If you want to make sure your bathroom plumbing is correctly sealed, there are two main options available: plumbers putty and silicone tub drain. Both of these substances can be used to create a watertight seal around plumbing fixtures, but there are important differences between the two that you should be aware of before getting started. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each option so that you can make an informed decision.
What is Plumbers Putty?
Plumbers putty is a malleable, clay-like substance that is often used to create a watertight seal around plumbing fixtures. It is a popular choice for many people because it is relatively easy to use and can be found at most hardware stores. Plus, plumbers putty is a petroleum-based product, which means it is inexpensive and easy to find.
To use plumbers putty, you simply need to roll it into a ball and then press it around the fixture. Once it has been pressed into place, the putty will form a watertight seal that will prevent water from leaking out. Plumbers putty is also relatively easy to remove if need be, so it can be used in a wide range of applications.
What is Silicone Tub Drain?
Silicone tub drain is a type of silicone sealant that is designed to create a watertight seal around plumbing fixtures. It is a popular choice for many people because it is easy to apply, creates a strong seal, and is relatively inexpensive.
To use silicone tub drain, you will need to apply the sealant around the area that needs to be sealed. Once it has been applied, the sealant will form a watertight seal that will prevent any water from leaking out. However, silicone tub drain is a bit more difficult to remove than plumbers putty, so it is best to use it when you’re sure that you won’t need to make any changes in the future.
Benefits of Plumbers Putty
Plumbers putty is an inexpensive and easy-to-use option that can be found at most hardware stores. It is also easy to apply and remove, which makes it a great choice for a wide range of applications. Plus, it forms a strong and reliable seal that will prevent any water from leaking out.
Benefits of Silicone Tub Drain
Silicone tub drain is a strong and reliable sealant that will create a watertight seal around plumbing fixtures. It is also relatively easy to apply and can be found at most hardware stores. Plus, it is a bit more difficult to remove than plumbers putty, so it is a great choice if you want a more permanent solution.
Drawbacks of Plumbers Putty
Although plumbers putty is a great choice for many applications, it does have some drawbacks. First, it is a petroleum-based product, which means it can be quite messy to work with. Plus, it may not be suitable for use in certain areas, such as areas that come into contact with food or drinking water.
Drawbacks of Silicone Tub Drain
Silicone tub drain is generally a great choice for creating a watertight seal around plumbing fixtures, but it does have some drawbacks. First, it is a bit more difficult to remove than plumbers putty, so it is not a great choice if you think you may need to make any changes in the future. Plus, it can be quite messy to work with, so it may not be suitable for use in certain areas.
Comparing Plumbers Putty Vs. Silicone Tub Drain
When it comes to creating a watertight seal around plumbing fixtures, plumbers putty and silicone tub drain are both great options. Plumbers putty is an inexpensive and easy-to-use product that forms a strong and reliable seal, but it is a bit messier to work with and may not be suitable for use in certain areas. Silicone tub drain forms a strong and reliable seal, but it is a bit more difficult to remove and can be quite messy to work with.
Table for comparison
| Type | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbers Putty | Inexpensive and easy-to-use Strong and reliable seal |
Messy to work with May not be suitable for use in some areas |
| Silicone Tub Drain | Strong and reliable seal Relatively easy to apply |
Difficult to remove Messy to work with |
Conclusion
Plumbers putty and silicone tub drain are both great options for creating a watertight seal around plumbing fixtures. Plumbers putty is inexpensive and easy-to-use, but it is a bit messier to work with and may not be suitable for use in certain areas. Silicone tub drain forms a strong and reliable seal, but it is a bit more difficult to remove and can be quite messy to work with. Ultimately, the choice is up to you and should be based on your specific needs and preferences.