How to Insulate In-Wall Water Pipes

Water pipes inside walls don’t require extra insulation for protection, as long as you insulate the walls according to the R-value requirements in your area. But it might be advisable to insulate them separately when they’re in areas not receiving insulation, such as in a well house, an outbuilding or a garage. Insulating in-wall water pipes is easy when the stud wall is open to you for access.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Foam self-seal pipe insulation
• Utility knife or work shears

Instructions

1. Measure the length of pipe that requires insulation. Use the tape measure to calculate the length of all exposed piping in the wall. Add these measurements together. If you measured in inches, add them together and then divide by 12 to get the number of feet needed in foam self-seal piping insulation.

2. Purchase foam self-seal pipe insulation in the lengths needed for the pipes requiring insulation. This type of insulation works well for pipes in outbuildings or well houses. It comes in different sizes to fit your piping and is slit down the middle to make it easy to slip over piping. Because it's formed in the shape of the pipe, it doesn’t require any extra configuration or attachment to keep it in place.

3. Cut the pipe foam insulation to the length needed for each pipe requiring insulation using a pair of sharp work shears or a utility knife. You can use the smaller pieces to cover smaller sections of pipe or use it in conjunction with multiple pieces to cover the pipe.

4. Open the pipe insulation at the slit and slip it over the pipe. Repeat this for all the pipe that requires insulation. Peel away the self-seal strips and press the insulation together along the length of the pipe.

Tips & Warnings

• After insulating the pipes, add fiberglass batt insulation over them for extra protection if desired.