How many wraps of Teflon tape should I use?

Apply 3-5 wraps for standard water connections and 5-8 wraps for gas connections. Wrap clockwise so the tape tightens as you thread the fitting.

Can I use white Teflon tape on gas connections?

No, use yellow Teflon tape specifically rated for gas connections. Yellow tape is thicker and denser to properly seal gas fittings. White tape is for water only.

Teflon Tape (PTFE)Generating image…

Plumbing

Sealant

$1-$8 per roll

Teflon Tape (PTFE Thread Sealant) (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Building Materials Team

|Last updated May 15, 2026|Sources & methodology

Teflon tape (PTFE thread sealant tape) wraps around threaded pipe connections to fill gaps between threads and create a leak-proof seal. Available in standard white for water, yellow for gas, and pink heavy-duty for larger fittings. An essential supply for any plumbing project involving threaded connections.

Key Features

Seals threaded pipe connections
Available in multiple densities
Color-coded by application
Easy to apply and remove
Chemical and temperature resistant

Specifications

Material: PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) | Colors: White (water)

yellow (gas)

pink (heavy-duty) | Width: 1/2

3/4

1 inch | Length: 260

520

1296 inches per roll | Thickness: 2.5-4 mil

Applications

Water supply threaded connections
Gas pipe threaded connections
Shower head connections
Faucet supply connections
Air compressor fittings

Installation Overview

Clean the male threads. Hold the tape end against the threads and wrap clockwise (when facing the pipe end) 3-5 times, overlapping by half the tape width. Pull tight and tear. Thread the fitting by hand then tighten with a wrench.

Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ Inexpensive and essential
✓ Easy to apply
✓ Reusable connections
✓ Multiple color-coded types

Cons

✗ Not a substitute for pipe dope on large fittings
✗ Can shred if applied incorrectly
✗ Must wrap in correct direction
✗ Not needed on compression or solvent-weld joints

Top Brands

Watts

Code Requirements

Required on all threaded pipe connections to ensure leak-free joints. Yellow (gas-rated) tape required for natural gas and propane connections. Must be compatible with the medium being conveyed.

Buying Tips

Keep white and yellow tape in your toolbox at all times. Buy the thicker pink tape for larger fittings. Always wrap clockwise. Do not use on compression fittings or flare fittings where no tape is needed.