As a professional plumber with years of experience, I have encountered numerous misconceptions about plumber's putty. One of the most frequently asked questions is whether or not it hardens. The simple answer is yes, it does. However, there is more to it than that.
Plumber's putty
is an essential and versatile tool in any plumbing project.It is a soft, clay-like substance that creates airtight seals around faucets, drains, and sink accessories. But like any other material, it can harden over time. One of the main reasons for plumber's putty hardening is exposure to air. If left exposed for an extended period, it will become brittle and unusable. Even if stored in a sealed container, it can still harden after several months or years.
So, if you have an old container of plumber's putty, it's best to replace it with a new one. Another factor that can cause plumber's putty to harden is low-quality sealant. If the putty is not of good quality, it may dry out and crack when shaped, leading to leaks and other plumbing issues. That's why investing in high-quality plumber's putty from a reputable brand is crucial. But don't worry, there are ways to prevent plumber's putty from hardening too quickly. One trick is to knead the putty before use to warm it up and make it more pliable.
You can also store it in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap to keep air out.
Plumber's Putty vs Silicone
Many people often confuse plumber's putty with silicone, but they are two different products with different purposes. While both are used to create waterproof seals, there are some key differences between them.Plumber's putty
is soft and flexible, making it easy to remove and reapply if needed. It also doesn't work well underwater. On the other hand, silicone is a synthetic rubber that hardens to form an airtight seal.It is more durable and can be used in wet environments, making it ideal for sealing shower fixtures and tubs. So, which one should you use? It depends on the project. If you need to seal around faucets and drains, plumber's putty is the way to go. But if you're working on a shower or tub, silicone is a better choice.
How to Use Plumber's Putty
Now that we've established that plumber's putty does harden, let's talk about how to use it correctly. The first step is to clean the surface where you will be applying the putty.Make sure it is free of any dirt, grime, or old putty. Next, take a small amount of putty and knead it in your hands until it becomes soft and pliable. Roll it into a thin rope and apply it around the base of the faucet or drain. Press it down gently to create a tight seal. If there is any excess putty, you can remove it with a putty knife or your fingers. Then, wipe away any residue with a damp cloth.
The putty will start to harden within 30 minutes and will fully cure in 24 hours.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, plumber's putty does harden over time, but it is still an essential tool for any plumbing project. As long as you store it properly and use it correctly, you shouldn't have any issues with it hardening too quickly. And remember, if you do encounter any leaks or cracks, it's best to replace the putty rather than trying to fix it. So, the next time you're working on a plumbing project, don't be afraid to use plumber's putty. It's a reliable and cost-effective solution for creating airtight seals and preventing leaks.And now, you know the truth about plumber's putty and its hardening capabilities.
