Which two types of oakum are used by plumbers?

The two types of oakum used by plumbers are primarily brown and white. Oakum is a fiber material traditionally made from hemp or jute and often treated with tar to enhance its durability and water resistance.

Brown oakum is typically used for applications where additional strength and resistance to moisture are required, making it suitable for sealing joints and ensuring a watertight seal in plumbing. White oakum, on the other hand, is often untreated or lightly treated, making it more flexible and easier to handle for certain applications but less suited for areas exposed to heavy moisture.

Understanding the specific characteristics and uses of each type of oakum is crucial for plumbers, as selecting the right type can significantly impact the efficacy of plumbing repairs and installations.