Plumbers Putty & Sealants

About Plumbers Putty & Sealants

Plumbers putty and sealants are essential waterproofing materials used to create leak-proof seals around pipes, drains, taps, and sanitary fittings. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional-grade plumbers putty designed to remain flexible and watertight even under constant exposure to moisture. These versatile compounds provide reliable sealing solutions for both emergency repairs and new installations, making them indispensable in any plumber's toolkit.

Unlike silicone sealants that cure hard, traditional plumbers putty stays pliable, allowing for future adjustments and preventing cracking over time. Available from trusted brands like EvoStik, including products such as Evo-stik Plumbers Mait, these compounds offer excellent adhesion to metals, ceramics, and plastic surfaces commonly found in domestic and commercial plumbing systems.

Applications

Plumbers putty and sealants are widely used across various trades and applications:

• Professional plumbers for sealing sink drains, bath wastes, and tap bases
• Bathroom fitters installing basins, bidets, and shower trays
• Kitchen installers fitting sinks and waste disposal units
• Maintenance engineers performing leak repairs in commercial properties
• DIY enthusiasts tackling home plumbing projects and renovations
• Sealing around pop-up waste assemblies and plug mechanisms
• Creating watertight seals for outdoor taps and garden plumbing
• Emergency leak repairs before permanent solutions can be applied

Choosing The Right Plumbers Putty & Sealants

When selecting plumbers putty and sealants from MyToolShed.co.uk, consider these important factors:

• Material compatibility: Ensure the putty is suitable for your specific surfaces—some formulations may stain natural stone or react with certain plastics
• Application type: Traditional putty works best for non-permanent seals where future access is needed, whilst sealants suit permanent installations
• Water resistance: Choose products specifically formulated for constant water exposure in high-moisture environments
• Setting time: Consider whether you need a product that stays permanently pliable or one that forms a more rigid seal
• Temperature resistance: For hot water applications, verify the product can withstand elevated temperatures without degrading
• Food safety: For kitchen applications involving drinking water, select products certified for potable water contact

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between plumbers putty and silicone sealant?

Plumbers putty remains flexible and pliable indefinitely, making it ideal for seals that may need adjustment or removal. Silicone sealant cures into a permanent, rubber-like seal. Putty is typically used for drain assemblies and fixtures, whilst silicone is better for permanent waterproof joints between surfaces.

How long does plumbers putty last?

Quality plumbers putty like those available at MyToolShed.co.uk can last many years when properly applied. Because it doesn't harden or cure, it maintains its sealing properties indefinitely under normal conditions. However, it should be checked periodically and replaced if it becomes dried out or loses adhesion.

Can plumbers putty be used on plastic fittings?

Most modern plumbers putty formulations are safe for plastic, but always check the manufacturer's specifications. Some older petroleum-based putties can degrade certain plastics over time. For plastic waste fittings, many plumbers prefer rubber washers or silicone-based alternatives designed specifically for plastic components.