How to Insulate Water Pipes Yourself

Having problems with your water pipes freezing in the winter? Frozen pipes can cut off your water supply and damage your plumbing. Here is a step by step guide on how to insulate your water pipes and prevent them from freezing.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pipe insulation
• String
• Measuring tape
• Duct tape
• Utility knife

1. 
    

   Determine how much insulation you will need. This can easily be done by running a long string down the length of your pipes as best you can and then measuring the distance of your string with a tape measure.

2. Figure out the diameter of your pipes. Most copper or PVC water pipes are either 1/2 inch, 1/4 inch, or 3/4 inch. This will be important when purchasing your pipe insulation.

3. Purchase your estimated amount of pipe insulation. Make sure your get the correct width as well as total length. Pipe insulation typically comes in 6 foot lengths and can be purchased at most hardware and home supply stores. They also make a pipe wrap insulation but I don't advise using it. Over time it starts to fall apart and it looks terrible.

4. Start wrapping your pipes. Each tubular foam piece of insulation will have a slit down the side so you can put it over the pipe. Use a utility knife to cut the lengths of insulation when necessary. Apply tape around the pipe insulation to secure it in place.