Hi, I'm Vance and welcome to Repair and Replace.
Thread sealants are essential for many plumbing repairs
and there are several varieties you might come across.
Teflon tape (also known as PTFE tape or plumbers tape) acts as
a buffer between the threads providing a leak proof seal.
In this episode, we'll take a closer look at why thread tape is used,
which pipe connections do not need tape,
and we'll also learn the proper technique for applying teflon tape.
To understand why thread sealant is needed,
it's best to look at NPT or National Pipe Thread fittings.
These pipes have tapered threads that get smaller towards the end.
When the pipe is screwed into the fitting, the threads
wedge together and become more and more tight with each turn.
This provides good mechanical strength but the threads can still leak
as there is a small space between the threads.
This is why thread sealant is useful.
Teflon tape not only seals, it lubricates the threads making it easier to screw in,
forming a tighter connection.
Additionally it also prevents the threads from becoming seized making it easier to remove.
First clean the male and female threads of any oil or dirt.
Looking at the threads, tape is always applied in a clockwise direction.
This way the tape stays on and doesn't unravel when tightened.
Starting slightly above the end of the thread, hold onto one end of the tape to keep it tight.
Wrap three to six times, keeping it tight the whole way through.
Now grab the tape with your thumb and index finger and snap it off.
If you wrap it this way, and keep the first thread clean,
you won't have any tape shredding off inside the pipe,
which could create a blockage in a faucet cartridge or a valve.
Now hand tighten the pipe into the fitting.
Next tighten with a wrench and give it no more than 2 extra turns.
Over Tightening can expand the fitting and disrupt the seal.
When choosing thread seal tape, there are 3 common types that you might come across.
White tape is your standard tape used for most household jobs.
It can be used on plastic, brass, copper, aluminium, iron and steel pipe.
Pink tape is heavy duty and used in larger pipes from one half to 2 inches in diameter.
It's commonly used with air lines, hydraulic lines, sewage and sprinkler systems.
Yellow is high density tape which is manufactured especially
for propane, oil, natural gas, and chemical lines.
Overall, teflon tape and pipe joint compound can seal many similar connections.
However, it's important to read the product label first
checking both the material and the application.
In many cases, pipe joint compound is a little easier to apply while teflon tape is less messy.
Keep in mind that not all connections need thread sealant.
Compression fittings use a ferrule that is placed over the inlet tube.
When the nut is tightened, the ferrule is compressed against the seat, creating a seal.
Adding tape or pipe joint compound to a compression fitting will only compromise the seal.
Connections that use a o-ring or gasket, do not need any type of thread sealant
as it's the rubber that creates the seal.
This includes the flexible braided supply lines under many sinks.
Overall thread sealants are meant for pipes that carry pressurized fluids
and should never be used for securing nuts and bolts.
Instead, threadlockers such as loctite can keep a bolt from becoming loose.
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And if you need help, you can call or visit an AMRE location
to talk with our knowledgeable staff.
Thanks for watching.