How to Seal a Sink Drain with Plumbers Putty

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Sink drains are often challenging to clean out. Plumbing putty is one solution.

Plumbers putty is a product made specifically for sealing sinks and bathtub drains. It’s used to fill up holes and cracks in pipes and fixtures.

It comes in different colors and textures, depending on what type of pipe it is meant to cover. For example, some plumber’s putty is clear, while others are opaque.

There are two types of plumbing putty: dry and wet. Dry putty is easier to use than wet putty.

A common problem with sink drains is that they clog easily. This happens when hair gets stuck in the drain and grows into a big ball.

When this happens, you may notice water backing up into the sink. The easiest way to fix this problem is to remove the plug from the drain and let the water run until the blockage clears. Then, you can clean the drain using a plunger or a snake.


Steps to Seal a Sink Drain with Plumbers Putty

1. Remove the Plug From Your Sink Drain

To remove the plug from your sink drain, turn off the main supply valve. Next, unscrew the nut at the bottom of the drainpipe.

Then, pull out the drainpipe by lifting it. Now, lift out the plug.

2. Clean Out the Sink Drain

plumbers putty for sink drain

After removing the plug, use a plunger to push any debris down into the drain. If there is still some debris left, use a snake to help dislodge it.

3. Apply Plumbers Putty

Next, apply the plumbers putty around the drain opening. Make sure to get all of the corners and edges.

4. Replace the Plug

Replace the plugin its original position. Tighten the screw once again.

5. Turn On Water Supply Valve

Turn the water supply back on once the plumber’s putty has dried completely.

6. Run Water Through the Sink

Run cold water through the sink to make sure everything is working correctly. You should be able to see if anything is blocking the drain.


When Not To Use Plumbers Putty

plumbers putty for sink drain

If you have a slow-moving drain, it might not work well as an alternative to a plunger. Also, do not use plumbers’ putty to repair a toilet bowl.

We don’t recommend using plumbers’ putty on toilets because it will damage the porcelain.


Plumbers Putty Advantages

The advantages of using plumbers’ putty include:

  • Easy to Use
  • No Mess
  • Stays Fresh
  • Works Well
  • Can be used with different types of pipes

Is It Better To Use Silicone Or Plumber’s Putty?

plumbers putty for sink drain

Silicone is better than plumbers’ putty because silicone works best with plastic piping. However, plumbers’ putty is more flexible than silicone.

This means that it can fill gaps where pipes come together.

Also, silicone dries quickly, so you won’t need to wait long before you can start using it.

However, if you want something that stays fresh longer, try using plumbers’ putties instead of silicone.


What Is Plumbers Putty Made Of?

Most plumbers’ putty contains rubber, making it flexible enough to fit into tight spaces.

Some plumbers’ putty also contains silicon oil, which helps it stay soft for a long time.

It also contains additives like calcium chloride, which prevents it from drying out too fast.

It is important to note that most plumbers’ putty comes in two different forms:

  • Liquid form
  • Dry form

Liquid Form

The liquid version is usually poured directly onto the area being repaired.

Dry Form

The dry form is placed over the damaged area and then pressed firmly against the pipe.


Tips for Using Plumbers’ Putty

plumbers putty for sink drain

Here are some tips for using plumbers’ putty:

1. Follow the Directions

Follow the directions carefully when applying the putty. This includes how much to use, where to place it, and how to clean it after it dries.

2. Work Quickly

Work quickly when repairing your plumbing system. The faster you fix things, the less likely they will break down later.

3. Keep Your Hands Away From The Pipe

Do not touch the pipe while you’re applying the putty. Doing so could cause the putty to crack or peel off.

4. Clean Up After Yourself

Clean up any mess immediately after repairing your plumbing system.

Use a damp cloth to wipe away any excess putty.

5. Don’t Overdo It

Don’t apply too much putty at once. Too much putty can cause it to harden, making it difficult to remove.

6. Wait For It To Dry Before Turning Off The Water

plumbers putty for sink drain

Wait until the putty has dried entirely before turning off the water. If you turn off the water too soon, the putty may still be wet.

7. Make Sure That Everything Is Level

Make sure that the putty is level before pressing it against the pipe.

8. Apply Enough Pressure

Apply enough pressure when using the plumbers’ putty to ensure that the putty sticks to the pipe.

9. Let It Sit

Let the putty sit for about 30 minutes before removing it. This allows the putty to set appropriately.

10. Remove Any Excess Putty

Remove any excess putty by wiping it away with a damp cloth.

11. Avoid Touching It Again

Avoid touching the putty again after it has been removed. Doing so could damage it.


FAQs

Q: What does plumbers putty look like?

A: It looks similar to caulk.

Q: How do I know if my sink drain needs to be fixed?

A: You’ll usually see water backing up into the basin when something goes wrong with the drain.

Q: Can I use plumbers putty to repair other home parts?

A: Yes, but only if you have access to them. For example, you could use it to patch up leaky faucets or toilets.

Q: Why is there a warning label on Plumbers Putty stating it may cause cancer?

A: There is no scientific evidence that suggests that putting plumbers putty near your skin causes cancer. However, it is recommended that you wear gloves when applying them.

Q: Is plumber’s putty safe to use around children?

A: No. Children should not play with it because it contains lead.

Q: How soon can you use the sink after applying plumbers putty?

It depends on how quickly the plumber’s putty dries. If you’re worried about waiting too long, you can always use a spray bottle filled with warm water instead.

Q: What is the best type of plumbers putty for sealing a sink drain?

There are many different types of plumbers putty available. Some are made specifically for sinks, while others are designed to work on pipes.

Q: What is the difference between plumbers’ putty and caulking?

Caulking is used to fill cracks in walls, floors, etc. Plumbers’ putty is used to fill holes and gaps.

Q: How long does it take for plumbers’ putty to dry?

This varies depending on the temperature and humidity in your area. In general, it takes about one hour at room temperature.

Q: Where can I buy plumbers’ putty online?

You can find plumbers’ putty online from Amazon.com.

Q: Will plumbers putty work on my bathroom sinks?

Yes! The same product works excellent on bathroom sinks. Just follow the instructions carefully, so you don’t damage your sink.

Q: Does a plumber’s putty come in different colors?

Yes, some products come in different colors.

Q: Are there any special tools required to apply plumbers putty?

No, all you need is a pair of scissors.

Q: Do I have to remove old plumbing before applying plumbers putty to fix leaks?

Yes, you should remove any old plumbing materials first.

Q: How soon can you use the sink after applying plumbers putty?

It depends on how quickly the putty dries.

If you want to get back to using the sink, wait until the putty has dried completely.

Q: How much plumbers putty do I need?

To seal a small hole, you will typically need 1/4 cup (6 oz.) of plumbers’ putty.

You will typically require 3/8 cups (12 oz.) to seal a larger hole.

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