Four Goops And Goos To Have On Hand If You Plan On Tackling DIY Plumbing Projects
Posted on: 13 October 2016
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Small plumbing tasks, such as caulking in a sink or replacing a faucet, can often be tackled without the help of a plumber. However, your results will only be as good as the materials you use. In order to ensure your DIY plumbing attempts are successful, keep the following goopy, gooey products on hand and know how to use them.
Pipe Dope
Also sold as "thread paste," this substance comes in a jar with a brush on the lid. You spread it around the threaded end of a pipe before connecting that pipe to another one. It works as a lubricant to make it easier to connect the two pipes fully, and then it dries and works as a sealant to keep water from seeping out of the joint. Look for a thread paste that's ideal for use on both PVC and metal pipes for the greatest versatility. (Some can only be used for one or the other.)
Plumber's Putty
Plumber's putty has the consistency of sticky tack. It comes in a little canister, and it can be used for all sorts of different purposes. Use it under a sink to seal it to the counter top. Spread it on the shower drain to secure it to the shower floor. Plumber's putty is a good all-purpose adhesive to have on hand. If you're ever unsure of which product to use, turn to plumber's putty – it is sure to do at least a "decent" job.
Silicone Caulk
Tubes of caulk are only a couple of dollars. Purchase a few because once you open a tube, it can't really be re-capped and preserved until the next time you need it. You don't want to use silicone caulk on actual pipes, but it's the best sealant to attach sinks, fixtures, tubs, and other appliances to the materials they are sitting in or on. Silicone caulk usually comes in white and cream. Pick a shade that looks best in your bathroom or kitchen, and stick with that same shade for consistency.
Plumber's Grease
Screwing together faucet parts can be tough. So you don't have to use as much elbow grease (or risk stripping a threaded pipe), purchase a little tub of plumber's grease. You just add a dab to any parts you have to screw together, including O-rings and any moving parts, and they go together much more easily.
With these four goops in your toolbox, you'll be ready for almost any plumbing task that comes your way. Contact a plumbing company like Angeles Plumbing for more information.