How Does Tape for Pipe Leaks Work?

Leaking pipes can be a nightmare for homeowners and businesses alike. Not only can they cause water damage, but they can also lead to costly repairs. Fortunately, there is a simple solution that can help you fix leaks quickly and easily – pipe leak tape.

You can use different types of plumbing repair tape to fix different plumbing leak problems. Use pipe thread tape, sometimes called “Teflon” or “plumber’s” pipe, to fix leaking pipe connections. Use silicone, sometimes called “self-fusing,” “self-fusing,” or “leak repair” tape, to repair hairline cracks or other seamless pipe leaks.

Duct tape has a surprising number of plumbing uses. In fact, professional plumbers effectively use duct tape all the time. You just need to have the right tape for the job and know how to use it. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about pipe leak tape and how it works.

What is Pipe Leak Tape?

There are two types of tape commonly used to repair leaking pipes: pipe thread tape and silicone tape. Both are commonly available at hardware stores, but have different uses:

Pipe Thread Tape

Pipe thread tape you may know as “thread seal tape”, “PTFE tape”, “Teflon tape” or “plumbing tape”. It is used to create a tight seal between pipe joints and to lubricate the joint between joints for smoother threading and easier disassembly.

Silicone Tape

Silicone tape is also known as “self-fusing tape” or “self-fusing tape” due to its unique self-adhesive nature. Unlike other tapes, it doesn’t actually stick to the pipe; only to yourself. Silicone tape can be wrapped around a pipe leak to form a temporary but permanent seal.

When should I use each Pipe Leak Tape?

As mentioned above, pipe threads and silicone tapes have very different uses. Teflon pipe thread tape does not work effectively on seamless pipe leaks, and you should never put silicone tape on your pipe threads. Instead, make sure you only use each strip for the right application:

Leaking Joints

If your pipe joints are leaking, it’s probably because the joint between them has come loose, or the tape or sealant used to seal the joint has worn out. Pipe thread tape can help solve both of these problems. If you find that your pipe leak is coming from a connection, consider fitting pipe thread tape.

Fracture Leaks

Hairline cracks and other leaks occur when pipes are damaged in any way. If the leak is clearly coming from the middle of a plumbing pipe and not from a joint, it is likely a Fracture. Silicone leak tape can help create a temporary watertight seal to prevent water from leaking out while you look for a permanent solution. Threaded tubing will not accomplish this effectively and should not be used.

To summarize:

• Use pipe thread tape to seal leaky connections
• Use silicone tape to temporarily stop breakage on the tubes themselves

How to use Plumber’s Tape

Plumbing tape is quite easy to use for either application. Follow these directions:

Pipe thread Tape on Leaking Joints

To use pipe thread tape to repair a leaking pipe joint, you’ll need to replace the worn seal between the joints:

1. Shut off the water supply from the hose
2. Unscrew the leaking pipe connection (put a bucket or towel under it first)
3. Remove any existing worn seals
4. Wrap the tape around the threads in the opposite direction you will be screwing the pipe back on
5. Wrap the ribbon around four to six times, starting with the second thread from the bottom
6. Make sure the tape is snug to the end of the tube
7. Screw the hose back into the fitting and test for leaks

Silicone Tape for Fracture

This process is even simpler. 

1. Locate the leak
2. Close the tap water
3. Dry the area of the pipe around the leak
4. Wrap the tape around it as tightly as possible with your pipe repair tape
5. Also wrap the tape around the area around the leak, overlapping several times
6. Turn on the water and see if the leak has stopped

Can pipe leak tape fix a leak for good?

Pipe thread tape is commonly used and can last for years. As long as the seal doesn’t leak, you can consider this a long-term (though ultimately temporary) fix. Silicone tape, on the other hand, should only be used as a temporary measure while you look for more permanent solutions. You should use silicone tape to prevent a leak from getting worse or wasting more water while you call a plumber. This is never a permanent solution to leaks.

Pipe leak tape is a surprisingly simple and helpful solution to many plumbing problems. In fact, replacing your gaskets with pipe thread tape is a great, easy DIY project you can do to keep your plumbing healthy.

FAQs

Q: How long will pipe leak tape last?

A: Pipe leak tape can last for several years, depending on the environment it is used in. It is important to note that exposure to UV light can degrade the tape over time, so it is best to use it in areas that are not exposed to sunlight.

Q: Is pipe leak tape safe to use?

A: Yes, pipe leak tape is safe to use. It is made from non-toxic, food-grade silicone that is safe for use in plumbing systems.

Q: Can pipe leak tape be used on hot water pipes?

A: Yes, pipe leak tape can be used on hot water pipes. It is designed to withstand high temperatures and pressures, making it suitable for use in hot water systems.

Q: Can pipe leak tape be used on gas pipes?

A: No, pipe leak tape should not be used on gas pipes. It is not designed to withstand the pressures and temperatures associated with gas pipes and can be dangerous if used incorrectly.

Permanent Help with Leaky Pipes

For a professional pipe repair or pipe replacement, the experts at Wisler Plumbing & Air are just a phone call away. If your pipes need more than a little duct tape, give us a call for fast, reliable plumbing help in Roanoke and Salem VA.