Maybe you’ve seen pipe leak tape in the hardware store, and wondered, “Does pipe leak tape work?”. Sometimes called “Teflon” or “Plumber’s” tape, pipe threat tape is often used to fix leaking pipe joints. The other type of tape you may have seen is called “self-amalgamating,” “self-fusing,” or “leak repair” tape. It’s used to fix hairline cracks or other non-joint pipe leaks.
Tape serves a lot of purposes in the plumbing world. Professional plumbers use tape effectively every day. The key is having the right tape for the job and knowing how to apply it correctly. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at different types of pipe leak tape and how to best use them.
What is Pipe Leak Tape?
There are two types of tape that are commonly used for pipe leaks – pipe thread tape and silicone tape.
Pipe Thread Tape
Pipe thread tape is sometimes called “thread seal tape,” “PTFE tape,” “Teflon tape,” or “plumbers tape.” It helps to create a watertight seal between plumbing joints. It also helps to lubricate the connection between joints to make threading and easier.
Silicone Tape
Silicone, or “self-amalgamating tape,” doesn’t actually stick to the pipe. As the name suggests, it sticks to itself. Silicone tape is wrapped around a pipe leak to form a reliably durable, but temporary waterproof seal.
When Should I Use Pipe Leak Tape?
Using the right tape for the right application is the key to success. Pipe thread tape isn’t going to seal a hairline fracture on a pipe. Likewise, you should never apply silicone tape to your pipe’s threads.
- Leaking Joints
If your joints are leaking, it’s likely because the connection between them has loosened, or the tape or seal as degraded. Pipe thread tape helps with both of these issues.
- Fracture Leaks
Hairline fractures and other leaks happen when pipes get damaged. When the leak is coming from the middle of the pipe and not a joint, you have a fracture. Silicone tape can help form a temporary waterproof seal and prevent water from leaking until you replace the pipe.
How Long Does Pipe Leak Tape Last?
Pipe thread tape can last for years. As long as the joint isn’t leaking, you can consider it a long-term solution. Silicone tape, on the other hand, should only be used temporarily while you’re looking for a permanent fix. Silicone tape helps prevent a leak from getting worse or wasting more water until you call a plumber.
Pipe leak tape is a very helpful DYI solution to many common plumbing problems. Replacing your joint seals with pipe thread tape is a great way to preserve the health of your plumbing. You can even use it outdoors to stop leaky spigots and hose connections.
Need Help Replacing a Leaky Pipe?
Top of the Line Plumbing provides plumbing services to Duval County, St. Johns County, Atlantic Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach, and the surrounding areas. There isn’t a plumbing job too big or too small for our team to handle. From repairs and repiping to hydro jetting and water filtration, Top of the Line has the experts to get the job done.
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