Posted by Chappy Brown on December 30, 1999 at 09:06:36:

I don't understand plumber's putty. When I have used plumber's putty instead of a gasket to fit
a faucet to the top of a sink, the putty is periodically exposed to water when we spill water or clean the
faucet and sink, gradually becomes wet, decomposes and washes out in little flakes, day by day, until it
is pointless ever to have used it. This gives me no confidence to use it any place where I cannot see it.
Silicone sealants make a lot more sense, because they set and become water-proof, but instructions always
say "plumber's putty" even though it seems like a relic of olden times that should be forgotten.

Replies: