Threading is a very efficient mechanism, ideal for connecting piping systems

Threading is a very efficient mechanism, ideal for connecting piping systems. Depending on the material, they can safely transport a wide range of liquids and gases, withstanding extreme conditions and high pressures.
However, the threads may be subject to wear. One reason could be expansion and contraction, a cycle that occurs when pipes freeze and thaw. Threads can wear due to pressure changes or vibration. Any of these conditions may cause a leak. In the case of plumbing, this could mean thousands of dollars in flood damage. Gas pipeline leaks can be fatal.
Instead of replacing an entire section of pipe, you can seal the threads with a range of products. Apply sealant as a preventive measure or as a repair measure to prevent further leaks. In many cases, pipe thread sealants provide a quick and relatively inexpensive solution. The following list shows the best pipe thread sealants for various applications.
The goal is to prevent leakage, but the means to achieve this can vary greatly. The best pipe thread sealant for one material is sometimes not suitable for another. Various products do not withstand pressure or temperature in certain situations. The following product features and purchase guidelines can help determine which pipe thread sealant to purchase.
PTFE, short for polytetrafluoroethylene, is a synthetic polymer. It is often referred to as Teflon, but this is strictly a trade name. PTFE tape is highly flexible and can be easily applied to the threads of various metal pipes. There are varieties for air, water and gas lines. Telfon is generally not recommended for PVC as it will lubricate the threads. This is not a problem for many materials, but it can make the PVC threads too “smooth”, which can lead to damage from overtightening.
Pipe paste, also known as pipe joining compound, is a brush-applied thick paste often compared to putty. It is the most versatile pipe thread sealant and is highly effective in most conditions. Many are known as soft curing compounds. They do not fully cure, so they can compensate for some degree of movement or pressure changes.
Pipe paint is usually chosen by professionals; you will find it in most plumbing tool kits due to its effectiveness on all types of copper pipes used for water and plastic pipes used for sewers. However, it is more expensive than Teflon tape, not as easy to use, and most formulations are solvent based.
Anaerobic resins do not require solvents to cure, instead they react to eliminate air from entering the line. Resins have the properties of plastic, so they fill voids well, do not shrink or crack. Even with little movement or vibration, they seal very well.
However, these sealant resins require metal ions to cure, so they are generally not suitable for plastic pipe threads. They may also take up to 24 hours to seal properly. Anaerobic resins are more expensive than pipe coatings, making them the most expensive option. In general, resin products are best suited for professional applications rather than general home and yard use.
NOTE. Few pipe thread sealants are suitable for use with pure oxygen. A chemical reaction can cause a fire or explosion. Any repairs to oxygen fittings must be carried out by suitably qualified personnel.
In short, PTFE and anaerobic resin pipe thread sealants are suitable for metal pipes, and pipe coatings can seal pipes of almost any material. However, it is important to carefully check the suitability of the material. Metal pipes can include copper, brass, aluminium, galvanized steel, stainless steel and iron. Synthetic materials include ABS, cyclolac, polyethylene, PVC, CPVC and, in rare cases, fiberglass reinforcement.
While some of the best pipe thread sealants are universal, not all types are suitable for all pipe materials. Failure to verify that the sealant will work effectively with a particular plumbing material may result in additional leaks that require further corrective work.
It is important to ensure that the pipe thread sealant can withstand the current environmental conditions. Most of the time, the sealant must withstand extreme temperatures without freezing or cracking.
PTFE tape may seem like a basic product, but it is surprisingly resilient. General purpose tape is white and will typically withstand temperatures from minus 212 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. The yellow tape for gases has a similar upper limit, but some can withstand temperatures down to minus 450 degrees.
Pipe coatings and anaerobic resins are not as flexible in hot weather as they are in cold weather. Typically, they can withstand temperatures ranging from -50 degrees to 300 or 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This is sufficient for many applications, although it may limit outdoor use in some locations.
Most home DIYers will probably never have to worry about high pressure leaks. Natural gas is between ⅓ and ¼ pounds per square inch (psi), and while a leak may seem like a major leak, it’s unlikely that your home’s water pressure will exceed 80 psi.
However, pressures can be much higher in commercial facilities and the best pipe thread sealant for these environments must be able to withstand it. The molecular structures of gases and liquids lead to different pressure limits. For example, a pipe coating capable of withstanding a liquid pressure of 10,000 psi can only withstand an air pressure of about 3,000 psi.
When choosing the right product for the job, it is important to consider all aspects of thread sealant specifications. To make it easier for you, this compilation features the best pipe thread sealants for leaky pipes based on characteristics such as the type of pipe or its use.
Gasoila is a non-hardening pipe coating that contains PTFE to help it stay flexible. Thus, in addition to its high viscosity, the sealant is easy to apply with the included brush, even when cold. These properties also mean that the joints are resistant to movement and vibration. This sealant is effective on all common plumbing materials, including metals and plastics, and on pipes containing most gases and liquids. It is safe for hydraulic lines and pipelines carrying gasoline and mineral spirits, which can attack some pipe thread sealants.
Gasoila Thread Sealant can withstand liquid pressures up to 10,000 psi and gas pressures up to 3,000 psi. The operating temperature range from minus 100 degrees to 600 degrees Fahrenheit is one of the most versatile ranges for pipe coating. The sealant complies with internationally recognized general safety standards.
Dixon Industrial Tape is an inexpensive pipe thread sealant that should find a place in every toolbox. It is easy to use, there is no danger of dripping on delicate surfaces, and it does not need to be cleaned. This white PTFE tape is effective for sealing all kinds of metal pipes that carry water or air. It can also be used to reinforce old threads when the screw is loose.
This Dixon tape has an operating temperature range of -212 degrees Fahrenheit to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. While it is suitable for many domestic and commercial applications, it is not designed for high pressure or gas applications. This product is ¾” wide and fits most pipe threads. Its rolling length is nearly 43 feet for added savings.
Oatey 31230 Tube Fitting Compound is an excellent general purpose pipe thread sealant. This product is mainly used for water pipes; This product complies with NSF-61, which sets the standard for municipal water products. However, it can also seal leaks in lines carrying steam, air, corrosive liquids and many acids. Oatey fitting compounds are suitable for iron, steel, copper, PVC, ABS, Cycolac and polypropylene.
This mild formula withstands temperatures from minus 50 degrees to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and air pressure up to 3,000 psi and water pressure up to 10,000 psi. The eco-friendly and non-toxic formula allows it to be used as a pipe coating (although it may cause skin irritation).
The main problem with using sealants on PVC threads is that users often have to over-tighten the joint, which can lead to cracking or stripping. PTFE tapes are not recommended as they lubricate the threads and make it easier to re-tighten. Rectorseal T Plus 2 contains PTFE as well as polymer fibers. They provide extra friction and a secure seal without excessive force.
This emollient is also suitable for most other piping materials, including metals and plastics. It can seal pipes transporting water, gas and fuel at -40 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Gas pressure is limited to 2,000 psi and liquid pressure is limited to 10,000 psi. It may also be under pressure immediately after use.
Typically, white PTFE tape is used for general applications and yellow PTFE tape (eg Harvey 017065 PTFE Sealant) is used for gases. This heavy duty tape meets UL gas safety requirements. This Harvey tape is a versatile product that is recommended not only for natural gas, butane and propane, but also for water, oil and gasoline.
This yellow tape seals all metal and most plastic pipes, however, like all PTFE tapes, it is not recommended for use on PVC. Its thickness is also suitable for jobs such as repairing threads on bolts or valve fittings. The tape has an operating temperature range of minus 450 degrees to a maximum of 500 degrees Fahrenheit and is rated for pressures up to 100 psi.
Air duct paint is an all-purpose compound, but it usually comes in at least 4 ounce cans. This is too much for most toolkits. Rectorseal 25790 comes in a convenient tube for easy access.
Suitable for threading plastic and metal pipes, this soft curing compound is suitable for sealing pipes containing various gases and liquids, including drinking water. When used with gas, air, or water pressure up to 100 psi (suitable for most domestic installations), it can be pressurized immediately after service. The product has a temperature range of -50°F to 400°F and a maximum pressure of 12,000 psi for liquids and 2,600 psi for gases.
For most pipe thread sealing projects, users can’t go wrong with Gasoila – SS16, a high temperature resistant non-hardening PTFE paste. Buyers who prefer to avoid the mess of sticking may consider Dixon Sealing Tape, an affordable yet effective all-purpose PTFE tape.
Wrapping up our selection of the best pipe thread sealants, we’ve looked at two of the most popular product types: tape and sealant. Our recommended list offers buyers options for a variety of specific applications, from PVC to metal pipes for water or gas, we have the solution that best suits your situation.
During our research, we made sure that all of our recommendations were from well-known brands used by seasoned professionals. All of our best lockpicks withstand high temperatures and provide a secure seal.
At this point, you have learned about the various technical aspects to consider when choosing a pipe thread sealant. The Best Choice section lists some of the best pipe thread sealants for specific applications, but if you still have unanswered questions, check out the helpful information below.
Pipe coatings are generally best suited for PVC and Rectorseal 23631 T Plus 2 pipe thread sealant is the best compound for this purpose.
Many sealants are designed for permanent use, but most can be removed if needed. However, if the leak persists, the pipe or fitting may need to be replaced to fix the problem.
It depends on the product. For example, soft sealant never dries completely, so it is more resistant to vibration or pressure changes.
It depends on the type, but you should always start by cleaning the threads. The PTFE tape is applied clockwise to the male thread. After three or four turns, snap it off and press it into the groove. Pipe lubricant is usually applied to external threads.