The Essential Guide to Drainage Sealants for Plumbers

Drainage sealants are an essential component in the toolkit of any plumber or DIY enthusiast dealing with leaky pipes, sinks, and drains. These sealants are designed to provide a waterproof barrier that prevents water from seeping through joints, connections, and small cracks where components like pipes and drains come together. The importance of a reliable sealant cannot be overstated, as water leaks can lead to significant damage over time, including mould, rot, and structural damage to buildings.

Sink drain sealants are a specific type of drainage sealant used to ensure a watertight connection between the sink and the drainpipe. These sealants are typically applied during the installation of a sink or when leaks are detected around the sink drain. The kitchen and bathroom sinks are the most common areas where these sealants are applied, given their frequent exposure to water. A good sink drain sealant must be resistant to the effects of detergents, hot water, and food waste, which it will inevitably come into contact with.

Some of our top drainage and sink drain sealant picks include…

CM Bath & Kitchen HM

A versatile sealant suitable for use in sanitary projects including bathrooms and kitchens. CM offer a high modulus silicone with a range of colour options, increasing its popularity in the bathroom sealants market.

Everbuild Showerproof Sealant 

Exactly as described, Everbuild offer one of the most popular shower sealants on the market. Many of our trades customers have this in their kit as it provides reliability for their bathroom installation projects.

Rainbow RAL Coloured Silicone 

A very popular choice amongst trades people, Rainbow RAL coloured silicone provide practical and aesthetic solutions for bathroom projects. Offering a range of colour choices and providing a reliable seal, many of our customers opt to include this sealant in their tool kit.

Application of sink drain sealants

The application of sink drain sealants is a straightforward process.

First, the area around the drain must be cleaned thoroughly to ensure that the sealant adheres properly. Once the surface is dry, the sealant is applied around the drain flange before it is inserted into the drain hole in the sink. Excess sealant is wiped away, and the sealant is left to cure as per the manufacturer’s instructions. The curing time can vary, but it is crucial to wait until the sealant is fully set before using the sink to prevent any leaks.

Drainage sealants for plumbers

For plumbers, a broader range of sealants is available, each designed for different types of jobs. Plumbers often use thread sealants, which are applied to the threads of pipes before they are connected to ensure a leak-proof seal. These sealants can be in the form of a paste or tape, with the tape variety being known as plumber’s tape or thread seal tape. These sealants must be resistant to the pressure and temperature variations that plumbing systems are subjected to.

Another type of sealant used by plumbers is joint sealant, which is used to seal the joints between different sections of piping. This sealant needs to be flexible enough to accommodate the slight movements between pipes but also durable enough to maintain a seal over time. Joint sealants are often made from silicone or other flexible, waterproof materials.

When selecting a drainage sealant, whether for a sink drain or other plumbing applications, it is important to consider the specific requirements of the job. Factors such as the type of material the pipes are made from, the temperature and pressure they will be subjected to, and the presence of any chemicals or corrosive substances must all be taken into account. Additionally, the environmental conditions, such as whether the sealant will be used indoors or outdoors, can influence the choice of sealant.

Order drainage sealants online with Sealant Supplies!

Drainage sealants play a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of plumbing systems. Sink drain sealants ensure that our daily use of sinks does not lead to water damage, while the variety of sealants available to plumbers allows them to tackle any number of challenges presented by different plumbing scenarios. The correct application and choice of sealant are critical to preventing leaks and ensuring the longevity of plumbing installations. As such, whether for professional or personal use, understanding and utilizing the right drainage sealants is key to successful plumbing maintenance and repair.

If you would like to speak to our team about drainage sealants or the best sealants for your plumbing kit – do not hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team! All of our sealants can be found via our website – or for more information simply call 01708 525 866 or email info@sealantsupplies.co.uk and we will be in touch as soon as possible.