PTFE Seal Tape 12MX22mmX0,075mm

PTFE seal tape is the plain white thread tape every plumber keeps in a pocket, and this roll is 12m long, 22mm wide and 75 microns thick. It seals the threads on water fittings before they go together.

Using PTFE seal tape on water threads

Wrap it on male threads for radiator valve tails, drain cocks, immersion bosses, shower fittings and threaded adaptors. It fills the gaps between threads so water cannot track through. It also lets the fitting turn smoothly as you tighten it. This tape is for water only, so use a proper gas grade tape on anything carrying gas.

Start with a clean, dry thread. Wind the tape on in the direction the fitting screws, otherwise it bunches and peels off as you tighten. Keep it under tension and overlap each turn by about half. Most threads need several wraps, but too much tape can crack a brass female fitting, so do not overdo it. Leave the first thread bare to keep loose bits out of the waterway. If a joint still weeps, strip it and start again rather than adding more on top. Thicker gas tape is listed in the gas and maintenance category.

Specification

• Material: PTFE
• Sizes: 12m long, 22mm wide, 0,075mm thick
• Suitable for: Threaded joints on water and heating, not gas

Common Questions

How many wraps of PTFE tape are needed?

Usually several turns, more on a coarse or worn thread, wound on tight in the direction the fitting tightens. Too much can split a brass female fitting.

Which way do you wrap PTFE tape?

Clockwise when looking at the end of the male thread, the same way the fitting screws on. Wrapped the other way, it peels off as you tighten.

Can PTFE tape be used on Compression olives?

Not normally. A Compression joint seals on the olive, and tape on the olive can stop it seating. Some fitters use a jointing paste made for olives instead.

Thread tape over the counter in Glasgow

Buy rolls over the Plumb Parts counter at 555 South Street, Glasgow G14 0QX. Times are Mon-Fri 8am-5pm and Sat-Sun 8am-1pm, or buy online.