Best Plumbing Tape UK
Published 2026-04-02 · Updated 2026-07-24
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-07-24.
Our pick: the LEENUE PTFE Tape 5 Pack, Plumbers Tape for Water Pipe (12mm x 13m) — the best Plumbing Supplies we tested, from £5.25.
A leaking tap or waste pipe is one of the most common weekend DIY jobs in UK homes. We compared PTFE thread seal tape, waste traps and solvent weld pipe to help you fix common leaks without calling out a plumber for every drip.
See the full range in Plumbing Supplies.
#1 Pick
LEENUE PTFE Tape 5 Pack, Plumbers Tape for Water Pipe (12mm x 13m)£5.25
Pros
- Essential cheap fix for leaking threaded joints on taps and radiators
- Five-roll pack keeps a spare in every toolbox or van
- Waterproof seal for shower heads and faucets too
Cons
- Not a substitute for a proper compression or solder joint on high-pressure lines
£8.99
Pros
- Standard UK bathroom fitting so replacements are easy to source
- Multifit compression outlet suits plastic, copper and lead pipe
- Compression joints need no solvent cement or soldering
Cons
- Plastic nuts can crack if overtightened
£11.50
Pros
- Solvent weld system gives a permanent, leak-free joint
- Widely stocked, so fittings and offcuts are easy to match
- Suitable for sink, bath and washing machine waste runs
Cons
- Requires accurate cutting and solvent cement for a good joint
FAQ
Is PTFE tape enough to stop a leaking joint on its own?+
For threaded compression and BSP joints, PTFE tape wrapped clockwise around the thread is usually sufficient. Persistent leaks on high-pressure supply pipes may need jointing compound as well, or indicate a worn washer or fitting that needs replacing.
Do I need a plumber for waste pipe work, or can I do it myself?+
Replacing a bathroom or kitchen waste trap and solvent-welded waste pipe is a common competent-DIYer job in the UK and is not notifiable work, unlike gas or new mains water connections, which do require a qualified professional.
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