Faucet Sealant Explained: Technical Standards, Properties, and Practical Applications

Types of Faucet Sealant

A faucet sealant is a crucial material used in plumbing to prevent leaks, ensure watertight connections, and protect fixtures from water damage. With a wide variety of sealants available—each designed for specific applications, pressure levels, and environmental conditions—it's essential to understand their differences to make an informed choice. Selecting the right sealant enhances durability, prevents water waste, and extends the lifespan of your plumbing system.

Teflon Tape (Plumber's Tape)

A thin, PTFE-based tape used primarily for sealing threaded pipe joints in plumbing systems.

Advantages

• Excellent resistance to heat and chemicals
• Creates a smooth, leak-proof seal on threaded connections
• Easy to apply and remove
• Ideal for both metal and plastic threaded joints
• Inexpensive and widely available

Limitations

• Not suitable for pressurized gas lines (unless rated)
• Can tear if overwrapped or improperly applied
• Limited use in non-threaded or flat surface applications

Best for: Threaded water supply lines, sink and shower faucets, low to moderate pressure systems

Silicone Sealant

A flexible, rubber-like adhesive that cures to form a waterproof, durable bond around faucets and fixtures.

Advantages

• Superior water and moisture resistance
• Mold and mildew resistant (especially in bathroom-grade formulas)
• Remains flexible after curing, accommodating movement and thermal expansion
• Bonds well with porcelain, glass, metal, and ceramic
• Available in multiple colors for aesthetic matching

Limitations

• Takes time to cure (typically 24 hours)
• Difficult to remove once cured
• Not suitable for internal pipe threading

Best for: Sealing around faucet bases, sinks, showers, and tubs; high-moisture environments

Plumber's Putty

A soft, non-hardening compound used to create watertight seals under faucet flanges and drain components.

Advantages

• Remains pliable indefinitely, allowing for minor adjustments
• Easy to shape and apply without tools
• Effective for creating seals in low-pressure, static water environments
• Inexpensive and reusable if not contaminated

Limitations

• Not suitable for pressurized systems
• Can dry out or degrade when exposed to petroleum-based products
• Not recommended for use with porous materials like marble or granite (can stain)

Best for: Sink strainers, pop-up drains, and faucet base seals where water is not under constant pressure

Thread Sealant Adhesive (Pipe Dope)

A liquid or paste compound applied to threaded pipe connections to enhance sealing and prevent corrosion.

Advantages

• Forms a strong, permanent seal on metal and plastic threads
• Resists high pressure and temperature fluctuations
• Helps prevent galling and seizing of metal threads
• Some formulas are gas-rated for natural gas or propane lines
• Excellent for industrial and commercial plumbing applications

Limitations

• Can be messy to apply
• May require curing time
• Not reusable—once applied, disassembly may require cleaning
• Over-application can lead to sealant entering the pipe and restricting flow

Best for: High-pressure water lines, gas connections, industrial plumbing, and permanent installations

Type	Best Use Case	Water Resistance	Pressure Suitability	Durability
Teflon Tape	Threaded pipe joints	Excellent	Moderate	Good (replaceable)
Silicone Sealant	Fixture perimeters, wet areas	Excellent	Low (static water)	Very Good
Plumber's Putty	Drains, sink seals	Good	Low	Fair (non-hardening)
Thread Sealant Adhesive	High-pressure, gas, industrial	Excellent	High	Excellent

Expert Tip: For maximum reliability in faucet installations, consider combining Teflon tape on threaded supply lines with a bead of silicone sealant around the base of the faucet. This dual approach ensures both internal and external leak protection.

Choosing the right faucet sealant depends on the application, pressure requirements, environmental conditions, and materials involved. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each type—Teflon tape, silicone, plumber’s putty, and thread sealant adhesive—ensures a long-lasting, leak-free plumbing system. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and local plumbing codes for optimal results.

Essential Features of Faucet Sealant: Performance, Durability & Application

Faucet sealants play a crucial role in ensuring leak-free plumbing systems by creating airtight and watertight seals between fixtures and surfaces. These specialized compounds are engineered to withstand constant exposure to moisture, temperature variations, and mechanical stress. Understanding the key features of faucet sealants—such as water resistance, temperature tolerance, ease of application, and durability—empowers homeowners and professionals to make informed decisions for long-lasting, efficient installations.

Water Resistance: Preventing Leaks and Water Damage

Water resistance is a fundamental characteristic of any high-quality faucet caulk or sealant. Since faucets are continuously exposed to moisture, the sealant must form a reliable barrier that prevents water infiltration behind fixtures. Without proper sealing, moisture can seep into surrounding materials—such as drywall, cabinetry, or subflooring—leading to mold growth, wood rot, and structural deterioration over time.

Silicone-based sealants are among the most effective options for wet environments like kitchens, bathrooms, and utility sinks. They cure to form a flexible, waterproof membrane that adheres strongly to ceramic, metal, glass, and plastic surfaces. Some formulations even include mildewcides to resist fungal growth in high-humidity areas, further enhancing their protective capabilities.

Temperature Tolerance: Withstanding Heat and Cold Extremes

A superior faucet sealant must maintain its integrity across a broad temperature spectrum. This is especially critical for outdoor faucets, under-sink installations near hot water lines, and regions with seasonal climate shifts. Extreme temperatures can cause many standard adhesives to expand, contract, crack, or harden prematurely—compromising the seal.

High-performance sealants are formulated with thermally stable polymers that remain pliable in both freezing and scorching conditions. For instance, silicone and hybrid polymer (silane-terminated polymer) sealants typically perform well from -40°F to over 300°F (-40°C to 150°C), making them ideal for use in diverse plumbing applications. This thermal resilience ensures consistent sealing performance regardless of environmental fluctuations.

Ease of Application: User-Friendly Solutions for DIY and Professionals

Modern faucet sealants are designed with usability in mind, catering to both novice DIYers and experienced plumbers. Most are available in convenient formats such as pre-filled squeeze tubes, cartridge-based systems for caulking guns, or even tape and putty forms for specific joints.

Teflon tape (PTFE tape) is widely used for threaded pipe connections due to its simplicity and effectiveness in preventing leaks on faucet supply lines. Plumber’s putty offers a moldable, non-hardening option for sealing sink strainers and pop-up drains. Meanwhile, liquid silicone sealants provide precision control when sealing around baseplates and edges. Proper application technique—including surface cleaning, even bead distribution, and smoothing—ensures optimal adhesion and appearance.

Durability: Long-Term Protection and Reduced Maintenance

Durability is a defining trait of an ideal sealant for faucet installation. A long-lasting sealant resists degradation from continuous water flow, UV exposure (in outdoor settings), chemical cleaners, and physical vibrations caused by water pressure changes. Durable sealants minimize the need for frequent reapplication, reducing maintenance costs and potential water waste.

Advanced formulations often include additives that enhance elasticity, adhesion strength, and resistance to aging. For example, high-grade silicone and urethane sealants can last 10–20 years under normal conditions, far outperforming basic acrylics. Choosing a durable sealant not only extends the lifespan of the plumbing fixture but also protects surrounding materials from water-related damage.

Feature	Why It Matters	Recommended Sealant Types
Water Resistance	Prevents leaks, mold, and structural water damage in wet areas	Silicone, Hybrid Polymer, Epoxy
Temperature Tolerance	Maintains seal integrity in hot/cold environments	Silicone, Urethane, PTFE Tape
Ease of Application	Enables clean, accurate sealing with minimal tools or experience	Silicone (cartridge), Teflon Tape, Plumber’s Putty
Durability	Reduces maintenance frequency and prolongs fixture life	High-Performance Silicone, Hybrid Sealants

Best Practices for Optimal Sealant Performance

Clean Surfaces Thoroughly: Remove old sealant, grease, dirt, and moisture before applying new caulk. Use isopropyl alcohol or a dedicated primer for better adhesion.

Choose the Right Type: Match the sealant to the application—silicone for wet areas, Teflon tape for threads, putty for drain seals.

Apply in a Continuous Bead: Use steady pressure to dispense an even line of sealant without gaps or bubbles.

Smooth Immediately: Tool the bead with a damp finger or plastic tool for a professional finish and improved sealing contact.

Allow Proper Cure Time: Follow manufacturer instructions for drying and curing times before exposing the sealant to water or stress.

Important: Always verify compatibility between the sealant and the materials being joined (e.g., metal, plastic, ceramic). Using the wrong type of sealant can lead to poor adhesion, chemical reactions, or premature failure. Additionally, avoid using plumber’s putty on porous surfaces like marble or granite, as it may stain. When in doubt, consult product datasheets or a plumbing professional.

Uses of Faucet Sealant: A Comprehensive Guide

Faucet sealant is an essential component in both residential and commercial plumbing systems. Its primary role is to create watertight, durable seals that prevent leaks, enhance fixture stability, and protect against environmental damage. Understanding the full range of applications for faucet sealant enables plumbers, DIYers, and homeowners to make informed decisions when installing or maintaining plumbing fixtures.

Preventing Leaks

Leak prevention is the most critical and widely recognized function of faucet sealant. Plumbing connections—especially threaded joints—are constantly under water pressure, which can cause micro-gaps to expand over time. A high-quality sealant fills these microscopic voids between faucet threads and pipe fittings, creating a continuous barrier that stops water from escaping.

• Reduces water wastage and helps conserve resources
• Prevents moisture damage to cabinets, walls, and flooring
• Maintains consistent water pressure by eliminating seepage at connection points
• Extends the lifespan of plumbing components by minimizing corrosion caused by moisture buildup

Key benefit: Proper sealing ensures long-term system integrity and reduces the risk of costly water damage.

Sealing Joints and Connections

Faucet sealants play a vital role in securing threaded metal joints in plumbing systems. These connections—such as those between supply lines, valves, and faucet stems—are prone to small leaks due to imperfect thread alignment or metal expansion/contraction with temperature changes.

• Forms a flexible, resilient bond that accommodates minor movement without cracking
• Enhances the tightness of threaded connections beyond what tape or compression fittings alone can achieve
• Prevents cross-threading issues and improves torque efficiency during installation
• Reduces the need for re-tightening joints after initial use

Pro insight: Anaerobic pipe sealants cure in the absence of air, making them ideal for enclosed metal-to-metal joints.

Installation of Fixtures

During the installation of sinks, faucets, showers, and toilets, sealant acts as both a waterproofing agent and a stabilizing layer. Applying a thin, even bead of plumber’s putty or silicone sealant between the fixture base and the mounting surface (e.g., countertop or wall) creates a secure, watertight seal.

• Prevents water from penetrating beneath fixtures, which can lead to mold, rot, or structural damage
• Dampens vibrations and reduces fixture movement during daily use
• Compensates for minor surface irregularities that could compromise a tight fit
• Supports even weight distribution, reducing stress on mounting hardware

Best practice: Use non-hardening putty for sink drains and flexible silicone for shower surrounds to allow for slight expansion.

Repairing Existing Leaks

In cases of minor leakage—such as around a faucet base, handle, or spout—a faucet sealant coating can serve as an effective temporary fix. While not a substitute for replacing worn washers, cartridges, or O-rings, sealant can bridge small gaps caused by wear or misalignment.

• Provides immediate relief from dripping or seepage
• Allows continued use of the fixture until permanent repairs can be scheduled
• Helps identify the source of a leak by isolating problem areas
• Can extend the life of older fixtures in low-pressure applications

Important note: This is a short-term solution; underlying mechanical issues should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.

In Outdoor Installations

Outdoor faucets and hose bibs are exposed to harsh environmental conditions, including rain, snow, UV radiation, and extreme temperature fluctuations. Specialized faucet sealants—particularly those based on silicone or hybrid polymers—offer superior resistance to these elements.

• Resists UV degradation, preventing brittleness and cracking over time
• Remains flexible in freezing temperatures, avoiding shrinkage or separation
• Repels moisture and prevents rust formation on metal components
• Withstands thermal cycling without losing adhesion or integrity

Recommended: Use weatherproof, mold-resistant silicone sealants rated for exterior use in outdoor plumbing applications.

Material Compatibility & Selection

Choosing the right type of sealant based on the materials involved is crucial for long-term performance. Not all sealants work equally well with metals, plastics, ceramics, or stone surfaces.

• Silicone-based: Ideal for glass, ceramic, and metal; excellent waterproofing and flexibility
• Plumber’s putty: Best for sink strainers and pop-up drains; non-toxic and easy to shape
• Teflon tape (thread seal tape): Used on male pipe threads; great for temporary or low-pressure seals
• Anaerobic sealants: Cure only in oxygen-free environments; perfect for metal pipe joints

Expert tip: Always verify chemical compatibility to avoid damaging sensitive surfaces like marble or acrylic.

Professional Recommendation: For optimal results, combine mechanical fastening with appropriate sealant application. For example, tighten mounting nuts securely before applying a finishing bead of silicone around a faucet base. This dual approach ensures both structural stability and complete water resistance. Additionally, allow adequate curing time (typically 12–24 hours) before exposing the sealant to water for maximum durability.

Application	Recommended Sealant Type	Key Properties	Drying/Curing Time
Indoor faucet base sealing	Silicone sealant	Waterproof, flexible, mold-resistant	24 hours (full cure)
Threaded pipe joints	Teflon tape or anaerobic sealant	Pressure-resistant, non-corrosive	Instant (tape), 24 hours (anaerobic)
Sink drain installation	Plumber’s putty	Non-hardening, malleable, non-toxic	Does not cure
Outdoor spigots and hose connections	Weatherproof silicone	UV-resistant, freeze-thaw stable	12–24 hours

Additional Considerations

• Cleanliness is critical: Surfaces must be dry, clean, and free of grease or old sealant residue for proper adhesion
• Ventilation: Apply sealants in well-ventilated areas, especially solvent-based or acetic-cure silicones that emit fumes
• Code compliance: In commercial or municipal installations, ensure sealants meet local plumbing codes and NSF/ANSI standards
• Aesthetics: Clear or color-matched sealants provide a clean, professional finish, particularly visible in white or chrome fixtures
• Eco-friendly options: Low-VOC and biodegradable sealants are available for environmentally conscious projects

In summary, faucet sealants are versatile, indispensable tools in modern plumbing. From preventing leaks and securing joints to enabling temporary repairs and protecting outdoor fixtures, their applications are wide-ranging and essential. When selected and applied correctly, these sealants significantly improve the reliability, efficiency, and longevity of plumbing systems, ensuring safe and leak-free operation for years to come.

How to Choose the Right Faucet Sealant: A Complete Guide

Selecting the appropriate faucet sealant is essential for ensuring a watertight, durable, and long-lasting plumbing installation. The wrong choice can lead to leaks, fixture damage, or premature deterioration. This comprehensive guide walks you through the key factors to consider when choosing a faucet sealant—covering material compatibility, application type, environmental conditions, and system performance requirements. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional plumber, understanding these elements will help you make an informed decision for optimal results.

Important Note: Always turn off the water supply and relieve pressure in the lines before beginning any plumbing work. Work in a well-ventilated area when using chemical-based sealants, and follow manufacturer instructions for safe handling and curing times.

1. Compatibility with Fixtures and Materials

The success of any sealant application begins with material compatibility. Different sealants interact uniquely with various plumbing materials, and using an incompatible product can cause corrosion, staining, or seal failure.

• Silicone Sealants: Ideal for sealing around faucets mounted on sinks made of stainless steel, chrome, plastic, ceramic, or composite materials. Offers excellent adhesion and flexibility. Use 100% silicone for best results—avoid silicone with added mold inhibitors if bonding to certain plastics.
• Plumber’s Putty: A traditional, non-hardening compound best suited for sealing under-mount faucets and drains on porous materials like stone, granite, or ceramic. Not recommended for plastic or acrylic fixtures, as it may cause swelling or discoloration over time.
• Epoxy-Based Sealants: Provide a permanent, rigid seal and are often used in commercial applications or where vibration resistance is needed. Suitable for metal-to-metal joints but not ideal for areas requiring flexibility.
• Thread Sealant Tapes (Teflon Tape) and Pipe Dope: Used specifically for threaded connections (e.g., faucet tailpieces). Choose yellow tape for water lines and pink for potable water to ensure safety and code compliance.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, perform a small patch test on a hidden area of the fixture to check for adverse reactions before full application.

2. Type of Application and Ease of Use

The nature of your project—whether it's a quick repair, new faucet installation, or professional-grade plumbing work—will influence your sealant choice based on ease of application, cleanup, and reusability.

• Plumber’s Putty: Extremely user-friendly for beginners. It’s moldable, requires no curing time, and allows for adjustments during installation. However, it can dry out over time and is not suitable for pressurized joints.
• Silicone Caulk: Requires a caulk gun and careful application. Once cured (typically 24 hours), it forms a permanent, flexible seal. Cleanup must be done with mineral spirits before curing; afterward, removal requires cutting.
• Thread Sealant Adhesives (Pipe Dope): Applied with a brush or applicator to threaded fittings. Provides a strong, pressure-resistant seal but can be messy. Some formulations are anaerobic, meaning they cure only in the absence of air, making them ideal for tight joints.
• Teflon Tape: Simple to apply—just wrap 2–3 layers clockwise around male threads. Best for small-diameter connections and temporary fixes. Not a substitute for proper sealing in large or high-pressure systems.

3. Environmental Conditions and Exposure

The environment where the faucet is installed plays a major role in determining the best sealant. Moisture, temperature fluctuations, UV exposure, and chemical contact can degrade inferior products.

• Indoor Kitchens & Bathrooms: High humidity and frequent steam exposure demand a mold- and mildew-resistant silicone caulk. Look for labels indicating “kitchen & bath” or “mold-resistant” formulations.
• Outdoor Faucets (Hose Bibs, Spigots): Subject to rain, freezing temperatures, and UV rays. Use weatherproof silicone sealants rated for exterior use. These maintain elasticity across temperature extremes and resist cracking or shrinking.
• Under-Sink Areas: Prone to condensation and limited airflow. Avoid standard putty here if moisture accumulation is expected—opt for waterproof silicone instead.

4. Pressure and Temperature Requirements

Plumbing systems operate under varying pressures and temperatures. Choosing a sealant that matches these conditions ensures long-term reliability and prevents system failure.

• Residential Systems (Standard Pressure): Most household faucets operate at 40–80 psi. Silicone sealants and plumber’s putty are sufficient for sealing base gaskets and non-pressurized joints.
• High-Pressure or Commercial Systems: Require stronger solutions like thread sealant adhesives (pipe dope) or PTFE-based tapes designed for high-pressure applications. These prevent joint loosening and leakage under stress.
• Hot Water Applications: Standard putty may degrade under continuous hot water exposure. Use high-temperature silicone rated up to 300°F (150°C) for faucets connected to hot water lines.

Sealant Type	Best For	Limits & Warnings	Recommended Brands/Types
Silicone Caulk	Faucet base seals, kitchen/bath fixtures, outdoor spigots	Avoid ammonia-based cleaners; not reusable once cured	DAP Kitchen & Bath, GE Silicone II, Loctite PL S30
Plumber’s Putty	Drain assemblies, under-mount sinks, non-pressurized joints	Not for plastic fixtures or pressurized systems	Oatey, Hercules, Speedi-Drain
Teflon Tape (PTFE)	Threaded pipe connections, faucet tailpieces	Not for large gaps; use pink tape for drinking water	York, Gasoila, Oatey Ultra
Thread Sealant (Pipe Dope)	High-pressure joints, commercial plumbing, metal threads	Can harden over time; difficult to disassemble	Rectorseal T Plus 2, Gasoila #5, Oatey Heavy Duty
Epoxy Sealants	Permanent repairs, metal-to-metal bonding	Inflexible; not suitable for vibrating fixtures	J-B Weld, Devcon Plastic Steel

Expert Tip: For maximum durability, combine sealant types when appropriate—e.g., use plumber’s putty under the faucet base and silicone around the perimeter for added water resistance. Always allow proper curing time before restoring water flow.

Final Recommendations for Long-Term Performance

• Always read product labels to confirm suitability for potable water, temperature range, and fixture material compatibility.
• Store unused sealants in a cool, dry place with tightly sealed caps to extend shelf life.
• Replace old or cracked sealants during faucet maintenance—even if no leak is visible.
• For critical or hard-to-access installations, consider using a high-quality, name-brand sealant over generic alternatives.
• When upgrading fixtures, consult manufacturer guidelines—some brands specify approved sealants to maintain warranty coverage.

Choosing the right faucet sealant isn't just about stopping leaks—it's about protecting your investment, preventing water damage, and ensuring hygiene and efficiency in your plumbing system. By evaluating fixture materials, application needs, environmental exposure, and system demands, you can select a sealant that delivers reliable, long-term performance. When in doubt, opt for versatile, high-quality silicone or consult a licensed plumber for complex installations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Faucet Sealants

Q1: What is the function of faucet sealant?

Faucet sealants play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and performance of plumbing fixtures. Their primary purpose is to create a watertight barrier between threaded joints, connections, and mounting points to prevent leaks. Beyond leak prevention, they also:

• Seal connections: Fill microscopic gaps in threaded pipe fittings (such as those on supply lines or faucet stems) to stop water seepage.
• Prevent corrosion: Shield metal components from moisture exposure, reducing the risk of rust and mineral buildup.
• Enhance installation: Make it easier to tighten fittings without damaging threads, especially when using Teflon tape or liquid thread sealants.
• Weather protection: In outdoor applications, high-quality sealants protect joints from freezing, UV exposure, and temperature fluctuations.

Proper sealing ensures long-term reliability of your faucet system and helps avoid water damage, mold growth, and increased utility bills.

Q2: Which are the usual types of sealant used for faucets?

Several types of sealants are commonly used in faucet installations and repairs, each designed for specific materials and conditions:

• Teflon Tape (PTFE Tape): Ideal for sealing threaded pipe joints (e.g., male and female NPT threads). It's easy to apply, non-toxic, and highly effective for both hot and cold water lines.
• Silicone Sealant: A flexible, waterproof adhesive perfect for sealing around the base of faucets mounted on sinks or countertops. Resists shrinking and cracking over time.
• Plumber’s Putty: A soft, malleable compound used to seal under sink components like strainers and pop-up drains. Not recommended for pressurized joints.
• Thread Sealant Adhesive (Pipe Dope): A liquid or paste compound applied to threaded connections. Offers stronger bonding than tape and is suitable for high-pressure systems.

Choosing the right type depends on the application—some are better for static seals, while others excel in dynamic or pressurized environments.

Q3: How to determine the right sealant for a faucet?

Selecting the appropriate sealant involves evaluating several key factors to ensure compatibility, durability, and safety:

• Fixture Material: Avoid acidic or solvent-based sealants on sensitive materials like acrylic or brass. Silicone and Teflon tape are generally safe for most metals and composites.
• Application Environment: For submerged or constantly wet areas (like under sinks), use waterproof, mold-resistant silicone. Outdoor faucets benefit from UV-stable and freeze-thaw-resistant products.
• Type of Joint: Threaded connections typically use Teflon tape or pipe dope, while surface-mounted bases require a flexible sealant like silicone to accommodate minor movement.
• Purpose (Installation vs. Repair): During new installations, plumber’s putty or tape is often sufficient. For repairing existing leaks, consider a hybrid sealant or epoxy-based solution for added strength.
• Water Temperature: Ensure the sealant is rated for both hot and cold water if used on dual-handle or thermostatic faucets.

Always consult manufacturer guidelines and product labels to confirm suitability before application.

Q4: Are faucet sealants durable enough to withstand water exposure?

Yes, most modern faucet sealants are specifically engineered to endure prolonged exposure to water and humidity. Their durability varies by type:

Sealant Type	Water Resistance	Lifespan	Best Use Case
Teflon Tape	Excellent (non-reactive, inert)	5–10 years (or until disassembly)	Threaded pipe joints
Silicone Sealant	Superior (flexible, waterproof)	7–15 years	Base sealing, sink mounts
Plumber’s Putty	Good (but can dry out over time)	3–7 years	Drain assemblies, non-pressurized seals
Thread Sealant (Pipe Dope)	Excellent (chemical and pressure resistant)	5–10+ years	High-pressure joints, permanent seals

When properly applied, these sealants maintain integrity under constant moisture, thermal cycling, and water pressure, making them reliable for long-term plumbing performance.

Q5: Can sealant repair existing leaks effectively?

Sealants can provide a temporary fix for minor leaks, but they are not a substitute for proper repairs in cases of significant wear or damage:

• Minor Drips: A bead of silicone or epoxy sealant can stop small leaks around the base or handle for a short period.
• Threaded Leaks: Reapplying Teflon tape or pipe dope to a loose connection may resolve seepage at supply lines.
• Limitations: If the leak stems from cracked components, worn cartridges, or corroded valves, sealants will not offer a lasting solution.
• Risk of Masking Issues: Using sealant to cover a leak might delay detection of more serious problems, potentially leading to water damage or mold.

For persistent or growing leaks, the best approach is to identify and replace the faulty part—such as O-rings, washers, or entire faucet cartridges. Sealants should be viewed as preventive or interim measures, not permanent fixes for failing hardware.