Plumbers putty, a malleable compound commonly used in plumbing applications, does not “dry” in the traditional sense of evaporation and hardening. Instead, it maintains a pliable consistency over time. The compound’s primary function is to create a watertight seal by conforming to the shapes of the surfaces it contacts. The time it takes for the putty to establish a reliable seal is virtually immediate upon proper application and compression. For example, when setting a drain flange in a sink, the putty is compressed between the flange and the sink basin, forming a seal as soon as the flange is tightened.
The importance of this characteristic lies in its immediate effectiveness. Unlike adhesives or epoxies that require curing periods, plumbers putty provides an instant barrier against water leakage. This is particularly beneficial in situations where water pressure is applied soon after installation. Furthermore, its non-hardening nature allows for easy disassembly and re-application if adjustments are necessary. Historically, plumbers putty has been a staple in plumbing due to its ease of use and reliable sealing properties, predating many modern sealants.
