The main difference between plumbers putty or silicone for sink drain is how easy the substances are to manipulate or remove. Plumbers putty is very easy to manipulate into tight areas, and it's also easier to remove. That makes silicone putty better for waterproofing, even if it's more difficult to work with.
Silicone sealant is the best type of caulk for kitchen use. Silicone is waterproof and non-toxic. It is flexible, durable and rarely cracks. It is capable of adhering to a wide variety of substrates, including metal, glass, porcelain and ceramic.
Caulk is more durable than a plumber's putty because it's stronger and lasts longer. It also works better with older pipes because it doesn't rust as easily as a plumber's putty does.
For sealing a kitchen sink, or anywhere water could be present, choose a GE-branded 100% silicone sealant, like GE Tub & Tile Silicone 1® sealant. This sealant is 100% waterproof, permanently flexible and has 7-year mold-free product protection,1 so you can create a lasting, mold-resistant and watertight seal.
Plumber's putty is recommended only for setting bowls, fixtures, faucets, sink frames and strainers and is compatible with stainless-steel fixtures. Plumber's putty should not be used on plastics (Acrylic or ABS) because it will affect the integrity of the material and lead to product failure.
It takes a few hours for plumber's putty to set. You can use a drain or tap immediately after installing the putty, although waiting a few hours may yield the best results. The putty will expand so might create a tighter seal.
No, it may cause corrosion of the rubber gasket. The gasket is meant to be the only means of sealing the connection. Make sure the connection is tightened enough to seat into the rubber causing it to seal.
Most undermount sink manufacturers recommend that you use pure, 100-percent silicone sealant for undermount sink installation. Silicone sealants are designed for resilient flexibility and have good adhesive properties. If an ordinary caulk was used to seal the sink, it likely will fail quickly.
Because of this, you do need something in addition to the bead of adhesive or sealant around the rim of the sink to support that weight. Silicone on its own definitely has holding power, but it must not be the only thing doing the work.
In general, silicone and acrylic latex caulk can be dry to touch within 30 minutes of air exposure—depending on how humid or well-ventilated your space is. But it can take 1 to 10 days, depending on the formula, for the caulk to fully set or cure—in other words, become completely waterproof and ready for use.
Even when you're sure a project calls for plumber's putty, there are instances where it shouldn't be used. Putty should remain malleable throughout its life. To use it, plumbers roll the putty between our fingers to shape it. If you begin rolling the putty and it flakes or cracks, toss it out.
You can start using the sink drain or faucet immediately after installing plumbers putty. There is no drying time because it doesn't dry. It just seals the gaps and the sink, drain, or faucet which can be used immediately after application of the plumbers putty.
Why sealing kitchen sinks is necessary. Creating a seal around the kitchen sink is a simple step often overlooked by DIYers. Sealing around kitchen sinks or sealing a sink drain with silicone will keep your sink in good condition and prevent future problems.
For a stainless or metal sink (such as those commonly found in kitchens), you'll want to use a silicone-based caulk. For a porcelain sink (more common in bathroom spaces), a latex-based caulk will be a better fit. When choosing caulk, it's also important to select a color that will best suit the space.
The main difference between plumbers putty or silicone for sink drain is how easy the substances are to manipulate or remove. Plumbers putty is very easy to manipulate into tight areas, and it's also easier to remove. That makes silicone putty better for waterproofing, even if it's more difficult to work with.
Make sure the depressed area around the sink drain is also clear of any built-up material. Afterwards, apply a bead of silicone caulk around the drain hole in the sink. Then, apply a second bead along the underside of the drain flange.
Plumber's putty will always remain as soft and damp as when you first took it out of the container—just as long as it stays out of extremely high temperatures. In especially cold or humid conditions, you may need to wait 10 minutes before using a plumbing fixture to allow the seal to form.
How do I use Liquid-Plumr® Clog Destroyer Plus+ Hair Clog Eliminator™? Slowly pour the entire contents of bottle over the drain opening; For slow drains, wait 15 minutes. For clogged drains, wait for the drain to clear. Then flush with hot tap water.