So I think this was edited since I first saw it.

I don't know about the blue tape. My understanding is that it's just a thicker version of the white tape. One of those is done in white tape and it's leaking also.

The thing is, if those are compression fittings like I think they are, the tape does nothing for the seal. Again, I'm assuming the fitting is compression - so it does concern me that your plumber would tape that.

Forget about the tape. Get him to tighten all of the compression fittings.

Thanks Jake. I did not edit it once posted. They are compression fittings. I’ll do your paper towel test and let you know. The blue tape is a bit unsightly because it’s below two very pretty pedestal sinks. Not really an issue though, even for me. Just seams odd that both valves started to leak at the exact same time. One leaks significantly more than the other.

"I'm assuming the fitting is compression - so it does concern me that your plumber would tape that."

I would be suspect of a handyman that did that but not surprised a plumber would. Do yourself a favor,get rid of the jerk and hire someone else.

So they shouldn’t be taped? I’m just trying to understand. I’m not sure I even want him to come back and fix it.

Paper towel test: leak is higher up. I called pro who did install to take a look.

I would try and tighten up the fitting and see if that works.

I just read the email from the distributor again. He said “should not be taped” and said it appears to be Teflon tape. He is a licensed plumber and doesn’t install that way and does not recommend it.

guess I have my answer. :/

thank you!

Since the leak was found to be coming from above,being taped isn't causing the problem so forgetaboutit. The point Jake and I were making is that it look's amateurish. Not only is tape not necessary,it specificaly say's "do not use" on individually packaged devices with compression fittings.

The tape didn't cause the leaks. It's a little unsightly -- and I would think that they would have used the same color tape on both.

However, because they are compression fittings (both connections are) the seal isn't made with the threads (like is the case with a tapered threaded pipe) it's made with the compression ring under the nut. For that reason tape does nothing on the threads (you see this nonsense when guys tape gas flex lines that are flared also).

You just need to have all of those joints tightened and perhaps wiped with vinegar to clean up any lime.

Those are really pretty valves! be sure the person tightening them uses a properly sized wrench and not pliers.

And if you are going to be really nice, send that supplier their parts back and thank them.

Taping a compression fitting doesn't inspire confidence... not responding to a call-back is not good. Granted, it's a year and half later which would be outside most warranty periods, but if it was me, i'd be there and fix it and try to negotiate a nominal fee ($50) and wouldn't have my feelings too hurt if you pushed back.

Note: you say the leak is coming from above... so using the paper towel test again.. is it coming from the faucet connection and running down the riser?

To determine that, you may have to wrap the paper towel around the riser and use a bit of tape to hold it there for a day.

If compression fittings, no teflon tape should be used. To help in getting a tight compression, you can use some plumber's (silicone) grease on the threads.

The valves arent bad, the connection between the stub out and the valves are done wrong. All need redone till no leaking.

It look's to be simple as tightening nuts where supplies connect to facuet. You might buy a basin wrench and talk a neighbor or grandson into crawling under there to take care of it. Ripping out to start over mean's calling in a plumber plus there's 1 in 5 chance existing compression rings don't seal on a new valve. That would require tearing out wall in order to torch on new stubs. There's no room for Sharkbite and keeping it clean.

klem-

I agree with you except about how difficult it is if you need to replace a compression ring: Compression ring puller

Double check everything else this idjut touched. Even though insurance will pay for water damage from a flood, they will not pay for a gradual leak. And you don’t need the hassle of either.

Thanks all! He came and replaced the two leaking valves. Was argumentative about the Teflon tape debate but didn’t use any this time. Time will tell. Thanks for all advice. I appreciate it!

"All need redone till no leaking." -- I absolutely disagree.

Look, we get it that Teflon tape didn't need to be applied to these threads. However, the tape isn't causing the leaking either. These don't need to be "redone".

They simply need all of the connections tightened - paying particular attention to where they are actually leaking. According to the OP - they aren't leaking at the joint where the tape was used!

We don't need to pile on this plumber. We don't need to call him an "idjut".

His work may have been fine other than this issue and it's not uncommon to see this done. An argument could be made that the tape lubricates those threads to make a good seal with the compression rings more possible (Mike C points out you can use silicone grease also).

OP: Step 1 is understanding where these are leaking. At the connection to the faucet, where the riser connects to the shutoff or where the shutoff connects to the wall. (there is another possibility... that water on top or the sink is leaking around the base of the faucets and running down the riser.)

Step 2: Tighten all of the connections, particularly where you suspect a leak and clean them up with vinegar on a rag.

Step 3: Monitor the area for leaks.

Sorry, your post wasn't up until after I posted.

Redone, meaning, take the tape off and tighten till it doesnt leak. The tape doesnt help with compression, it hinders.

I am thinking he is on his way to idjut if he thinks the valves are bad and leaking when its clear the connection is leaking.

So Vith,

The valves weren't leaking where they were taped. They were leaking on the riser. That was established early on.