What Is The Best Way To Seal A Leak On A Threaded Pipe?

No one wants to deal with leaky pipes; it wastes water, makes a mess, and just looks bad. But, when you have connections that use fittings and threaded pipes, you can inevitably end up with leaks. Primarily, leaks occur because no one used the proper sealant (or no sealant) during installation or the sealant’s worn out.

If your threaded pipe leaks, you can try things like epoxy putty or waterproof duct tape. However, these solutions are only temporary, and you need a more permanent solution to stop the leak for good. You need to redo the connection; of course, the best way is to ensure a proper connection in the beginning.

If you notice your threaded pipe leaking at a connection, you can always attempt tightening the connection first. This is because connections can tend to loosen a bit over time due to use and other factors. However, if the leak persists, you’ll need to move on to other options, which might include calling a plumber.

Depending on the severity of the leak, it may be obvious immediately or present itself over time. If you don’t notice an apparent leak, look for dampness or puddles forming on the floor below the pipes.

If there is no other water elsewhere, then the puddles are likely coming from a leaky connection. If you suspect a leak, feel the pipe around the fitting, you’ll feel wetness. Then, dry your hand and feel up further on the pipe. If this part of the pipe is dry, then you know the leak is coming from the connection. If the rest of the pipe has water on it, the water could be coming from elsewhere. Then, it runs down the pipe, appearing to be leaking from the connection.

Again, in more obvious cases, you might see the leak coming from the connection. However, even then, it’s worth making sure it’s not water coming from elsewhere and simply dripping from the connection point.

Either way, place a bucket under the drip to protect your floor while you plan your next steps.

To temporarily seal a leak at its source, apply epoxy putty to the area. You can find epoxy putty for between $5 and $7 at home improvement stores or online.

First, turn off the water supply and drain any water from the damaged pipe. Next, clean the area thoroughly and let it dry entirely before applying the putty.

Knead the putty to make it pliable, ensuring you apply enough material to cover the whole area surrounding the leak. Since various products can require different applications, ensure you read the instructions carefully for the putty you’ve chosen. Allow the putty to cure for the recommended time in the instructions before turning on the water flow.

Finally, once you’ve turned the water back on, check for leaks. You might need to use more epoxy or try a different method if the leak persists.

You can purchase a pipe repair kit for about $12 to $15 for an alternative temporary solution. Look for a kit that includes a waterproof fiberglass tape fit for repairing emergency leaks.

Before applying the tape, shut off the water and ensure you’ve carefully read the directions. Wrap the tape around the connection with the leak, overlapping it as you go.

You can use waterproof duct tape for a speedy fix (but don’t plan on it lasting too long). A 10-foot roll costs about $12 to $14 at most home improvement stores or online. Simply turn off the water and dry the area, then wrap it as many times as needed with the tape.

PTFE stands for polytetrafluoroethylene, but people more commonly use the trade name “Teflon.” Teflon tape is very flexible, making it easy to apply to a variety of metal threads. You can find Teflon tape in different versions for water, gas, or air.

Many pros don’t recommend using Teflon on threaded PVC pipes. This is because it can make the threads too wet, resulting in potential overtightening and damage.

Also called pipe dope, this sealant is by far the most versatile. It’s a paste or putty that you brush on, and it is very effective in many different circumstances. These compounds don’t fully set, allowing them to retain some flexibility to help cope with movement or changes in pressure.

Although it’s not as easy to use as Teflon tape (and pricier), it’s the favored choice of most professional plumbers. You can use it on metal or plastic threaded pipes.

These types of sealants are best for specialty repairs or applications as opposed to general repairs. This is mainly because they are the priciest option and can take 24 hours to fully cure. Plus, they don’t work well with plastic and can only cure when no air is present.

However, these sealants provide some of the strongest, longest-lasting seals.

No matter what sealant you end up using, it’s essential to pay attention to what type of pipe it’s best suited. Make sure to read the packaging carefully on any sealant you choose. Also, take note of the temperature and pressure thresholds for the sealant.

Related Questions

How much would a professional plumbing repair cost for a leaky pipe?

Most plumbers charge by the hour, anywhere from $50 to $100, or more. However, when it comes to fixing leaky pipes, a lot depends on the location of the leak. For example, if it’s an exposed pipe below your sink, it could be a pretty quick job. However, if it’s a pipe in the center of a tight crawl space, it’s likely to cost more. You could pay between $150 to $600 or more for a leaky pipe, especially if the plumber discovers more leaks. But, on the other hand, getting leaks fixed properly can ultimately save you a lot of money and headaches. Conversely, leaving a leak unrepaired can lead to significant property damage and higher utility costs. 

What if the pipe connection keeps leaking after applying Teflon tape and joint compound?

Sometimes, even after doing a stellar DIY job to fix a leaky threaded pipe, it still leaks. So before you hang up your DIY cap, don’t despair. It could be your pipes, or more pointedly, the threads. Over time, pipe threads can wear down, or it’s possible they were never in good shape. This is especially the case if someone cut the threads with a worn-out pipe threader. Therefore, if the leak is still there after your repair attempt, you might need a replacement pipe or fitting.