Buzz
If you’ve ever browsed the aisles of a hardware store, you’ve likely come across Plumber’s Putty. Alternatively, if you’ve hired a plumber, you might have noticed it in their toolkit. This versatile compound, typically made from a clay or dough base mixed with oils for flexibility, is designed to form durable, watertight seals that stay soft and adaptable over time. It’s an incredibly practical item to own—inexpensive, long-lasting when stored correctly, and useful in countless situations.
Securing fixtures
The main purpose of plumber’s putty is to seal plumbing fixtures such as drains or faucets to surfaces like countertops or sinks. Imagine waking up to a leaking kitchen sink drain—instead of calling an expensive plumber, you can easily fix it yourself with a $3 tub of plumber’s putty and a wrench. Here’s the simple process:
Unscrew the nut beneath the drain to remove it
Ensure the area is completely cleaned
Shape a golf ball-sized portion of plumber’s putty into a thin, even roll
Apply the putty around the edge of the drain
Reinstall the drain, tighten it, and wipe away any extra putty
That’s all there is to it! Plumber’s putty creates a waterproof seal that prevents leaks. While it isn’t suitable for high-pressure situations, it’s perfect for low-pressure applications like slow leaks. It’s ideal for sealing fixtures such as faucets, kitchen and bathroom sink drains, and shower drains.
One major benefit over caulk is its ease of removal. Unlike caulk, which hardens and bonds permanently, plumber’s putty allows for straightforward fixture removal later. Additionally, you can use the drain or faucet right away—no waiting for drying or curing time.
Keep in mind that many new drain or faucet kits come with a gasket, eliminating the need for plumber’s putty. While these gaskets typically work well, it’s still wise to have putty available in case the gasket fails unexpectedly.
Connecting pipes
Plumber’s putty can be a substitute for Teflon tape when joining pipes. Simply spread the putty on the inner threads, connect the pipes, and remove any extra putty.
This method is effective for low-pressure connections, but for high-pressure systems, Teflon tape is far superior. However, in emergencies where tape isn’t available, plumber’s putty can serve as a temporary solution until you can obtain proper materials or professional assistance.
Securing a toilet
A toilet must be sealed to the floor, and despite common misconceptions, it should be fully sealed around the base. The idea of leaving a gap to detect leaks is incorrect and should be avoided.
Caulk is the preferred material for sealing a toilet because it not only prevents odors and leaks but also stabilizes the toilet by adhering to the floor. During installation, plumber’s putty can be used to create a temporary waterproof seal between the toilet and the floor before applying caulk. Additionally, applying putty around the wax ring that seals the toilet to the floor flange prevents the wax from sticking to the toilet, making future removal much easier. This small step will save time and effort for you or the next homeowner.
While plumber’s putty is designed for specific tasks, it excels in those areas, making it an invaluable tool for addressing leaks in kitchen or bathroom fixtures. Keeping a small container on hand ensures you’re prepared for such repairs, and its malleable nature adds a touch of enjoyment to the process.
