When installing or replacing a sink faucet, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: Do I need plumber’s putty? The answer depends on the type of faucet, the sink material, and the sealing method recommended by the manufacturer. Plumber’s putty has been a go-to product for decades, but in some cases, other sealing materials are better options.
What is Plumber’s Putty?
Plumber’s putty is a soft, pliable sealant used by plumbers to create watertight seals around faucets, drains, and other fixtures. It doesn’t harden completely, making it easy to work with and remove later if repairs or replacements are needed.
Advantages of Plumber’s Putty
- Easy to shape and apply by hand.
- Remains flexible and doesn’t crack over time.
- Prevents water from leaking under fixtures.
- Inexpensive and widely available.
Limitations of Plumber’s Putty
- Not suitable for plastic or porous stone surfaces (it may cause staining).
- Not an adhesive—it seals but does not hold fixtures in place.
- Can dry out if exposed directly to air, losing effectiveness.
Do Faucets Require Plumber’s Putty?
Whether you need plumber’s putty for a faucet installation depends on the design of the faucet and the sink material:
- Most Modern Faucets: Many come with a rubber or plastic gasket that replaces the need for plumber’s putty. The gasket provides a watertight seal when tightened.
- Older Faucets: These may not have built-in gaskets and could benefit from plumber’s putty to prevent leaks.
- Metal or Porcelain Sinks: Safe to use plumber’s putty as it won’t stain these surfaces.
- Granite, Marble, or Quartz Sinks: Avoid plumber’s putty—it can cause staining. Use a non-staining plumber’s putty alternative or silicone caulk instead.
When to Use Plumber’s Putty for a Faucet
Here are scenarios where plumber’s putty is recommended:
- If your faucet does not include a gasket or seal.
- If you want extra leak protection between the faucet base and sink.
- When installing on a stainless steel or porcelain sink surface.
- When the manufacturer specifically recommends it in the installation instructions.
When Not to Use Plumber’s Putty
Skip plumber’s putty if:
- Your faucet already includes a rubber or foam gasket designed to seal the base.
- You’re installing into natural stone or composite surfaces (risk of staining).
- You prefer a longer-lasting adhesive seal (in which case silicone caulk is a better choice).
Alternatives to Plumber’s Putty
If plumber’s putty isn’t suitable, consider these alternatives:
- Silicone Caulk: Provides a watertight, durable seal. Works well on all surfaces, including natural stone.
- Gaskets and Rubber Seals: Many modern faucets come with these included. They’re easy to install and often eliminate the need for putty or caulk.
- Non-Staining Putty: Special formulations are safe for use on granite, marble, and quartz surfaces.
Step-by-Step: Using Plumber’s Putty for a Faucet
- Turn off the water supply and clean the sink surface.
- Roll a small amount of putty into a rope shape between your hands.
- Place the rope around the base of the faucet where it will contact the sink.
- Press the faucet down firmly and tighten mounting nuts from below.
- Wipe away any excess putty that squeezes out.
Cost Considerations
Using plumber’s putty is inexpensive, but the choice between putty, silicone, or gaskets can affect the total cost of installation:
- Plumber’s Putty: ₦1,500–₦5,000 in Nigeria ($3–$8 in the US).
- Silicone Caulk: ₦2,000–₦7,000 ($5–$10 in the US).
- Non-Staining Putty: ₦3,000–₦10,000 ($6–$15 in the US).
- Professional installation: ₦10,000–₦25,000 locally ($100–$200 internationally).
FAQs
1. Can I use silicone instead of plumber’s putty?
Yes. Silicone is often preferred for stone sinks or when a more permanent seal is desired.
2. Does every faucet need sealing putty?
No. Many faucets include gaskets or rubber seals that make plumber’s putty unnecessary.
3. Will plumber’s putty harden over time?
No. It stays flexible, which is why it’s easy to remove during future repairs.
4. Can plumber’s putty stop a leak under the sink?
No. Plumber’s putty is for sealing fixture bases, not repairing leaking pipes or fittings.
5. Which is better—plumber’s putty or silicone?
Both work, but silicone is better for stone surfaces and longer-lasting seals, while putty is easier to apply and remove.
Conclusion
You don’t always need plumber’s putty for a sink faucet. Many modern faucets include gaskets or seals that do the job without additional materials. However, plumber’s putty is still useful for older faucets or when you want extra protection against leaks. If you’re working with granite, marble, or quartz, use silicone or non-staining alternatives instead. Always check the manufacturer’s installation instructions—choosing the right sealant ensures your faucet stays watertight and trouble-free.