If you’re a DIY plumbing enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of plumber’s putty.
This soft and pliable sealing compound is a go-to solution for making watertight seals around faucets, drains, and other plumbing parts.
But when it comes to P-traps, the question arises: should you use plumber’s putty?
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using plumber’s putty on P-traps and help you make an informed decision.
So, let’s dive in!
Should I Use Plumbers Putty On P-trap
P-traps are an essential component of any plumbing system. They prevent sewer gases from entering your home and keep your drains flowing smoothly.
When it comes to installing a P-trap, some people swear by plumber’s putty, while others avoid it altogether. So, what’s the deal?
The short answer is that it depends on the type of P-trap you’re installing.
If you’re installing a plastic P-trap, plumber’s putty is not recommended. Plastic fittings can be prone to leaking if they’re not perfectly aligned, and plumber’s putty won’t do much to help in this situation.
On the other hand, if you’re installing a metal P-trap, plumber’s putty can be a helpful tool. It can help create a watertight seal around the threads and prevent leaks from occurring.
However, it’s important to note that plumber’s putty is not an adhesive or glue. It should not be used in any pressurized connection, such as a gasketed fitting or on the thread of pipes.
Additionally, plumber’s putty should not be used on plastics (PVC or ABS) because it can affect the integrity of the material and lead to product failure.
What Is A P-trap And How Does It Work?
A P-trap is a specialized fitting that is commonly found under sinks, tubs, and showers in any plumbing system that uses a drain and accepts sanitary waste. It is shaped like a “P” and is designed to create an airtight seal that prevents sewer gas and odor from entering your home.
The P-trap works by holding just enough water to create a barrier that blocks toxic, foul-smelling sewer gases from traveling through the pipe and into your home. As you run water down the drain, you continuously refill the trap with water, maintaining the seal.
In addition to blocking bad smells from coming up, P-traps also serve as a useful barrier that prevents objects that shouldn’t be in your plumbing from going down. If you accidentally drop something down the drain, such as a wedding ring, you can usually retrieve it from the nearest P-trap.
Most modern homes have P-traps under each toilet, sink, shower, and bathtub. They are an essential component of any plumbing system and play a crucial role in keeping your home’s plumbing functioning properly.
What Is Plumber’s Putty And How Is It Used In Plumbing?
Plumber’s putty is a soft, moldable sealing compound that is commonly used in plumbing applications. It is a clay-like substance that can be easily shaped and molded to fit around faucets, drains, and other plumbing parts.
The primary use of plumber’s putty is to create a watertight seal around these fixtures, preventing water from seeping through and causing damage or leaks. It is ideal for setting faucets, sink basket strainers, shower and pop-up drains.
One of the benefits of plumber’s putty is that it stays soft for a long time, making it easy to remove the fixture and make corrections if necessary. It can also last for several years, providing a reliable seal that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
It’s important to note that plumber’s putty should not be used on plastics such as PVC or ABS, as it can affect the integrity of the material and lead to product failure. Additionally, it should not be used in any pressurized connection, such as a gasketed fitting or on the thread of pipes.
Pros Of Using Plumber’s Putty On P-traps
There are several advantages to using plumber’s putty on metal P-traps.
Firstly, it can help create a watertight seal around the threads of the P-trap, preventing leaks from occurring. This is especially important in areas where water pressure is high or where there is a risk of water damage.
Secondly, plumber’s putty is easy to work with and can be molded to fit the contours of the P-trap. This makes it a great choice for DIY plumbing projects or for those who are new to plumbing work.
Finally, plumber’s putty remains soft and pliable over time, which means that it can be easily modified or removed if necessary. This makes it a great choice for those who want to be able to make adjustments to their plumbing system without having to start from scratch.
Cons Of Using Plumber’s Putty On P-traps
While plumber’s putty can be a helpful tool when installing a metal P-trap, there are some potential drawbacks to using it.
Firstly, plumber’s putty can dry out and crack over time, which can lead to leaks. This is especially true if the P-trap is subject to frequent movement or vibration.
Secondly, plumber’s putty can be difficult to remove once it has dried. This can make it challenging to replace the P-trap or make any necessary repairs in the future.
Lastly, as mentioned earlier, plumber’s putty should not be used on plastic fittings. Using it on a plastic P-trap can cause damage to the material and lead to product failure.
Alternatives To Using Plumber’s Putty On P-traps
If you’re installing a plastic P-trap, there are alternatives to using plumber’s putty that can help create a watertight seal. One option is to use Teflon tape, which is a thin, white tape that can be wrapped around the threads of the P-trap to create a seal.
Another option is to use silicone caulk. Apply a small bead of silicone caulk around the threads of the P-trap before screwing it into place. This will create a watertight seal and prevent leaks from occurring.
It’s important to note that if you’re using silicone caulk, you should wait for it to dry completely before turning on the water. This can take up to 24 hours, so plan accordingly.
Step-by-step Guide On How To Install A P-trap With Or Without Plumber’s Putty
If you’re ready to install your P-trap, here is a step-by-step guide that will help you do it correctly:
1. Start by turning off the water supply to your sink or washing machine. This will prevent any flooding or water damage while you work.
2. Next, remove the old P-trap (if there is one) by loosening the nuts that hold it in place. Be sure to have a bucket or towel handy to catch any water that may spill out.
3. Clean the threads of the wall drain and the P-trap with a rag or towel. This will ensure a tight seal when you install the new P-trap.
4. Apply a small amount of plumber’s putty around the threads of the wall drain (if you’re using a metal P-trap). This will create a watertight seal and prevent leaks from occurring.
5. Attach the new P-trap to the wall drain by tightening the nuts with your hands. Use pliers to tighten them further, but be careful not to over-tighten and damage the fittings.
6. If you’re using a plastic P-trap, skip step 4 and simply attach it to the wall drain as described in step 5.
7. Attach the other end of the P-trap to your sink or washing machine drain by tightening the nuts with your hands and then using pliers.
8. Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. If you notice any leaks, tighten the fittings further until they stop.
9. Finally, run some water through your sink or washing machine to ensure that everything is flowing smoothly.
By following these steps, you can install your P-trap with or without plumber’s putty and ensure a proper and secure installation that will prevent foul-smelling sewer gases from entering your living space.