The essential tools we usually associate with a plumber are pipe wrenches and plungers. One helps to create the network of pipes that bring fresh water and take away the "used" stuff; the other is for addressing one of a householder's most common plumbing problems. There's a third P to go with these two plumbing basics; a third relatively simple and inexpensive tool that's essential to completing the process of moving water in and out of a residence: Plumber's Putty, like that made by Oatey.
Plumber's putty, also known as "fixture setting compound," is a petroleum-based product the consistency of Play-Doh®, with a greasy feel and a pronounced oily scent. Plumbers use this water-resistant product to create a seal around the base of a faucet or valve, or to seat the tailpiece ("drain") in a sink or lavatory. It's applied in liberally and allowed to squish out around the fixture as it is tightened into place to form a sort of instant gasket.
Oatey Plumber's Putty is used straight from the can: just warm a bit in a closed hand, then roll it into a putty snake and press into place, making certain to use enough to fill the entire void. Then tighten the fixture securely - excess putty can be scraped off and returned to the can. This oil-based putty is far less volatile than water or spirit-based products, and keeps for years if the lid is closed. I bought my last can of Oatey's so long ago it came in a can (at least 20 years old) instead of a plastic pot. and was still pliable the last time I used it. I finally bought a new can... errr, pot, this week.
Since it's petroleum-based, Oatey's Plumber's Putty shouldn't be used on porous materials like natural stone, or on plastic; in those applications you'll need to use a silicon-based product. This one's fine on steel, enamel, or porcelain, however.
One can of Oatey's Plumber's Putty will probably last most DIYers a lifetime (unless you move as often as I do and have to regularly install new faucets... In any case, this DIY plumber (have I mentioned that I detest plumbing?) heartily recommends it.
By the way: you'll probably need a Basin Wrench, too...
Fantastic prices with ease & c...(Stock status: N/A)
Stainless fixture setting compound for frames, faucets, bowls and sinks. Stays flexible; will not crack or shrink. Not for use on marble. Meets milita...More at Amazon Marketplace
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