Have you gone through some research about the process of installing a shower head? Then you have most likely heard many people recommend to use Teflon tape. This type of tape is quite versatile. But the question is, do you need Teflon tape for shower head?
Frankly speaking, you must always use Teflon tape while installing a new shower head. Teflon tape is made out of sturdy materials and it is able to seal and tighten the shower head to the pipes to prevent any kind of leaks.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of using Teflon tape while installing new pipes or shower heads, the process of doing that, and some alternatives to Teflon tape.
When should you not use Teflon tape?
Teflon tape also known as PTFE tape works as a type of sealant that provides sufficient amount of lubrication while fitting faucets, shower heads etc. in your bathroom. It tightly holds the joints together and protects the fittings from leakage.
However, you have to be careful while using Teflon tape while working on your DIY projects. That’s because Teflon tape is not ideal for all types of pipes. If you’re trying to fit copper or PVC pipes, then you should avoid using Teflon tape.
Also, if you use too much tape in the fittings, then that can cause leaks.
How do you apply Teflon tape to a shower head?
If your old shower head is not able to provide a smooth flow of water, you should replace it immediately. But, don’t forget to follow the right process of replacing your shower head that involves the use of Teflon tape.
Here’s a quick rundown of the tools that you’ll need in order to go through this process:
- A brand new shower head
- Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Brush
- Teflon tape
Now, let’s have a look at the steps that you must follow:
Remove your old shower head
At first, you have to detach the old shower head that is connected to the gooseneck pipe on your bathroom’s wall. Before you get started, make sure to stop the water supply of the shower faucet.
Then take your screwdriver and remove all of the screws and bolts connected to the shower head. Sometimes the shower heads get stuck to the pipe due to rusting. In that case, you have to remove it with a wrench.
Apply the Teflon Tape on shower arm
Make sure the shower arm is clean and it does not have any old tape on it. If it’s dirty, then use some vinegar to clean it. Now, take a long strip of 0.5” Teflon tape and wrap it around the tip of the shower arm in the clockwise direction.
This creates an air-tight seal that prevents water from spilling out the shower head. There is a debate concerning yellow Teflon tape vs white tape. Hence, you should always use white Teflon tape while installing bathroom appliances.
Install the new shower head
Once you’ve wrapped the tape around the shower arm, attach the new shower head on it and screw it in the clockwise direction. Keep rotating the shower head until it’s tightly connected to the shower arm.
What can I use instead of Teflon tape on my shower head?
If you don’t have Teflon tape in your house, there is no need to worry. There are a few great alternatives to Teflon tape that you can use on your shower head. Let’s have a look at them:
Electric Tape
Electric tape is actually quite effective creating a water-tight seal. All you have to do is wrap the electric tape two or three times around the shower arm. However, don’t use too much tape as that will make it hard for you to install the shower head.
Dental Floss
Dental floss has the same kind of physical properties as Teflon tape. So, if you don’t have any Teflon tape, you can wrap your dental floss on shower arm to avoid leaks.
Toothpaste
You can apply some toothpaste on the shower arm during the installation to fill the gaps inside the shower head. However, this is not a permanent solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of tape do you use for shower heads?
You can use Teflon tape (plumber’s tape), or masking tape on your shower head. Alternatively, you can use regular electric tape as well.
Is Teflon tape a sealant or lubricant?
Technically, Teflon tape is a type of lubricant that helps you easily connect different parts of a piping system. However, since it creates a tight seal inside those connections, you can also call it a sealant.
What is Teflon tape used for?
Teflon tape is primarily used to seal air, water or gas in the threaded connections of a piping system. You can use this type of tape while installing various kinds of appliances in your kitchen or bathroom.
Do you need Teflon tape for shower head?
Yes, Teflon tape is an essential part of the shower head installation process.
Is thread seal tape the same as Teflon tape?
Yes, thread seal tape and Teflon tape are the same. They are widely used in plumbing.
How tight should threaded pipe be?
As a general rule, you should tighten the tape on a threaded pipe 2-3 times before installation.
Final Thoughts
After all that discussion, it should be clear to you why it is essential for you to use Teflon tape on your shower head during installation.
Please follow our step-by-step guide while using Teflon tape. If you follow the process correctly, you won’t have to deal with any leakage ever again.
Hopefully, you’ve found this article interesting. Thanks for reading.
Also read – How To Stop Shower Head Drooping Down?
