Ptfe Jointing Tape 12Mm X 12M White

Ptfe Jointing Tape 12Mm X 12M White

PTFE Jointing Tape (Polytetrafluoroethylene), also widely known as "Plumber's Tape" or "Thread Seal Tape," is a fundamental consumable for any plumbing, heating, or gas installation. This 12mm x 12m white tape is designed to be wrapped around the male threads of pipes and fittings to create a watertight and airtight seal.

The tape acts as a deformable filler and lubricant, allowing the threads to be turned more deeply while preventing leaks by filling the microscopic gaps between the mating threads.

Key Features and Specifications

Dimensions: 12mm wide x 12m long (Standard domestic size).

Thickness: Typically 0.075mm (Standard Grade).

Material: 100% pure PTFE; chemically inert and non-toxic.

Temperature Range: Effective from -190°C to +260°C, making it suitable for both freezing cold water mains and high-temperature heating systems.

Pressure Rating: Capable of sealing joints in high-pressure water systems.

Versatility: Resistant to water, steam, oils, and most chemicals (excluding oxygen).

Cleanliness: Unlike liquid jointing compounds, PTFE is non-setting and leaves no mess on hands or tools.

Common Applications

Radiator Tails: Sealing the threaded tails into the radiator tapping before installing the valves.

Compression Fittings: Often wrapped around the olive or the thread to provide an extra layer of protection against minor leaks.

Threaded Pipework: Joining iron, brass, or plastic threaded pipes and fittings in domestic water systems.

Tap Tails: Ensuring a leak-free connection when installing new bathroom or kitchen taps.

Shower Arms: Providing a clean, secure seal for shower heads and arms where they enter the wall.

Installation Best Practices

Direction Matters: Always wrap the tape clockwise (the same direction the fitting will be tightened). This prevents the tape from unravelling or bunching up as you screw the parts together.

Coverage: Usually, 5 to 10 wraps are sufficient for a standard 1/2" or 3/4" BSP thread.

Tension: Keep the tape taut while wrapping to ensure it sits firmly into the grooves of the thread.

Note: Standard white PTFE is for water and air. For gas installations, you must use the thicker, yellow Gas-Rated PTFE Tape.

Essential Companion Products

Tooling: Adjustable Spanners or Water Pump Pliers.

Alternative for Gas: Yellow Gas PTFE Tape.

Liquid Alternative: Jointing Compound (e.g., Boss White or Jet Blue) for heavy-duty threaded joints.

Cleaning: Abrasive Cloth to clean threads before application.

Specialist Support and Local Collection

Running low on the basics? PTFE tape is the one item no toolbox should be without. We stock single rolls, trade packs of 10, and high-density professional versions for larger industrial threads.

Visit our trade counter at 61 Fullers Road, E18 2QB for immediate collection and to pick up all your essential installation consumables.