How to Properly Apply Teflon Tape

Teflon tape — also called thread seal tape, plumbers tape, or PTFE tape — is a film tape used in plumbing work to create a tighter and deeper seal when screwing or connecting two pieces of piping. Strictly speaking, the name of the tape is polytetrafluoroethylene tape. Teflon is a brand name referring to a popular manufacturer of polytetrafluoroethylene, although the Teflon company does not produce Teflon tape.

When applied correctly, Teflon tape will help reduce leaks and keep out dirt or dust by filling any gaps between the pipe's threads. Just as Teflon pans prevent food from sticking to the pan, Teflon tape's nonstick properties prevent substances from sticking to the tape. It's also resistant to high temperatures, which prevents it from warping when exposed to heat.

It is not difficult to apply PTFE tape, but it is important to apply it correctly so it has the desired effect. Properly applied Teflon tape can keep two pieces of piping locked tightly together without letting any water come through, whereas poorly applied tape results in leaks. Luckily, it's usually quick and easy to spot an error and simple to remove and reapply the Teflon tape if needed.

Where to Apply Teflon Tape

Because of its leakproof properties, PTFE tape is most often used for applications involving water. However, it's sturdy enough to have a wide variety of other uses. Some of the more common places to apply plumbers tape include:

Shower arms
Showerheads
Threaded tub spouts
Kitchen sink leaks
Pipe-to-coupling connections
Pipe-to-valve connections
Vehicles (for temporary fixes)

Steps to Properly Applying Teflon Tape

Step 1: The first step is to clean your pipe and connecting piece, making sure to remove any dirt or dust. Do not use a pipe dope compound. When combined with plumbers tape, pipe dope compounds can overload the threads.
Step 2: Next, pay attention to the direction of the pipe's threading. When the pipe is turned into the fitting, the friction from the threads should cause the tape to tighten. You will want to apply the tape in the opposite direction of the twist of the connecting pipe. When the pipe is facing you, this will be a clockwise application.
Step 3: Once you have determined the direction for your application, peel the tape from the spool and line it up to the second line of the threading. By lining it up here — instead of at the top of the pipe — it will be easier for your connecting piece to lock into your pipe. Make sure the tape is lying flat and not bunched up.
Step 4: Tightly wrap the tape clockwise, but without pulling too hard such that the threads are strained. With each full rotation of the pipe, move the PTFE Teflon tape down so that it overlaps half of the previous layer.
Step 5: Wrap three full rotations and ensure the tape is flat to the surface without any gaps. It is important not to overwrap your pipe — too much thickness can prevent a tight seal — so stick with three full rotations to start.
Step 6: Rip or cut the tape when you are done and use your fingertips to smooth the edges of the tape firmly to the pipe.

After Applying Thread Seal Tape

You can now apply the connecting piece. To test your work, check to see if there is any bunching or twisting of your Teflon tape. If you have applied the tape in the wrong direction, you can expect the connecting piece to catch the tape and work against it as it is screwed on.

If applied in the correct direction, there will be no bunching or twisting, and your connecting piece will turn easily and without friction. If you've applied the tape incorrectly, remove the connecting piece, remove the tape, and try again, this time wrapping the Teflon tape in the opposite direction following the steps above.

Your next step is to check for any leaks. If you spot a small leak, try tightening your connecting piece with a wrench and retesting. If the leak continues, you may need to tighten the tape or add another layer. Always check your work to ensure that you have created a water-tight, insulated seal between the two pieces.

Types of Plumbers Tape

Different types of plumbers tape are designed for different uses. For example, plumbers tape can be used on some gas-pipe connections, but this requires a special type of tape — typically colored yellow — rated for gas lines. This tape can also be used on all standard metal pipe materials as well as on rigid plastic pipes.

Here are a few other popular types of PTFE tape:

Pipe Thread Seal Tape 4 Mil (8604A). This is a good, general-purpose thread seal tape that lubricates joints to create a leakproof seal.
PTFE Coated Glass Fabric Tape 3 Mil (78103). Coated glass fiber tape is a type of PTFE tape that contains a layer of fiberglass threads in between the adhesive and the Teflon coating. It is particularly heat resistant, which makes it ideal for heat sealing bars. Tape Jungle's coated glass fiber tape is also available in 5, 6, and 10 mils.
Skived PTFE Tapes 2 Mil (80204). Pure skived Teflon tape is a silicone adhesive with high heat tolerance. It is typically used for electrical applications. Five and 10 mil are also available.
Ultra High Molecular Weight UHMW Polyethylene Tape (749XX). Ultra high molecular weight PTFE tape is an acrylic adhesive usually used in automotive and mechanical applications. It is currently available in 3, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mil.

Buying PTFE Tape

You can buy Teflon tape under the names seal tape, thread seal tape, Teflon tape, or plumbers tape. The most standard industry term is thread seal tape or thread-sealing tape. Tape Jungle is the premiere online shop for all of your tape needs. Check out our selection and pick the tape that's right for your project.