Is it disastrous to use plumbers putty instead of silicone to seal a bathtub drain which uses
ABS pipes ? I've gotten conflicting advice with little explanation that sounds reasonable.

Thanks for your replies on this and for all your help in the past

Quote:

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Originally Posted by andycap

Is it disastrous to use plumbers putty instead of silicone to seal a bathtub drain which uses
ABS pipes ? I've gotten conflicting advice with little explanation that sounds reasonable.

Thanks for your replies on this and for all your help in the past

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No! We used Plumbers Putty for years with no problems. However, I think Silicone Jel is a bit more flexible then putty and if the tub flexes a bit when you step into it the Silicone will hold the seal better. Good luck, Tom.

Hi Andycap:

The answer with this one will differ between plumbers, but the fact is that either plumber's putty or silicone can be used in this case. There is no issue using plumber's putty and ABS piping materials.

I've always used plumber's putty for metal tub drains, lavatory pop-up assemblies, and kitchen sink strainers, but usually use a clear silicone for my shower strainers and plastic tubs.

Plumber's putty stains marble and granite so don't use on these surfaces. In these cases, such as when we install a new faucet on a granite countertop we use silicone.

If cast iron or steel tub you can use plumber's putty no issue. If fiberglass or acrylic tub opt for the silicone... ;)

Just saw that Tom and I posted at same time...similar answer there Andy...:) You decide!!

MARK

Finally, one word answer: PUTTY!

I usually use putty because it is not as messy as silicone. Both work.