Generally speaking, in accordance with the invention, a
putty is provided that can include many or all of the handling characteristics of a traditional plumber's
putty, but with reduced
staining qualities. Such
putty can facilitate substantially
stain free installations. Putties in accordance with the invention can contain combinations of polymers or oligomers, solvents, fillers and optional rubbery materials. A composition according to the invention is preferably sufficiently
stain-free to be used on porous stone, such as marble and granite, without damaging the appearance of the stone. This is achieved by eliminating oil completely, or at least substantially, or restricting their ability to cause stains sufficiently. Because compositions of the invention can be made to be free of oils, they can also have the effect of eliminating the greasy feeling to the hands, which can occur when handling traditional putty. Putties in accordance with preferred embodiments of the invention can provide a degree of tackiness for adhesion and gap fill purposes during installation, as well as a degree of abrasiveness so that pressure from the tightening process will not cause the putty to slip. Of these benefits, one particularly important
advantage is the lack of
staining on most, if not all, surfaces traditionally used to finish kitchens and baths, including porous stones and other porous materials, such as unglazed ceramics.