How Do You Use Teflon Plumber Tape?
Despite its name, Teflon tape actually has no adhesive backing to it. Thin, white and often sold on a spool, Teflon tape is made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) film and is used primarily by plumbers to seal pipe fittings and prevent leaks. Teflon tape is a good sealing agent because it is very thin and will fit in between pipe threads, while still being impermeable to water. When working with Teflon tape, it is important to apply the tape correctly to ensure a proper seal and to avoid loose tape from breaking off and potentially clogging a valve. Pull a short length of Teflon tape off its spool. Using your thumb, hold the end of the tape to the threads on the male end of a pipe. Wrap the tape clockwise around the threads of the pipe. Aim for covering only the treads of the pipe with Teflon tape, avoiding any excess overhang. Wrap the tape around the pipe threads two to three times. When wrapping, keep a little tension on the tape, so that it will form a good seal. When finished wr
