Energy Efficiency

What Materials are Best for Pipe Lagging?

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Freezing temperatures can bring a lot of trouble to piping systems. It is the primary cause of pipe bursts and mold growth. Therefore, as we approach the cold season, it is only best that we ensure our pipes are well lagged.

For us to, however efficiently lag our pipes, we must use the best lagging insulation materials available. Pipe lagging is only as effective as the insulating material used. Most of us tend to pick any lagging material that we come across. This shouldn’t be the case.
Since there are a variety of materials that can be used for pipe lagging, we decided to give you a quick guide on the materials that are best for pipe lagging. Note that, as we were analysing the materials below, we consider their overall effectiveness and customer satisfaction. S

Before we begin analysing the different pipe lagging materials. We must first ask ourselves;

Why should we insulate pipes?
There are two primary reasons as to why people insulate their pipes. One is to prevent sweating, and the second is to minimize freezing. Both of these situations if left unhandled, they can lead to massive damages translating to costly repairs. By properly lagging your pipes, you will have prevented pipe bursts and ensured energy efficiency in your home.
Below are the best materials for pipe lagging.

1. Tubular Rubber Insulation
It is at the top of our list because it is more durable and energy efficient compared to other insulation materials. It can either come with or without a seal-self adhesive. Nonetheless, the latter is a better option. The benefit of using tubular rubber insulation is that it expands and contracts as the temperatures change. Moreover, it can also be installed on heat cables.

2. Tubular Polyethylene Foam
This kind of lagging material features an easy installation process. Furthermore, if you get the self-sealing version, the moment you fit it onto the pipes, it immediately seals itself on both the length and slits. Compared to the Tubular Rubber Insulation, the Polyethylene foam doesn’t expand neither does it contract. However, it is an economical insulation material.

3. The Fiberglass Pipe Wrap Kits
It is also another economical pipe lagging material that can be installed with ease. It also comes with an overwrap for extra insulation. If you live in extremely cold areas, then you can use the multi-purpose fibreglass rolls.

4. The Foil and Foam Insulation
The foil and foam insulation are popular since it features the easiest installation procedure out of the four. It entails a thin self-adhesive foam that sticks when placed on pipes.
Now that you are familiar with the best materials for pipe lagging, you can pick one depending on your preference and budget. Take the time to check these different types of insulation and only choose the one that is suitable for your home’s environment. When lagging your pipes, don’t forget to confirm if the system is completely sealed. All entry points should be firmly sealed. Also, keep away from shortcuts. Using zip ties or duct tapes will only cause more problems later on since these pipes will expand and contract from time to time. Don’t forget to add an extra allowance when cutting the insulation material. For instance, if your pipe measures 13 inches, the insulation material should measure 13 ¼ inches.