HOW TO INSULATE PIPES - Ask any homeowner who has suffered a burst pipe, due to them freezing, and they will tell you to insulate (lag) your pipe work without delay. In fact get it done today. If you leave it and a pipe bursts then you are in for a real miserable time and the repair bills could run into thousands. Just think about it… a pipe bursts in your attic and you are out shopping – that equals a complete plumbing nightmare.
By the time you return, the joists in your attic will be saturated, all the flooring and insulation will need replacing, any plasterboard ceilings and plasterboard walls will probably need replacing and once you’ve finished that little lot, you’re going to have to redecorate all the rooms affected. That’s a lot of money and a lot of hassle that can be saved with just an hour’s work. The guide below will show you how to properly insulate your pipe work so hopefully you will never have to experience the trauma of a burst pipe.
The video above provides a detailed look at how to insulate your pipes, with written instructions and information below.
Step 1
Take a tape measure and find out how much pipe lagging you need to buy. Just measure the lengths of all your pipe work. Add on about 10% to allow for wastage.
Step 2
Now measure the diameter of your pipes. When you buy pipe insulation it comes in certain sizes to fit the diameter of the pipe work. Normally lagging comes in lengths of 1 meter but it is essential you get the right diameter to create a really nice snug fit.
Step 3
When you buy the lagging make sure it comes with pipe lagging clips. If not then buy a quantity of these to secure the lagging to the pipes.
Step 4
When you unpack the insulation you will find a pre-cut slit down the entire length. This helps you to easily fit the lagging over the pipe.
Step 5
Fix the lagging over the pipe. At the elbow joints cut a 45 degree angle on both ends to ensure a nice tight fit. This can be done with a mitre block and a sharp bread knife or tenon saw.
Step 6
Once you have lagged all the pipe work go around it again and fit the clips in place so the the lagging is firmly fitted and won’t move about.
Step 7
Any joints or cut joints you have make should be sealed using insulation tape.
Acknowledgements: Video – WoodiesDIY.com
