Should I use the gasket that came with the kitchen faucet or plumber’s putty?

The most essential hardware found in any kitchen is a faucet. It is a vital asset for both, the cooking and the cleaning purpose in the kitchen. Although installing a faucet is not a complicated task for plumbers, but can be a tricky one for the people trying to do it themselves.

There are a number of different types of faucets out there in the market, but the process of setting them up is relatively similar to the location of the gasket is common. Either you use a gasket that comes with the faucet or use the traditional plumber’s putty. Let’s look deep into how each of them works.

How do they work?

A gasket, usually made out of rubber or fiber for the faucet, is used to fill out the space between the two surfaces, here, the water inlet and the valve. It has a circular ring-like opening that stops the water flow while the valve is off. Because of its high friction nature, it reduces the chances of movements, hence prevents leakage for a longer time. In case it wears out, it is readily available and easily replaceable without much of a hassle.

Plumber’s putty, on the other hand, is a clay-like substance used for the longest time to seal loose openings or leakages. It has been a basic tool for plumbers.

However, it is not the most reliable option out there for the kitchen faucets because they have to adhere to extreme temperatures i.e. boiling or ice-cold water. The putty dries out under the hot water and cracks when cold water is flowed over it, which shortens its life and makes it less useful.

What’s better?

Even though plumber’s putty is a cheaper alternate, it is advised to use the rubber gasket. Using an old school method to install a modern-day faucet and ignoring the potential chances of leaks, can result in irreversible damages to your kitchenware and cabinets due to those leakages.

Another reason to not choose putty is that the surrounding of the faucet in the kitchen is usually the marble tops. Plumber’s putty consists of chemicals and oils that stain the marble and granite, might as well crack, or erode the surface if it left on it.

Other factors

However, there are a number of factors that need to be considered prior to making the final choice. First of all, the putty used for the older faucet has to be completely scraped off the water inlet before any of the installation equipment is used. The remains might reduce the effectiveness of either of the two.

Secondly, the shape of your basin needs to be examined beforehand. Using a gasket is a better option if you have a less inclined sink, otherwise you would have to opt for the putty along with the gasket to secure it properly.

Most importantly, follow what the manufacturer’s instructions say. If he has provided with the gasket with the faucet, it is advised to use the gasket only. He is the best judge to his products after all.