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Remove Excess Plumber Putty — Clean Up and Install Strainer

Beginner

Part of project

How to Replace a Shower Drain in an Existing Shower Base · Step 8 of 9

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Once the strainer is fully tightened from below, return to the top side of the sink. You will see a ring of excess plumber's putty that has been squeezed out. Simply use your finger to gather and peel away this excess putty. After removing the bulk of the putty, use a clean cloth or towel to wipe away any remaining residue, leaving a clean, finished installation.

Goal: Clean up the installation

Used in this video

  • Cleaning Cloth (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Cleaning Cloth, Material: Microfiber)Wiping away excess plumber's putty and cleaning the sink surface.
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FAQs

Why is the Husky Tub Drain Removal Tool essential for this project, and can I use standard tools instead?

This specialized tool is crucial because it grips the drain from the inside, allowing removal when there's no access from below the shower. Standard tools like pliers or wrenches usually can't get enough leverage or grip to unscrew a corroded drain from the top, risking damage to the shower base. It ensures you can remove the old drain without damaging the surrounding shower pan.

What key safety steps should I take before and during this shower drain replacement project?

Always turn off the water supply to the shower to prevent accidental leaks or flooding. Ensure good ventilation when using mineral spirits for cleaning, as fumes can be strong. Wear appropriate eye protection and gloves to protect against chemicals, sharp edges, and debris throughout the process.

How long should a beginner expect this project to take, and what's the approximate material cost?

For a beginner, expect this project to take 2-4 hours, allowing ample time for preparation, thorough cleaning, and proper sealant curing. The material cost, including a new drain kit, plumber's putty, and sealant, typically ranges from $30-$70, not including any specialized tools you might need to purchase.

What's the most common mistake beginners make, and how can I guarantee a watertight seal to prevent leaks?

The biggest mistake is inadequate cleaning of the drain opening and improper application of plumber's putty or sealant. To ensure a watertight seal, meticulously remove all old caulk, rust, and debris from the drain opening. Apply an even, generous bead of plumber's putty under the new drain flange, tightening it correctly to squeeze out excess, and always perform a thorough leak test before finalizing.

Transcript
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turns here, a cup of here, a cup of here, and rotate it until it's tight. So this is what the top of the strainer is going to look like after you already tightened the bottom. Simply just grab it, and slowly just take it off, you know, you can grab your finger just like that to spread it out, completely out, just clean it up, you can grab a towel. Once that's nice and clean, that that should prevent any leaks from coming down, and that's

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