How to Insulate Pex

Insulating Pex pipe is no different than insulating around copper or iron pipe. The easiest and most economical form of pipe insulation is called self-seal foam pipe insulation, which is an expanded rubber foam insulation material available in multiple diameters and lengths up to six feet. Installing this type of insulation is extremely easy and relatively inexpensive. Find foam pipe insulation at your local home improvement center year-round in the plumbing department.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Formed foam pipe insulation (six-foot sections)
• Insulating tape
• Scissors or a utility knife

1. Slide the Pex pipe into the formed foam pipe insulation. Formed foam pipe insulation is available in lengths up to six feet. Butt multiple lengths of formed foam pipe insulation together end to end. Cut lengths of formed foam pipe insulation with a pair of scissors or a utility knife to fit tightly into place where butting is required.

2. Remove the plastic adhesive strips at the same time for each individual length of formed foam pipe insulation to expose the adhesive. Be sure the seams for each length of insulation are fully adhered to ensure proper insulative value.

3. Tape the butt seams in between each length together with insulating tape to reduce heat loss through these seams.

Tips & Warnings

• Wrap formed foam pipe insulation around Pex, fitting joints wherever possible. Use insulating tape to wrap around the joints that cannot be covered with formed foam pipe insulation.

References

• Thermacel Pipe Insulation
• Foam can insulate copper pipes well
• Copper Pipes - Insulation and Heat Loss

Resources

• Armacell ¾ In. x 6 Ft. Tubolit Self-Seal Foam Pipe Insulation
• Pipe Insulation
• Free Insulation Thickness Computer Program