How to Seal a Pipe
Most people usually call the plumber to fix a leaking pipe, but simple plumbing tasks are things that you can do yourself. Leaky pipes can be easily repaired with simple tools at a minimum cost. If you want to repair or seal a pipe, here are some ways to do it.
Why Seal a Pipe?
Most plastic or metal pipes are meant to last and withstand corrosion. Leaky or corroded pipes can always be repaired or replaced by a plumber, but the cost of labor and pipe replacement can run up to hundreds of dollars for something you can do on your own. There are two common reasons why a pipe needs to be sealed:
Repair. Leaking pipes may be corroded or ill-fitted at joints or stress points. Sealing the pipe helps to rebuild and strengthen the structure of a damaged or ruined pipe.
Protection. Some sealant brands and types are sometimes applied to the surfaces and joints of a pipe to help protect the metal or the PVC from corrosion, stress, or water damage.
Teflon Tape
Teflon tape is often used to seal pipe joints. The tape provides a permanent, complete seal around and inside the pipe joint, which prevents water, gas, or other liquids from leaking out of the threads and crevices of the assembly. To use Teflon tape, follow these steps:
Wrap a thin layer of Teflon tape around the leading surface of the pipe that goes into the larger pipe or joint. One to two tape layers of thickness should be enough.
Bond the tape to the surface completely. You can simply rub your fingers all over the leading end to keep the tape smooth.
Carefully secure both pipes together.
Rubber Cement and Sealants
Rubber cement and other polymer-based sealant work like almost all adhesives: the molecules bond to each other, creating a solid compound that can patch up holes, seal cracks, or protect pipes from stress and corrosion. To use these products on a ruined pipe, follow these steps:
Inspect the surface of the pipe. If the hole is too big, you may need to replace the pipe altogether. If it’s small enough to be patched with plumbing adhesive, you may first need to sand the surface down before applying the polymer compound.
Apply the amount of sealant recommended by the manufacturer, and spread it around with a putty knife or the recommended tool.
Allow the sealant to dry and set for about 30 seconds to allow the molecules to bond and form the seal.
Sealing pipes will definitely involve a lot of elbow grease and some hard work, but it will definitely pay off in the end. By sealing pipes on your own, not only do you save your home from further ruin, but you also save yourself big money.