Teflon® tape is a specialized type of tape used in plumbing to seal
connections throughly, ensuring that pipes will not leak. This tape
is also referred to as poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) tape. It is
available at most hardware and home supply stores, usually in the
plumbing section, and it is a standard part of the toolkit of
people who do any sort of plumbing work.
PTFE is a very interesting substance. From a plumbing point of
view, it's important to note that it is very flexible and that it
has immense tensile strength. When Teflon® tape is used to wrap the
threads of a pipe, the tape acts almost like putty, filling the
space and preventing leakage. While it is possible to use plumbing
putty for tasks like this, Teflon® tape is quicker and easier, and
often much neater, as well.
