Putty, nor anything else, will seal it if the joint has been damaged. If the joint was not assembled at an angle, then tightening should stop the leak, unless it has already been overtightened, in which case you have to do it all over again.
Loosen the other coupling nut and move the P trap away from the draining pipe. Following the manufacturer's instructions, wrap a length of plumbers tape around the threads of the pipe. Move the P trap back into position with the draining pipe and reconnect the pipes with the coupling nut. Tighten both coupling nuts.
Type of Tape: Silicone tape is often more effective for leaks because it creates a tighter seal than regular plumber's tape, which is better for threaded connections. If the leak persists or worsens, consider contacting a plumber for professional assistance.
There are two types of tape that are commonly used for pipe leaks – pipe thread tape and silicone tape. Pipe thread tape is sometimes called “thread seal tape,” “PTFE tape,” “Teflon tape,” or “plumbers tape.” It helps to create a watertight seal between plumbing joints.
Epoxy putty: Epoxy putty is a two-part compound that can be mixed together to form a strong adhesive. It's ideal for sealing leaks in pipes and can be used on both metal and plastic pipes. Epoxy putty is also resistant to chemicals and can be used on surfaces that come into contact with water.
Wrap PTFE tape about five times clockwise around the threads of each compression joint. PTFE tape repels water and will help create a watertight seal. When putting PTFE tape on a thread, wrap the tape in the opposite direction to the thread on the pipe so it doesn't unravel when you tighten the nut.
If you tighten a threaded joint more than two turns beyond finger tightness, you may cause the joint to warp over time, which will eventually cause a leak. Be Careful When Connecting Pipes Made of Different Materials.
Leaking at the Tap
If water is leaking from out the top of the Universal Tap Connector, it is usually resolved by further tightening the connector onto the tap. Try using a towel around it to get a better grip.
Thread sealant, commonly known as "pipe dope," is used on a pipe to help secure a seal between threaded connectors. It comes as either a paste or tape and helps fill the threads between the pipe and fitting. When performing any plumbing project, choosing the right thread sealant is important.
Thus, it should not be used in any pressurized connection, such as a gasketed fitting or on the thread of pipes. Historically, plumber's putty was used to seal a leaky toilet or toilet bowl to a finished floor; however, we do not recommend it for these types of applications.
Recent experiments by engineers working in industry show that the leak might also simply stop, sealed by a small capping droplet. That's surprising because the leak stops even when there's still a nonzero pressure trying to push the fluid out. “It's straightforward how a leak starts,” says Jensen.
Plumber glue: Your guide to problem-free plumbing repairs. Always use plumber glue when doing plumbing jobs around the house. It's the best way to ensure joints won't leak later. This inexpensive, easy-to-use adhesive is the secret to problem-free repairs.
If you need a quick fix for a leak in a joint, it's better to use epoxy putty. First, clean and dry the leaking area. Then, mix and knead the two-part epoxy putty together to start the chemical reaction and apply it to the leak and around the whole joint with your fingers or a putty knife.
Average Flat Rate
Some plumbing jobs are billed at a flat rate. As of 2025, the average plumber rates for larger repairs are typically between $500 to $800, while smaller jobs like repairing toilets, sinks, faucets, or bathtubs typically range from $125 to $350.
Plumber's tape, also known as “Teflon tape”, helps you seal and waterproof threaded pipe joints. The leaks in your pipes can be quickly and easily fixed with plumber's tape. Just wrap the tape tightly around the joint and pull it snugly. The tape's impermeable seal will stop the leak from spreading further.
To apply PTFE thread sealant tape sealant on a pipe, you wrap the male pipe in the direction of the thread tightly. After the threads are completely covered, cut the tape and firmly press on the ends of the thread. Connect the male pipe to the female pipe and use an adjustable wrench to help tighten the pipes.
You can tighten by hand, by using a wrench, or a mixture of the two. By tightening the fitting with your hand, you can ensure that the threads are lined up correctly. If threads crossover, not only does it make it harder to tighten, you also risk stripping the threads.
Apply a good coat of pipe joint compound to the threads on the male fitting, you don't need to apply the joint compound to the female side. If you are using thread tape instead of joint compound, wrap the male threads with several layers of tape.
For minor leaks, you can use plumber's tape, self-fusing silicone tape, or epoxy putty. Each of these methods helps seal leaks in pipes and fittings.
Plumber's putty is a soft, pliable sealant commonly used in plumbing projects. Known for its ease of use, it creates effective watertight seals for fixtures like sinks and faucets without hardening or bonding permanently.
Are you looking for a way to create a watertight seal in or around your plumbing system or a leaky pipe? Then plumbers' putty may be the solution you need!