Lagging, or insulating, your household pipes will ensure that the heat in your hot water it is not lost before it travels to where it is needed in the home. And as we have said before in this article it will save you money in the long term.
Lagging pipe refers to the process of insulating pipes using materials that reduce heat loss or gain, as well as minimise noise transmission. The insulation material, often called "pipe lagging," wraps around the pipe to provide thermal and acoustic protection.
What pipes need lagging? You should apply lagging to outdoor pipes in garages and outbuildings as these are most likely to freeze during cold weather. Insulate indoor pipes in draughty and cold areas like attics and basements to prevent freezing.
Cut the pipe to the required length, then split it open on one side lengthways where the lagging should be pre-cut for you. Open the lagging and clip it around the pipe and make it nice and snug. When you come to a 45% angle just cut the lagging at an angle to make a good fit.
Lagging simply means adding insulation to the water pipes and is easy to do with foam tubes. It prevents them freezing and also helps any exposed hot water pipes retain their heat when running through unheated parts of the house.
Pipe lagging is a common way of insulating pipes. Lagging is slang for insulation. Pipe lagging typically comes in the form of a long section with a hole in the middle the same size as the bore of the pipe.
A: Yes, it is recommended to insulate both hot water and cold water pipes. Insulating hot water pipes helps in preventing heat loss, while insulating cold water pipes helps in preventing condensation and reduces the risk of freezing during cold weather.
Lagging or insulating your pipes with cheap foam tubing is simple and can help prevent your pipes from freezing.
For minor leaks, you can use plumber's tape, self-fusing silicone tape, or epoxy putty. Each of these methods helps seal leaks in pipes and fittings. Always start by turning off the water supply, drying the area, and applying the selected repair method.
Some might argue that this inherent feature negates the need for additional insulation. However, although PEX pipes are less conductive, they are not entirely immune to heat loss or condensation. If your primary concern is to maximize energy efficiency, insulating your PEX pipes can still provide additional benefits.
If you don't winterize your irrigation system, water can begin to freeze within your pipes, causing cracks or even complete breaks.
Products like Armaflex Tubolit Polyethylene pipe insulation foam or Armaflex Black Nitrile Pipe Insulation Lagging Foam are top-notch for household plumbing tasks. They are cost-effective and straightforward to install and the PE foam insulation keeps hot pipes heated and cold pipes chilled.
Lagging hot water pipes will keep your hot water much hotter, which in turn allows you to run your water heater at a lower temperature. Lagging your cold-water pipes will help to stop them from freezing up and also it lowers the risk of the pipes bursting during the colder weather.
Want to fortify your pipe system? Metal pipe clamps may be the all-stars that protect your pipes and save you a fortune. These versatile pipe supports keep pipes strong and enhance your pipe system's performance.
Pipe lagging, also known as pipe insulation, is a cover placed around pipes to reduce noise emissions that escape through the pipe wall (break-out noise). It can also keep pipes hot or cold or reduce condensation.
Average Flat Rate
Some plumbing jobs are billed at a flat rate. As of 2025, the average plumber rates for larger repairs are typically between $500 to $800, while smaller jobs like repairing toilets, sinks, faucets, or bathtubs typically range from $125 to $350.
If the leak is caused by a damaged valve, a trained tire technician can typically replace the valve at a minimal cost. In some cases, however, the tire may need replaced. If the leak is caused by a damaged wheel, a tire technician may be able to reseat and seal the tire using a bead sealer.
Minor DIY repairs might cost between $10-$50, while professional services range from $50 to $600, escalating in emergencies. For extensive damage, such as pipes under a foundation, costs can be $500-$4,000.
Pipes that freeze most frequently are: Pipes that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines.
Pipe lagging will the temperature of the water around 2 degrees higher than it would be without pipe insulation. This means that less energy is required to heat the water. This, in turn, reduces the cost of your utility bills and helps to lower your home's carbon emissions.
PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, has a chemical structure that gives it flexibility to withstand pressure increases and perform better in the winter. If water freezes in the pipe, for example, PEX will expand to accommodate the change. Then it will contract back to original dimensions once thawed.
The Water Research Foundation reported that 100 years is a conservative estimate for a properly designed and installed PVC pipe.
The small bore copper pipes commonly used may only need relatively thin insulation, such as 13mm, to provide adequate protection. However, if you have an industrial oil or maritime application with large bore outside steam pipes, a thicker insulation wall will be required - perhaps up to 50mm thick.
While metal pipes may rupture and burst when frozen, PVC pipes are brittle and are more prone to cracking and splitting due to their inability to properly contract and expand in response to cold temperatures. If there is water in your PVC pipes when they start to freeze, pressure may build up with no way to escape.