[Jubert]

How do I seal around my shower drain what's the best product to use.

[massplumber2008]

Hi Jubert:

Really, depends on the shower drain and the type of pipe in question.

If pvc pipe and new no-calk drain then drain should have come with a neoprene ring that sets down into drain.

If copper pipe may be best to pour a LEAD JOINT...

If existing drain that is leaking all of a sudden then you may need to remove the old drain seal and install a new drain seal...if possible.

If existing drain that is leaking and you hope to seal the old joint... then you could try some silicone AFTER you are sure the drain is dry for say 5 days or so, but even then, patch would only be temporary... ;)

Let us know the type of pipe, the type of shower floor... how old, etc. More details the better here.

MARK

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[PhyllisPes]

Drain pipe is copper (35 years old)
Type of shower floor is ceramic tile

What should use to seal around drain?

[massplumber2008]

Hi Phyllispes...

You should really start your own question at the plumbing page, but since I found you here at an old post from 2008 I'll offer up some ideas, OK?

With what you have presented above, a plumber would use oakum for a packing material and then he/she would pour a liquid lead joint, let that cool and then pack the lead using leading/packing tools.

For a homeowner, you would probably be best to get some oakum (available in bags at all home improvement stores) and a lead substitute (comes in a can). You would pack the oakum tight to within about 2" of the top of the pipe and then fill the remaining space using a putty knife with the lead substitute. Let it dry as on the package and you would be all set... no need to pack like when you use lead (see images below).

Now, tell me more about why you are asking the question. Are you trying to do a repair or is this a new install?

Let me know more...

Mark