Sealing threaded PVC

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Dom

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Is it safe to use plumbers putty to seal threaded connections on PVC?
 
You don't want plumber's putty....you want pipe joint compound for PVC. If you're only doing a couple joints, get the stuff in the tube....the can is a bit costly...8 - 10 bucks.
 
I'd suggest threaded PVC tape, just lay it on your threads and then give it a few turns. Whatever you use it on will basically be glued though, its not coming apart
 
I second the use of Silicone over any other method. GE1 from home depot or any other 100% silicone with no mold inhibitors. Teflon tape has been known to break schedule 40 bulkheads if used improperly.
 
Why would you want to use silicone? The idea of using threaded is so it comes apart easily. If you apply silicone it certainly won't be easy to remove.

Teflon paste on PVC threads. Teflon tape will add bulk and allow you to over tighten the fitting and possibly crack it. Hand tight is all threaded PVC needs to be to give a good seal. Anythign over hand tight will more then likely crack or split the fitting.

Plumbers putty is whats used under the drains in sinks to seal the drain to the bowl. it is not meant to be used as a thread sealant.
 
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Silicone it is...

Valid point: the idea of using threaded is to be able to disassemble. But I think it is more important to be leak free.
 
I used the teflon pipe dope. Basically the same as tape, I just find it easier. All it does is provide lubrication. It does not provide a seal same with teflon tape. It allows you to tighten the threads without the PVC sticking.
 
Why would you want to use silicone? The idea of using threaded is so it comes apart easily. If you apply silicone it certainly won't be easy to remove.

Teflon paste on PVC threads. Teflon tape will add bulk and allow you to over tighten the fitting and possibly crack it. Hand tight is all threaded PVC needs to be to give a good seal. Anythign over hand tight will more then likely crack or split the fitting.

Plumbers putty is whats used under the drains in sinks to seal the drain to the bowl. it is not meant to be used as a thread sealant.
In cases where silicon has been used to seal the threaded joint, unscrewing said joint is easy peasy. The silicon itself is easy to remove from the fitting, before reapplication and installation.
 
If you use silicone on threaded pvc you will easily be able to disassemble it later. Silicone does not bond very well to pvc but it will seal it with no problem. After you disassemble it just take a wire brush and brush it off. I use silicone on all my threaded fitting and have for a while now with no issues.
 
Why would you use anything besides the product designed specifically for the job? Oatley great white pipe joint compound is made for the purpose and recommended by PVC manufacturers for threaded connections.
I use silicone, because I think it is easier to work with and find it to work well. Pipe compound also works, as does teflon tape.
 
Plumber's putty is for sink basins or shower drains at the pan, it's basically a moldable gasket. It's not intended at all for threaded connections. For threaded pvc id just stick with teflon tape, you don't have to worry about excess pipe compound mixing with the tank water.
 
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