Push-fit connectors have bailed me out more times than I care to admit. I keep a couple in my toolbox now just in case—never know when a tenant’s going to call about a “drip” that’s actually Niagara Falls under the bathroom sink.
Pipe tape, though... mixed bag for me. On metal threads, it’s usually fine, but on PVC or plastic? I’ve had it bunch up or just not seal right, especially if the threads aren’t super clean. One time I tried to use it on an old washing machine valve and ended up making things worse—water everywhere and a trip to the hardware store at 9pm.
Haven’t really trusted those silicone tapes either. They look handy in theory but I’m not convinced they’d last more than a few months, especially if there’s any pressure on the line. Honestly, if it’s more than a tiny drip, I just swap out the fitting or use push-fit and call it done. Less stress in the long run.
Push-fit connectors are a lifesaver, no doubt. I’ve had my fair share of “surprise waterfalls” too—usually right before guests arrive. Pipe tape’s always been hit or miss for me as well. On brass or copper, it’s decent, but plastic threads? I end up chasing leaks half the time. I’ve tried those silicone tapes in a pinch, but honestly, they feel more like a temporary band-aid than a real fix. If I can swap out the part or use a push-fit, I’ll do that every time. Less waste, less hassle, and way less water on the floor.
Pipe tape’s always been a mixed bag for me too, especially on plastic threads. I’ve seen more than a few “quick fixes” turn into bigger headaches when the tape bunches up or doesn’t seal right. Had a rental once where someone tried to layer on pipe tape like it was duct tape—ended up with a slow leak that rotted the cabinet floor. Push-fits are way more reliable in a pinch, but I still double-check everything for drips before calling it done. Water damage sneaks up fast if you’re not careful.
I’ve had mixed luck with pipe tape too, especially on those cheap plastic fittings under sinks. Once tried to “fix” a leaky P-trap with a few extra wraps—ended up making it worse because the threads wouldn’t seat right. Now I just use it sparingly and only on metal-to-metal connections if I can help it. Push-fits have saved me more than once, but I still keep a towel handy just in case... water finds a way.
I hear you on the pipe tape—tried to stop a drip on a plastic fitting once, and it just made the whole thing cross-threaded. Honestly, I think Teflon tape is overused, especially since it’s not meant for plastic threads at all. Those are designed to seal themselves, and extra tape just messes with the fit. Push-fits are a lifesaver, but I always go for the ones rated for reusability to cut down on waste. Less landfill, less hassle. Water will always find the tiniest gap, though... Murphy’s Law of plumbing, right?
