How to Insulate With Paper, Cotton or Aluminum Foil
Recycled paper, usually in the form of newspapers, provides insulation against the cold. For permanent home insulation, commercial cellulose insulation -- shredded newspaper -- provides a green alternative to foam or fiberglass while offering protection from fire. For temporary home insulation or to insulate water pipes and other sensitive areas when temperatures plummet, newspapers or cotton wrapped with aluminum foil provides temporary protection from freezing.. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Wrap pipes or seal cracks that may allow cold air to seep inside the home with several layers of newspaper or cotton fabric to guard against freezing when the mercury drops. Cold, clear nights with temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit pose the greatest risk of frozen pipes -- but freezing is possible any time outside temperatures drop below 32 degrees.
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Secure the newspaper or cotton around the pipes with duct tape or twine. For the best insulating effect, the newspaper should hug the pipe -- or fill the crack -- snugly. Check that all areas of the pipe are covered and all cracks are sealed.
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Cover pipes wrapped in newspaper or cotton with plastic or aluminum foil and secure the edges with duct tape. Both prevent heat loss and create a protective vapor barrier. Although wrapping with plastic or foil is not required, it may increase the insulating effect of the newspaper.
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Tips & Warnings
Place rolled-up newspapers at the base of doors or windows to insulate your home against cold drafts.
Purchase insulating tape or pipe insulation to properly insulate your pipes. These products are safety tested and eliminate the risk of fire.
Fill any cracks leading to the exterior of your home with spray foam insulation to keep the pipes from freezing in cold weather.
Do not use newspapers or cotton to insulate areas near stoves, furnaces or other objects that produce heat.
References
Resources
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