July 15, 2015  DIY FYI:  PTFE Tape Tips

PTFE tape (also known as thread seal tape, or plumber’s tape) is a film that is used to seal pipe threads.  It generally comes in a spool. It is a good item to have when you are working on your plumbing at home, as it helps to better seat the pipe threads, and also serves as somewhat of a lubricant, preventing the threads from seizing.

PTFE tape is fairly easy to use…basically you just wrap the tape around the threads.  But have you ever wondered how many times you need to wrap it around?  The general rule is to wrap it 3 times around.  Don’t do any fewer wraps than 3.  You can do more, but be careful not to wrap it around too many times, or you won’t be able to fit the pipes together. 

by See Jane Drill, Copyright 2015, All Rights Reserved