Why Use Plumber’s Putty
Plumber’s putty is one of the basics tools in a plumber’s tool bag. Plumbers use it because it remains soft for a long time and maintains a watertight seal, but unlike silicone and other types of caulk, plumber’s putty is not an adhesive, so a fixture or drain part sealed with putty remains easy to remove if you ever need to replace it. Also, silicone is not as easy you work with and is not as dense as plumber’s putty, so it’s not as good at filling wide gaps, and plumbers don’t need time to dry just like caulk does.
Where to Use Plumber’s Putty
Plumber’s putty is commonly used to seal along the base of faucets and other sink fixtures before setting them onto the sink. It’s also applied to the undersides of sink strainers and pop-up drainfittings for sinks and tubs. In all of these common applications, the putty is hidden under a flange, lip, or edge and is not visible when the part is installed. If caulk were used instead of putty, it would be difficult to access these areas to cut through the caulk to remove the part. In many instances, manufacturers have eliminated the use of plumbers putty by providing gaskets. When installing any new faucets or similar items you should read through the installation documents.
How to Use Plumber’s Putty
Plumber’s putty is a very inexpensive material that is sold in small plastic tubs. It is always shaped by hand before it is applied to the plumbing part. Follow these basic steps to apply plumber’s putty:
Tips for Using Plumber’s Putty
While plumber’s putty is better than caulk in some situations, it’s not a universal caulk alternative. Do not use plumber’s putty where you need adhesive strength (to bond materials or prevent them from moving) or where you need a watertight seal in exposed areas. Follow these other tips for the best results:
Plumber’s putty should be pliable and easy to roll. If it’s too hard to roll or it cracks when you try to shape it, it is too old and dried out. Get a new tub of putty.Keep the tub of putty sealed tightly so the putty will last as long as possible before getting hard. It eventually dries out in the tub, but this can take years.Read the label of the plumber’s putty before using it on porous surfaces. Plumber’s putty is petroleum-based and can stain some materials, such as granite. The directions on the container of putty will let you know what surfaces it can be used on. There are stain-free forms of plumber’s putty for use on stone and other porous materials.
