HOW TO USE PLUMBERS PTFE TAPE – Plumbers PTFE tape comes in rolls and is designed to wrap around nut threads, which forms a water tight seal to prevent plumbing pipe nut joints from leaking. In this guide we’ll show you where and when to use PTFE tape, that will help prevent leaking pipe joints.
Step 1
Compression Joints – Many plumbing joints now come with compression joints. When these are used the water pressure in the pipes create a very strong seal and so there is no real need to use PTFE tape on these joints. There are a few occasions where you might notice a slight amount of water leakage on a compression joint and in this instance you can use PTFE tape to help prevent leaking. Once you fit a compression joint test it first to see if there is any water leakage before applying PTFE tape.
Step 2
Threaded Joints – This is one instance where you would use PTFE tape.
Step 3
To apply PTFE tape pull a small amount from the reel. Keep the PTFE flat and straight – DO NOT snap it off the reel at this point. Note that it is very easy to twist PTFE tape so be gentle. The idea is to lay this on the thread so that as you wrap it you maintain the even width of the PTFE tape. If you are overly zealous you will simply twist the PTFE tape into what looks like a length of string.
Step 4
Lay the PTFE tape on the thread and wrap it around. When you have gone around the thread once go around it again ensuring that you pull the tape tight.
Step 5
Wrap the PTFE tape tightly around the threat 4 or 5 times and then snap off from the reel.
Step 6
PTFE tape is very thin and you will clearly see the threads of the joint you are working on, as the PTFE molds itself around the thread.
Step 7
Run your thumb around the thread to smooth out the PTFE tape.
Step 8
You can now screw the joint in place.
Acknowledgements: Video - Ultimatehandyman.co.uk
