Foam Pipe Insulation: What Are Its Important Benefits & How To Install It?

Those who have even the slightest idea of foam pipe insulation know that it’s an effective approach to keep pipes from freezing. Well, that is certainly correct: Pipe insulation keeps water in your plumbing system from freezing and expanding, which would otherwise cause the pipes to break and cause huge damage. On the other hand, foam pipe insulation serves many other purposes, far less spectacular functions in the home. Not only can these assist homeowners save money on utility costs, but they also simplify their daily lives.

Below are much-known advantages of foam pipe insulation that you must know.

1. Helps Control Condensation

To prevent condensation from corroding pipes and fittings, insulation is placed between the pipes and the air surrounding them. Even though condensation may appear to be a remote problem, it is a frequent event when cold-water lines come into contact with warm, moist air. To prevent heated air from accessing the pipes, they are covered in vapor barrier insulation.

Aside from protecting pipes, pipe insulation also protects individuals from accidents caused by contact with extremely hot or cold piping.

2. Reduces Heat Loss and Gain

The potential of foam pipe insulation to reduce heat gain and loss is perhaps the most important unnoticed benefit. In a home without pipe insulation, the hot water loses heat, and cold water gains heat as it passes through the plumbing system. Pipe insulation considerably reduces these otherwise inevitable inefficiencies. It may not seem important in the case of a hot-water pipe, but the benefits are substantial: lower monthly energy expenses and faster hot-water delivery.

Installation of Foam Pipe Insulation

Adding foam pipe insulation can help you save money and lower the inconvenience caused by a ruptured pipe. This article will guide you through the procedures of expert installation.

1. Clean the Pipe

Before installing foam insulation, cleanse the pipe of all sand and debris. Just use whatever cleaner you have in the kitchen. Wipe it off thoroughly with a cloth. Wait till it’s dry before insulating.

2. Determine the Section of a Pipe

A segment of pipe should be measured and cut to the appropriate size with foam pipe insulation. You can use any joints or elbows you want because the insulation should be able to flow right over them without a problem.

3. Install Foam Pipe

In most cases, the foam pipe insulation will be delivered in a tube that looks similar to a swimming noodle but with an open side. The open side should be coated with self-stick adhesive. Grab hold of the piece of foam pipe insulation and press it firmly against the pipe’s outer wall. Once the pipe is covered, peel the paper away from the adhesive and seal the ends. If the pipe has a curve, you’ll want to seal the insulation shut before putting it around the bend. If any part of the pipe is exposed, the process must be repeated.

4. Complete

Seal the pipe with duct tape after it has been wrapped in foam pipe insulation. This prevents the foam pipe from leaking.