Insulate Pipes - How To Insulate Plumbing Piipes

Insulating Pipes

Pipe insulation will keep cold-water pipes from
sweating in warm weather and will reduce heat losses from
hot-water piping as well. It comes in a number of forms.

The type easiest to use and effective for cold-water
pipes is a liquid material containing finely ground cork.
This is brushed on in one or more applications to build
up the necessary thickness. Often the liquid or paste is
asphalt which is messy to handle and does not look good.

More effective is a self-sticking tape that has
special insulating qualities. Several versions are
available. The putty-like tape is wound spirally around
the pipes. It is easily formed around fittings and makes
a neat installation.(Vis. 1)

Excellent insulation is obtained with 3-foot-long
plastic foam, wool felt, or fiber glass pipe jackets.
The thick insulating sections are split so they can be
slipped over straight pipe runs. (Vis. 2)

Regular blanket insulation can be cut in strips and
wrapped around the pipe. Peel back the insulation so the
asphalt paper can be lapped and taped.

This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus, with references from Michigan