost of repiping a house.
Go the right way. Make sure to wrap the plumber’s tape onto the pipe in the same direction as the pipe tightens. This way, the tape tightens with the pipe rather than unraveling during connection.
Apply thoughtfully. Start applying the tape on the second thread closest to the end of the pipe. Placing the tape too close to the end of the pipe can block the flow of water, gas, or air that runs through the pipe.
Don’t use too much. Do not overwrap the pipe. Depending on the size of the threads, you will only need three to six wraps around the pipe for a proper application.
While plumber’s tape is a great solution for many plumbing problems, there are some times when it’s not the right product for the job at hand.
You shouldn’t use plumber’s tape on pipe connections in any of the following scenarios:
When connecting PVC pipes
If the pipe has wide threads, as water can still leak through the space between the threads
If the pipe has very tight threads, as the tape would prevent a proper connection
If the pipe threads are damaged, which would prevent the tape from providing a watertight seal
If your predicament is similar to any of these, a licensed plumber can help you solve the problem.
Plumber’s tape will last many years if properly installed and the pipes are not disturbed. Teflon™ material is highly durable as it is resistant to temperature changes, chemicals, and corrosion.
You should still regularly check your plumbing for leaks on the off chance the plumber’s tape fails or wears out, in addition to having a plumber repair service near you visit for important repair work.
You can stop a leak with plumber’s tape, but it’s not a recommended way to repair a leak. To install it, you have to dismantle the plumbing connection, apply plumber’s tape, and then re-install the pieces.
There are better options for a temporary fix for leaking pipes, such as repair sleeves, epoxy compounds, or pipe clamps.
Yes, you can use too much plumber’s tape. Adding more tape than necessary will make it difficult to make the pipe connection and has no added benefit. Only wrap the tape around a pipe thread three to six times, depending on the size of the pipe and the thickness of the tape.
No, putting new plumber’s tape over old plumber’s tape is not recommended. The old tape connection may not be completely adhered and could cause a leak.
Instead, remove the old tape completely, clean off the pipe threads with a clean rag and wire brush if needed, then apply new plumber’s tape to make your connection.
