You can use different kinds of plumbing repair tape to solve different plumbing leak problems. Use pipe thread tape, sometimes called “Teflon” or “Plumber’s” pipe, to fix leaking pipe joints. Use silicone, sometimes called “self-amalgamating,” “self-fusing,” or “leak repair” tape, to fix hairline cracks or other non-joint pipe leaks.
Tape has a surprisingly broad number of applications in plumbing. In fact, professional plumbers use tape effectively all the time. You just need to have the right tape for the job and know how to use it. Here’s what you should know about the common types of pipe leak tape and the repairs they’re used for.
There are two types of tape that are commonly used in leaking pipe repair: pipe thread tape and silicone tape. Both are commonly available in hardware stores but have different applications:
You may know pipe thread tape as “thread seal tape,” “PTFE tape,” “Teflon tape,” or “plumber’s tape.” It is used to help create a watertight seal between plumbing joints, as well as to lubricate the connection between the joints to make threading smoother and disassembly easier.
Silicone tape is also called “self-amalgamating tape” or “self-fusing tape,” because it is only self-adhesive. Unlike other tapes, it doesn’t actually stick to the pipe; only to itself. Silicone tape can be wrapped around a pipe leak to form a temporary but reliably durable and waterproof seal.
As noted above, pipe thread and silicone tapes both have very different applications. Teflon pipe thread tape won’t work on non-joint pipe leaks effectively, and you should never apply silicone tape to your pipe’s threads. Instead, make sure you use each tape only for its proper application:
If your pipe’s joints are leaking, it’s probably either because the connection between them has loosened or the tape or putty sealing the connection has worn out. Pipe thread tape can help with both of these problems. If you identify that your pipe leak is coming from a joint, then you should apply some pipe threading tape.
Hairline fractures and other leaks happen when pipes are somehow damaged. If the leak is clearly coming from the middle of a plumbing pipe, rather than a joint, then it’s probably a fracture. Silicone plumbing tape for leaks can help form a temporary waterproof seal to prevent water from leaking while you seek a permanent fix. Pipe thread pipe won’t accomplish this effectively, and shouldn’t be used.
To summarize:
Plumbing tape is quite easy to use for either application. Follow these directions:
To use pipe thread tape to repair a leaking pipe joint, you’ll need to replace the worn seal between the joints:
This process is even simpler.
Pipe thread tape is frequently used and can last years. As long as the joint isn’t leaking, you can consider it a long-term (if still ultimately temporary) solution. Silicone tape, on the other hand, should only be used as a temporary measure while you seek more permanent fixes. You should use silicone tape to prevent a leak from getting worse or wasting more water while you call a plumber. It’s never a permanent leak fix.
Pipe leak tape is a surprisingly easy and helpful solution to many plumbing problems. In fact, replacing your joint seals with pipe thread tape is a great, easy DIY project you can complete to help preserve the health of your plumbing.
For expert pipe repair or replacement, the experts at Mike Diamond are only a call away. When your pipes need more than a little to tape, call us for fast and reliable plumbing help in Los Angeles and Southern California.
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