Plumber’s Putty is a well-known material used as a sealant by plumbers all over the world to prevent and treat leaks in threaded plumbing. However, many people don’t realize that they have options.
We go through the different options available to learn which ones work the best (based on reviews and product information) for various different applications and preferences.
In this PlumbingNav guide, we will cover:
What are the best Plumbers Putty substitutes?
What are the different types of Plumber’s Putty alternatives?
This yellow sealant is made to work with a wide range of different materials, including PVC pipe, threaded metal pipe, and ABS pipe. It also works for your water heater since it can withstand temperatures up to 140 degrees and a wide variety of gases and materials.
The best plumber’s putty substitutes prevent threaded pipes from leaking for a long time by working like glue to seal all holes. They are also cost-effective and easy to work with.
The best plumber’s putty substitute will work on each fixture:
Silicone sealant can create a waterproof seal anywhere in your plumbing. It’s almost as effective as plumber’s putty, but it isn’t the traditional choice.
Epoxy Putty
Epoxy putty, or aquarium putty, works well in conditions with a lot of water. It’s a sticky material similar to Plumber’s Putty, but there are different brands available. After you apply the sealant, you will remove extra putty with a putty knife.
PTFE Tape
Thread seal tape wraps around threads of your plumbing to create an airtight and watertight seal. Some tape will have an adhesive side, while Teflon tape isn’t adhesive at all. This is a popular alternative to using pipe dope.
How Do Plumbers Putty Substitutes Work?
When you need to create watertight seals in your plumbing system, you start by picking your putty alternative of choice. Certain choices work better on porous materials and plastic materials, so you want something specifically designed for the specific material.
The sealant will fill in the holes in the threads or prevent the air and water that fills those holes from passing through.
What Do You Look For In The Best Plumbers Putty Alternatives?
Water and Temperature Resistant
You need to pick a sealant that can handle the needs of your plumbing system. In particular, you need it to be able to handle high water pressure, sometimes at high temperatures, while also preventing the pipes from freezing.
Works With All Pipes
Different plumbing material requires different needs when it comes to a sealant.
Pick a sealant approved for the following different materials, including PVC pipe (plastic pipe), rubber, and older materials like metal pipe.
Best Products Reviewed
Now let’s explore our favorite units so you can decide on the perfect choice for your situation.
This yellow sealant is made to work with a wide range of different materials, including PVC pipe, threaded metal pipe, and ABS pipe. It also works for your water heater since it can withstand temperatures up to 140 degrees and a wide variety of gases and materials.
This white Teflon sealant tape works to create an airtight and watertight seal at a variety of different temperatures (but not gas). You can get multiple uses out of this sealant tape that comes with 520” of tape on the role at ¾” wide.
This product, made in the United States, dries quickly to create a seal on different parts of your plumbing. The 4 oz. container is only enough for about one application, but you will be sure to get the job done right the first time with easy-to-understand directions.
This epoxy putty is completely waterproof, even able to install underwater in only 25 minutes. It can also work with iron pipe and fiberglass pipe, which many other products can’t accommodate. The sealant works even under temperatures of 350 degrees and pressure of 1300 psi.
This 10’ roll of plumber’s tape effectively prevents air, water, and moisture from damaging your plumbing system, and it can also be used for numerous other purposes. It has an adhesive backing, unlike Teflon tape.
You can find the tape in both white and black. The background also has a special UV resistance to protect it from deteriorating from the sun’s UV rays, making it appropriate for outdoor usage.
Pros
10’ of adhesive tape
UV resistance and waterproof
Works on glass, tarp, and other materials
Cons
Limited 4” width
Leaves sticky residue behind
Expensive
Final Thoughts On Plumbers Putty Substitutes
Plumber’s Putty is a great choice when it comes to plumbing sealant. However, you have other options as well. Porous materials are especially difficult when it comes to preventing leaks and moisture. However, our list of the five best plumbers putty substitute will get the job done.
Need Local Help?
Get Fast, Local Plumbing Service
Connect with an expert plumber in your local area to tackle any job – big or small. Find help with leaks, clogs, or full installations.
Select your service category on the form, provide your details, and an expert plumber will be in touch!
Plumbing Navigator is an informational site that connects visitors with local plumbers but does not directly provide plumbing services or operate as a licensed company.
FAQs Plumbers Putty Alternatives
What can I use instead of plumbers putty?
Instead of Plumbers Putty, you can use epoxy putty or Teflon tape.
Is it OK to use caulk instead of plumbers putty?
Yes. You can use silicone caulk sealant instead of plumber’s putty.
Can silicone be used instead of plumbers putty?
Yes. You can use a silicone sealant instead of Plumber’s Putty.
Is plumbers putty necessary?
Yes. Any time that you use threaded plumbing, you should use a sealant to prevent a plumbing leak.
Can I use duct seal instead of plumbers putty?
Teflon tape works better than duct seal as a replacement for Plumber’s Putty.
Can you use Play-Doh instead of plumbers putty?
No. You should not use Play-Doh instead of Plumber’s Putty, especially since the bright colors look childish and attract the attention of young children to your plumbing system.
Meet Your Plumbing Navigator
About Plumbing Navigator
We’re passionate about all things plumbing, and love sharing tips, “how-to”, and reviewing the latest products to help make your project a success!
Learn More Plumbing Tips
Want to tackle more plumbing projects? Check out these helpful guides!
Got Plumbing Questions? Search For In-Depth Answers Below!
About Plumbing Navigator
We write about "all things plumbing," helping you navigate common questions, repairs, and the best plumbing products on the market.
About Plumbing Navigator
We write about “all things plumbing,” helping you navigate common questions, repairs, and the best plumbing products on the market.
