What Is Pipe Dope?

Pipe dope, or pipe joint compound, is a sealant used with any threaded pipe.

It is both a lubricant and a sealant for threaded joints.

White pipe dope painted to end of plumbing joint to ensure tight seals

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Some types of sealants are not appropriate for bothwater pipesand gas pipes.

Read the product usage specifications carefully.

If you are not comfortable sealing gas pipes, contact a professional immediately.

Materials and tools to use pipe dope on plumbing joints

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Do not smear the compound inside the pipes.

Thread the Pipes

Thread the pipe into the fitting.

Do not overturn or overtighten the joints.

Metal threads on plumbing joint brushed off with wire brush

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Tighten the joints with a wrench or fingers, then add one or two more smooth turns.

No drying time is necessary.

Turn counterclockwise until the compound is removed.

White pipe dope spread across pipe threads with applicator brush

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Instead, call a professional plumber to fix or replace the problem area.

Pipe dope is stronger than Teflon tape and is used more often by professionals than Teflon tape.

Pipe dope creates a strong, waterproof seal but it is not permanent.

Pipe with pipe dope inserted into fitting and tightened by hand

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Pipe dope can be removed.

Pipe dope is not the same asplumber’s putty.

Plumber’s putty is not used for threaded pipes.

Clean white rag wiping excess compound from joint threads closeup

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Do not use pipe dope on flared or compression pipe fittings.

Also, avoid using pipe dope on PEX plumbing materials and any non-threaded fittings.