Using PTFE tape sounds simple enough - when you’re mechanically joining a pipe and fitting, apply the tape to the male threads of the pipe. This will fill all the imperfections between the threads, and prevent leaks. But using the tape is easier said than done. Oatey’s Master Plumber answers common questions about PTFE tape to help you apply it right every time.
Features:
- Reduced tensile strength and expanded elongation allows the tape to grip to threads easily with a tackier texture.
- Gray color blends in better to shower heads and fixtures offering a cleaner finished look.
- Can be used on various pipe material including stainless steel, PVC, ABS, aluminum and more.
- UL Listed Professional Grade Tape.
- Seals stainless steel, cast iron, pvc, cpvc, and abs pipes, brass and chrome fittings, gas connections and more!
Seals on a huge variety of threaded systems:
- Stainless steel pipe
- Cast iron
- PVC, CPVC and ABS pipe
- Brass and chrome fittings
- Gas connections
- And more!
The male threads look good and the pipe threads into the female fitting smoothly - do I even need PTFE tape?
Yes. Because pipe threads are cut from dies, they may not be as perfect as they appear. Over time, the dies become worn and small imperfections will increase with each thread that is cut into the pipe. This wear and tear will create inconsistent thread cuts and ultimately lead to leaks. Thread tape fills in these imperfections, as well as imperfections from when the crest (top) of the thread is damaged during shipping, stocking or handling before assembly is completed. Thread sealant tape is a great option to eliminate leak paths anytime you mechanically join pipes. Once applied, it will last the life of the pipe
What’s the proper way to apply the tape?
The end of the thread tape should be as square as possible. Also, make sure the male threads are free of any debris. Place the end of the tape on the first thread from the end of the pipe, holding it in place with your finger or thumb. When threading it into the fitting, wrap the tape in the opposite direction to the direction the pipe will be turned
The tape is slippery and keeps sliding off when I pull it. I keep having to start over. Is there anything I can do?
Use the new Hercules Grrip tape. As the name implies, it’s tacky and won’t slip off the threads. It comes in all three sizes. Once you’ve completed one revolution with Grrip tape, you don’t need to keep holding it in place, making the process much easier
Which materials can I apply PTFE tape to?
Hercules has tapes for all threaded pipes, valves and fittings, including those that carry acids, solvents, alkalis, steam, hot and cold water, LP gas and natural gas. They work on virtually any pipe materials, including brass, stainless steel, copper, galvanized or plastic pipes.
What tape should I use for plumbing like shower heads?
Grrip tape. Not only is it easier to use, it’s gray, so it blends in well with chrome or brushed nickel fixtures. Grrip tape is a good utility tape that should be in every plumber’s bag.
