What is PTFE tape

PTFE tape – often referred to as “plumber’s tape” – is a professional strength adhesive tape used in a variety of applications, usually involving ductwork or piping. You can find it in your local hardware store where it is usually sold in varying sizes, from small rolls to big spools. To better preserve the adhesive, plumber’s tape often comes inside a plastic casing.

PTFE is short for polytetrafluoroethylene, and what makes it so useful is that it’s hydrophobic (water repellant) and has very low friction. This makes PTFE tape a must-have for plumbers and anyone who does pipework jobs, such as irrigation contractors. Every plumber worth their salt should have teflon tape with their other irrigation tools.