Step 5 · Assemble and Tighten the Fitting

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.

You can now assemble the joint. Align the male fitting with the female fitting and start threading them together by hand. It should turn relatively easily for the first few rotations. Continue to hand-tighten until it is snug. To complete the seal, use an appropriate tool like an adjustable wrench or channel-type pliers to tighten the fitting another one-quarter to one-half turn. Do not overtighten. The tape acts as both a lubricant and a sealant, so excessive force is unnecessary and can cause damage.