Step 5 · Assemble the Joint

This is the step people usually slow down on. Go finger-tight first, then a quarter turn. No rush — replay the clip whenever it helps.

With the tape properly applied, you can now assemble the joint. Carefully align the taped male fitting with the female fitting and begin screwing them together by hand. Hand-tightening first ensures that the threads are properly engaged and not cross-threaded. Once it is hand-tight, use the appropriate tool, such as an adjustable wrench or channel-type pliers, to tighten the connection further. A general rule is to tighten one to two full turns past hand-tight. You will feel the resistance increase as the tape compresses to form the seal. Do not force it or over-tighten.