How to choose insulation for heating pipes and whether it is needed. Polyurethane foam material for insulation of heating pipes. Insulation materials and requirements for heating systems

Insulating water pipes in the basement means creating a comfortable microclimate and reducing the cost of the heating system. Such work is important for both private houses and multi-apartment buildings. Apply to the pipeline insulation process certain requirements. This applies to any systems: plumbing, heating and sewer.

IN recent years Polypropylene structures in the basements of houses have become popular. Do they need to be insulated? If during the construction process it was not insulated strip foundation, then definitely. If a private building is used only in summer and is not heated in winter, pipe insulation will prevent the system from freezing and failing.

Requirements for insulation materials

To insulate pipes in the basement of a private house, various materials are used. Regardless of their type and composition, they must meet important indicators:

  • be durable;
  • resistant to humidity;
  • fireproof;
  • easy to install;
  • resistant to temperature changes.

How to insulate a pipeline in the basement

The better way to insulate water pipes in the basement, because the choice of materials is wide. The first step is to choose insulation that meets the above requirements.

Mineral wool and glass wool

These insulators are best used for metal-plastic structures. Fiberglass has low thermal conductivity and resistance to elevated temperatures. But it does not tolerate moisture. Therefore, you will have to spend extra money on insulation from humidity. This insulation is used only for buildings that are heated all year round.

Mineral wool is dangerous for human skin and mucous membranes. It is recommended to work with it wearing gloves and a respirator. The material must be wound around the pipeline and secured with a strong rope. Wrap along the entire length of the pipe and secure at its end. It is recommended to apply foil or roofing felt on top of the mineral wool.

PPU and expanded polystyrene

Such insulators are resistant to moisture and mechanical stress. They can be used several times if repairs and disassembly of the structure are required. To insulate heating pipes in the basement with polystyrene foam, you need to wrap it around the pipe and secure it with tape around the entire circumference. This insulation has the properties of a thermos. It is very resistant to environmental influences and perfectly retains heat around the pipe.

Foamed polyethylene

The insulator is easy to install. Quickly attaches to pipes. Using clamps or foil tape. Perfectly protects heating structures in private homes. Can be used many times.

The process of insulating the water supply in the basement

To insulate a water pipe in the basement yourself, you do not need professional tools or skills. After selecting a suitable insulator, you need to arm yourself with clamps, tape or nylon wire.

  • Measure the outer diameter and length of the pipeline. Cut the material according to the parameters. Sometimes it is necessary to wrap sewer pipes several times. This should be taken into account when “cutting” the insulator.
  • Wrap the heating structure and immediately secure the insulation. Wrap the tape or rope tightly. It is easier to work if the materials are cut into small pieces lengthwise.

House heating costs are increasing every year. Each owner is looking for ways to save money: the boiler turns on periodically, or constantly works only at a minimum, and so on. The use of such methods leads to a significant decrease in the temperature in the house. But few people think about how efficiently the living area is heated, because most of the heat is lost on the way to it. If heat loss can be minimized, then the rooms will warm up better and faster, therefore, continuous operation of the boiler will not be required, and it will be possible to resort to savings without compromising the temperature. Since boilers are often located in basements and other utility rooms, we will consider how to insulate heating pipes in the basement and other possible places where the system passes.

Foam plastic for pipes in the basement

The insulation technology depends on the choice of a specific material, which is selected depending on the conditions under which it will be used in the future. The most basic difference between basements and other possible places for pipes to pass is the high level of humidity. Therefore, it is necessary to choose a material taking into account this important feature.

It is best to insulate heating pipes on the ground and basement floors using polystyrene foam, foam glass, penoizol or expanded polystyrene. This group of insulation materials has the lowest moisture absorption rates. Among the materials mentioned there are both budget and more expensive options.

Before starting insulation, the surface of the products must be thoroughly cleaned of rust and dried from moisture. It is advisable to cover the elements protective equipment– special paint that can withstand high temperatures. After this, you can begin to attach the insulation to them. You should start either from the beginning of the element coming out of the wall, or from the junction of two elements at a right angle. The insulation segments have a basic connection system with each other - a tongue and groove.

The first half of the insulation is applied to the pipe, and then the second half is applied and secured. The material is easy to cut, but does not bend. It will not be difficult to adjust the dimensions of an excessively long segment to the required ones, but to insulate the corners you will have to cut out rings with different side widths.

Glass wool for pipes in the attic

Unlike the previous location of the pipes, high humidity is rarely observed here, which is explained by strong ventilation. Complete insulation of attic spaces is not yet common. That's why distinctive feature are high levels of sub-zero temperatures.

The choice of material should be determined by its thermal conductivity, as well as the ability to connect segments without the risk of forming cold bridges. Based on this, it turns out that insulation of heating pipes in the attic is best done using glass wool, slag wool, stone wool and basalt wool.

The products are sold in rolls, which is convenient for working with pipes. In addition, joining the edges of the canvases overlapping allows you to avoid the formation weak points in isolation. Cheaper options are used if the region of residence has mild winters. Otherwise, you should turn your attention to higher quality and more expensive materials.

Before starting work, you should clean the elements from dust, debris and dirt. It is advisable to coat them with radiator paint to protect them from rust. When working with this material, you must use gloves, a respirator, safety glasses and a robe that covers the entire body. The material is cut into sheets, the dimensions of which depend on the diameter of the pipes, as well as the number of layers of wrapping. It is advisable to wrap each section of the system at least twice. The edge of each subsequent canvas overlaps the edge of the previous one. Next, clamps are put on the insulated heating pipes. They are tightened at the joints of the canvases, securely fixing them in place.

Foiled foam foil for outdoor pipes

The passage of heating pipes on the street greatly affects the decrease in temperature in the house. In addition, sections of the system located under open air, quickly deteriorate due to constant exposure to adverse weather conditions. Therefore, insulation of heating pipes on the street should be carried out using materials with the lowest thermal conductivity and moisture absorption.

In order for insulation to last as long as possible, they must be closed. For these purposes, a waterproofing membrane is most often used. Insulation in this case is carried out mainly using foamed polyethylene or polyurethane, as well as foil foam. The highest quality insulation with the longest service life will be done using heat-insulating paint. This material is several times superior to other options in its properties.

The surface of pipes located outside must be thoroughly cleaned before insulation; this step is especially important for elements that have been installed a long time ago. Next comes the process of painting this section of the system, and it is necessary to apply paint for radiators in two or three layers. After it dries, insulation segments are installed. Its inner diameter must exactly match the outer diameter of the pipes. This material is laid in exactly the same way as the foam plastic considered. The final stage there will be several layers of waterproofing membrane wrapped around the insulated element. Its canvases, just like when wrapping glass wool, are overlapped. Then clamps are installed in these places.

Insulating heating pipes with your own hands is quite simple. You don't need a power tool. It will only be expensive to purchase materials that will pay for themselves in the first heating season. And changes in the quality of heating of residential premises will be noticeable immediately, since the heat will not be wasted.

Insulation of heating pipes in the basement and attic: procedure and materials, Portal about pipes


Why insulate heating pipes? How to properly insulate heating pipes in the attic, basement, or outdoors. Selection of materials and work order

How to insulate heating pipes with your own hands - selection and installation of pipe insulation

Heat loss in a pipeline is main problem both autonomous and central lines of the heating system. And if the reduction of heat loss within the region is entrusted to public utilities, then the owner of a private house needs to take care of the insulation of heating pipes himself, and due to the insignificant amount of work, do it himself.

Is it necessary to insulate heating pipes and what benefits does it give?

Thermal insulation for heating pipes allows:

  • reduce heat loss in places where pipes pass along the ground, are mounted by air (ground) or are located in an unheated room;
  • prevent freezing of the liquid, which is the coolant (freezing is fraught with a pipe break);
  • reducing the likelihood of corrosion on the surface of the pipe (for metal pipelines);
  • saving money on heating your home.

Thus, the more reliably the heating system is insulated, the more heat the user will receive (the higher the efficiency), and the less he will have to pay for gas for heating (or for electricity, if an electric boiler).

Due to the fact that the coolant moves through the heating system, the task of pipe insulation is reduced to minimizing heat loss and preventing rupture of the system due to freezing.

A popular solution in this case is the use of thermal insulation materials. This is the most budget-friendly and easiest insulation method from the point of view of independent implementation.

Thermal insulation for outdoor heating pipes

A variety of insulation materials makes it possible to choose exactly the one that suits you in the best possible way for a specific application location (outdoors, underground, basement, attic) and budget.

The selection of a heat insulator is carried out taking into account the following factors:

  • heating system pipe diameter;
  • operating conditions (location of the heating system);
  • average heating temperature of the coolant;
  • thermal conductivity indicator of insulation (the lower, the better);
  • water absorption rate. Shows the ability of the insulating material to perform its functions in a humid environment;
  • resistance to combustion, biological and chemical activity, ultraviolet radiation and other environmental factors;
  • service life;
  • ease of installation (provided that sufficient tightness is ensured);
  • price.

How to insulate outdoor heating pipes with your own hands

To choose the right pipe insulation, you need to know what types of thermal insulation for heating pipes exist, and what are the features of each of them.

Classification of thermal insulation materials for heating pipes

1. According to installation method:

  • rigid sheet insulation. These include: polystyrene foam and polystyrene foam. Despite the high thermal insulation properties, the installation of such insulation is quite complicated from the point of view of ensuring the tightness of the insulation;
  • roll insulation. These include: polyethylene (used as an additional component of insulation), foil penofol, wool (mineral and glass wool). The use of rolled materials requires the arrangement of their reliable fastening to the pipe;
  • segmental (casing) insulation. There are two types of such insulation: hard - shells made of polystyrene foam, polyurethane foam (PPU) or polystyrene foam, and soft - polymer pipes. The advantage of segment materials is that they hold their shape perfectly, are easy to install and provide required level tightness of the fit of the heat-insulating material to the heating pipe;
  • sprayed insulation, incl. thermal paint. Penoizol has proven itself to be an excellent sprayer, as it allows you to insulate even small cracks. Thermal paint has the same property. The only disadvantage of these materials is that they are quite expensive and applying them yourself is problematic.

Thermal insulation of heating pipes with hard, soft and sprayed insulation

2. By type of insulation:

  • polystyrene foam and polystyrene foam. Possess best characteristics from the point of view of maintaining the initial temperature of the coolant. Their use in the form of a shell simplifies installation and provides reliable protection of the system;

Thermal insulation for heating pipes - foam shell Thermal insulation material for heating pipes - polystyrene foam and polystyrene foam

  • wool (mineral, glass wool). Can be used as a roll or sectional material. Regardless of the type and configuration, cotton wool insulation for heating pipes has a significant drawback, which is that cotton wool is hygroscopic. Those. it needs additional protection from moisture. When wet, cotton wool loses its properties. Therefore, sections often have additional protection in the form of a foil layer. But cotton wool is great for insulating pipes in the basement or attic.

Thermal insulation for heating pipes - mineral wool casing Thermal insulation for heating pipes - a shell made of foiled basalt wool

  • foil penofol. Due to its small thickness, it is used primarily for insulating pipes indoors.

Thermal insulation for heating pipes - foil penofol Insulation of heating pipes with penofol

  • polyethylene foam– (EPE, PPE) polyethylene foam for pipes.

Thermal insulation for heating pipes - polyethylene foam (PPE) Insulation for heating pipes - polyethylene foam pipe

Comparison of thermal insulation materials for pipes - video

Heating pipe insulation technology

To choose from pipe thermal insulation and the method of its installation influences the location of the pipeline.

Insulation of heating pipes on the street

External thermal insulation of pipes is the most difficult method of insulation, since in the open air it is not only the pipes that need protection, but also the insulation itself. For outdoor installation, non-hygroscopic materials or other materials are used, but reliably protected from moisture by a film or casing.

In addition, it is advisable to use the densest and thickest insulation outdoors. Another requirement is the use of a material that is resistant to ultraviolet radiation, weather and mechanical damage.

Insulation of heating pipes in an unheated room

Basement, cold attic, boiler room - a feature of such rooms is the absence of heating radiators. But since the pipes are filled with coolant and are located in an environment with minimal humidity, there are no special requirements for either the thermal insulation material or its thickness.

Thermal insulation of heating pipes in an unheated (cold) room

Insulation of heating pipes underground

The specificity of installing heating pipes underground is that they must be laid below the freezing level of the soil, which is a depth of one and a half to two meters. If you do not adhere to this requirement, the coolant will cool greatly while it passes through the heating main located in the ground. In order to reduce heat loss, you need to take care of high-quality insulation of the underground pipeline.

Experts say that the optimal solution in this case would be to use cable system heating pipes. But due to the high cost, users prefer enhanced thermal insulation of heating pipes.

Good insulation of underground heating pipes requires the following requirements:

  • insulation of insulation from moisture in the soil;
  • eliminating the possibility of deformation of the insulation, because in this case, its properties are reduced. This is especially true for soft thermal insulation materials;

According to reviews, optimal solution– thermal insulation of heating pipes using polyurethane foam shells.

Note. Users recommend that for pipes that are laid above the ground freezing level, use combined system insulation, namely: a combination of cotton wool and hard polyurethane foam shell with a protective fiberglass coating. Ideally, even at the installation stage, use factory-made multilayer pipes in polyurethane foam insulation.

How to insulate heating pipes with your own hands

Sequence of actions in the form of step-by-step instructions:

  • calculation and purchase of thermal insulation material;
  • wrapping the pipe with foil tape or foil. The foil acts as a heat reflector;
  • installing insulation around the pipe. Sectional hard (casing) or soft insulation is simply “put on” the pipe. Regarding soft materials, then they need to be cut into pieces equal in width to the diameter of the pipe. Next, wrap it around the pipe and secure it with tape, wire or plastic clamps. Hard insulation is the hardest part. From it you need to create a box around the pipe (or use pipe shells of the appropriate diameter);
  • inspect the insulated pipe for the presence of “cold bridges” and eliminate them;
  • if necessary, cover the heat-insulating material with protective material (film) and seal the joints with tape.

The costs of insulating heating pipes, despite their initial value, are quickly recouped by saving on bills for heating the house.

Insulation of heating pipes - thermal insulation for heating pipes


Thermal insulation for heating pipes in the open air - insulation of the pipeline of the heating system of a house on the street, in the ground, in the basement, in the attic. Types of thermal insulation material, installation methods

How to choose insulation for heating pipes and whether it is needed

Purpose of insulation of heating pipes

Upon a superficial examination of the problem, the question raised seems absurd: why insulate pipes through which water constantly flows? hot water? After all, in that case heating system is warmed up all the time, and the possibility of freezing tends to zero, along with the probability of a breakthrough. It is not surprising that the house of owners who think this way is always cold.

Installation of a boiler room in the basement multi-story building will not solve the problem, since the very presence of cold air next to the pipes already leads to losses. In addition, in some cases it becomes relevant to insulate heating pipes in the attic: some households install them there.

In private and country houses, the situation looks somewhat different: often boiler or heating elements are located in a heated room, so heat loss is almost zero level. However, very often a situation arises when even in such a house it is necessary to insulate the pipelines, for example, if the boiler is located in the basement or remote room of the building. Thus, installing insulation allows you to solve two problems at once: firstly, the room temperature rises, and secondly, the amount of fuel consumed will be significantly reduced - and this is a direct cost saving.

Choosing insulation for heating pipes

Nowadays, there is a fairly large range of materials that make it possible to make insulated pipes for heating. Choice suitable material– this is a purely individual matter, and the decision will be made depending on large quantity parameters. Let's consider various insulating materials and their areas of application.

Mineral wool materials

Mineral wool is the most popular material for insulating heating pipes. The properties of mineral wool allow it to be used in almost any situation, and its high efficiency becomes another confirmation of the popularity of the material. Mineral wool can withstand temperatures up to 650 degrees Celsius, which allows it to be used directly in boiler rooms. In addition, this material is the most common and quite cheap.

  • good resistance to all types chemical influences;
  • absence of toxic emissions and safety for humans;
  • low water absorption (one of the most important parameters, since moisture getting into any insulation significantly reduces its effectiveness);
  • cheapness and prevalence.

Mineral wool insulation is very easy to install yourself. The main thing is not to forget about the means personal protection. Mineral wool allows you to create excellent insulation for heating pipes in the basement or outdoors. In addition, mineral wool has also been used in furnace systems: the material is actively used to protect pipes from overheating.

Other, no less effective insulation materials are made based on mineral wool:

  1. Basalt wool. The basis of this insulation is always natural materials, and the main component is rocks with a high basalt content. Basalt wool is identical in characteristics to mineral wool, but has much lower thermal conductivity.
  2. Glass wool. Quartz sand and crushed glass are used to make glass wool. Glass wool is well suited for creating external thermal insulation because it has a low density and does not react well to high temperatures.

Polyurethane foam material for insulation of heating pipes

In domestic construction, polyurethane foam insulation is very often used. This material is made in the form of two tubes, which are assembled according to the “pipe-in-pipe” principle. For clarity, look at the photo of this material. In addition to its insulating properties, polyurethane foam can provide good protection against mechanical damage. To prevent leakage, manufacturers recommend using heat-shrinkable polymer tape.

  • no toxic emissions;
  • good resistance to weather conditions;
  • high resistance to mechanical damage;
  • excellent resistance to rotting and chemical influences;
  • neutral attitude towards electricity.

All these positive qualities allow polyurethane foam to find application in construction, but there is one factor that prevents this material from becoming the most popular - too high a cost.

Foamed polymer materials

In addition to polyurethane, other synthetic substances are also used to create reliable thermal insulation.

  1. Foam rubber. It has a number of advantages: elastic, temperature-resistant, fire-resistant. Good resistance to high temperatures and open fire allows this material to be used in cases where the insulation is constantly exposed to open fire or sparks.
  2. Foamed polyethylene. This material is well suited for internal insulation premises. Foamed polyethylene is produced in the form of tubes with special cuts that facilitate the installation of insulation. A large assortment allows you to choose a heat insulator of the required shape and size. Polyethylene reacts quite calmly to cement and other building materials, which makes it possible to use it in any construction work.
  3. Foam plastic. Its characteristics are similar to polyethylene foam, but it has greater rigidity. It is manufactured in the form of pipe elements equipped with grooves for fastening. Polystyrene foam is very durable: its service life can be several decades.
  4. Foam glass. Far from being the most common material, despite its good performance. It is moisture resistant, has low thermal conductivity, and is very dense. It retains its shape during prolonged physical exposure. Well protects against a variety of rodents.

Insulation of heating pipes with liquid material

A good material that can compete on equal terms with the heat insulators already described is heat-insulating paint. Applied to the pipe, this paint replaces a 5-centimeter layer of polyurethane. In addition to good insulating properties, liquid thermal insulation of heating pipes protects the metal from corrosion, is not subject to temperature deformation and provides good appearance pipes

Insulation for heating pipes: proper insulation pipes in the basement, thermal insulation of heating pipes in the attic, outdoors, choice of material, photo and video tips


Insulation for heating pipes: proper insulation of pipes in the basement, attic, outdoors, choice of material, photo and video tips

Insulation of pipes in the basement of an apartment building (cheap)

During severe frosts, problems arise with freezing of water in water pipes located in basements apartment buildings. Rupture can occur with both plastic and metal water pipes .

Today we will try to reveal as much as possible the principles associated with pipe insulation in basement apartment building.

What to consider when performing thermal insulation

Before you begin insulating a structure located in the basement of an apartment building, you should understand the basic requirements in order to get the expected result and avoid numerous problems.

  • Maximum service life.
  • Self-extinguishing ability.
  • Availability of water-repellent properties.
  • Easy to install.
  • Low cost.
  • Environmental friendliness.
  • Low thermal conductivity.

Thermal insulation in an apartment building

Which materials are preferable?

Today, the variety of materials with which you can easily and quickly insulate water supply in the basement is impressive.

Among the effective and most popular are the following:

1. Mineral wool

Elements made on the basis of mineral wool will cope with temperature changes. With its help, you can insulate not only pipes in the basement of an apartment building, but also those located outside or in the ground. You can see what mineral wool looks like in the photo below.

2. Polyurethane foam

Ideal for insulating basement water pipes and attics. In essence, it is the outer shell of the water supply system. This design minimizes heat loss and adds strength. This heat insulator is not afraid of chemical influences and does not rot. But it has one drawback - high cost.

3. Expanded polystyrene

This material is characterized high level rigidity. Expanded polystyrene insulation is sold in the form of a part of a pipe that has protrusions for fastening.

4. Polyethylene foam

This heat insulator is best suited for internal insulation of a heating system.

5. Foam plastic

Polystyrene foam is good for insulating heating and water supply systems on ground and basement floors. Has a low level of moisture absorption. Foam plastic is also very durable and can be used for more than two decades.

6. Foam rubber

The heat insulator has a number of advantages. It is elastic, temperature resistant and not afraid of fire. Due to the fact that it is fire resistant, it is suitable for insulating external pipelines.

7. Liquid heat insulator

High-quality material that can compete equally with others. For example, one layer of paint can replace a 5-centimeter layer of polyurethane. In addition to its insulating properties, liquid thermal insulation can protect metal from corrosion and give pipes a good appearance. But it is not used for thermal insulation of plastic pipes.

Regardless of the material you choose, the main thing is that the insulation is effective and there are no problems with tearing or other damage on cold days.

Insulation of pipes in the basement of an apartment building: cheap (video)


In order to insulate pipes in the basement of an apartment building, you need to select required insulation for pipes This will help solve many problems.

Related articles:

To reduce heat loss when installing heating systems outdoors, line insulation is used, which is a multilayer casing made of various materials. External protection of heating pipes significantly increases the service life of the pipeline, reduces financial costs for maintenance and fuel consumption for the boiler room. With the help of insulation, a stable temperature of the coolant is achieved, which reaches the end consumer without significant losses.

Insulation materials and requirements for heating systems

List of materials used for thermal insulation of pipelines:

  • mineral wool;
  • expanded polystyrene;
  • penoizol;
  • foamed polyethylene;
  • polyurethane foam;
  • penofol.

Not only the main main pipelines are subject to insulation, but also the heating pipes of private and apartment buildings located in the basement, cellar, roof, street. Modern insulation materials are developed from inexpensive materials, with an ergonomic design that helps to process pipes without the help of professionals and special tools.

Insulation for heating and hot water supply pipes - material requirements:

  1. Low thermal conductivity.
  2. Safety for humans and environment.
  3. Inert to acids, alkalis and other biological substances.
  4. Non-flammable material.
  5. High melting point.
  6. Low hygroscopicity.
  7. High corrosion resistance.
  8. Durability.
  9. Economical.
  10. Easy installation.

Features of using mineral wool as insulation

Mineral wool is perhaps the most famous, oldest and reliable material from all types of insulation. Along with high-quality thermal insulation, it ensures the safety and durability of pipelines. The material does not burn, is inert to acids, alkalis, and other chemical compounds. The cost of mineral wool is significantly lower than most modern insulators, which plays an important role for large volumes of construction.


Types of mineral wool for insulation:

  • glass - obtained from molten glass;
  • stone - obtained from the melt of volcanic rocks;
  • slag – a product of processing slag from a blast furnace.

Like most porous materials, mineral wool is hygroscopic and readily absorbs moisture from the environment. A material saturated with water sharply loses its thermal insulation properties and contributes to metal corrosion. Therefore, when insulating pipelines, external waterproofing must be provided. Usually these are sheets of roofing felt or aluminum foil of increased strength.

The need to use waterproofing dramatically increases the overall cost of installing a heating system. Therefore, today mineral wool is used for insulation of heating pipes in rare cases when it is not possible to use cheaper analogues.

Technical characteristics of polystyrene foam

Two half-cylinders of polystyrene foam are placed on the pipe from above and below. There is a groove at the cut points, which ensures the absence of gaps and reliable joining of the parts to each other. The insulated pipe is wrapped with metal wire, tape or secured with clamps. The casing reliably protects the line from cooling and physical damage. Despite the water-repellent properties of the material, it must be protected from moisture. For this purpose waterproofing is provided.


Compared to mineral wool, expanded polystyrene is a cheaper and easier to use insulator. It is preferably used when installing heating systems in private homes and basements, since the material is easy to install even for a non-professional. It is quite easy to insulate risers with your own hands - it is important to choose the correct diameter of the casing, secure it to the main line, and treat it with waterproofing. If the area is damaged, the coating is removed and replaced with a new one.

The disadvantage of using polystyrene foam as pipe insulation is the inability to handle bends and turns of the heating system with a casing made of this material.

The main characteristics of expanded polystyrene are given in Table 1.

Table 1. Specifications expanded polystyrene
Name of indicators PSB-S-15U PSB-S-15 PSB-S-25 PSB-S-35 PSB-S-50
Density, kg/m3 up to 10 up to 15 15,1-25 25,1-35 35,1-50
Compressive strength at 10% linear deformation MPa, not less 0,05 0,06 0,08 0,16 0,20
Bending strength, not less 0,08 0,12 0,17 0,36 0,35
Dry thermal conductivity at 25 °C, W (m K) 0,043 0,042 0,039 0,037 0,036
Water absorption in 24 hours, % by volume, no more 3,0 2,0 2,0 2,0 2,0
Humidity, % no more 2,4 2,4 2,4 2,4 2,4

Penoizol for insulation of heating systems

Modern insulation for heating pipes, similar in quality to expanded polystyrene. Penoizol is applied to the surface of the pipeline in liquid form using a special sprayer. Under the influence of atmospheric air, the material hardens, forming a durable, non-hygroscopic film without seams.


Technical characteristics of penoizol:

  • thermal conductivity 0.035…0.047 W/m 0C;
  • temperature limit -50…+1200С;
  • density 15 kg/m3;
  • compressive strength – no more than 1 kg/cm2;
  • adsorption – 6...8%.

After treatment, the pipes do not need to be covered with waterproofing material - penoizol does not absorb moisture, does not allow air to pass through, and does not react to chemicals or biological substances. If the seal of the coating is broken, the damaged area is simply foamed again.

Insulation of pipes with foamed polyethylene

Foamed polyethylene is sold in rolls, so it can be easily used for insulation of water pipes by every householder. The film is cut into pieces, wrapped around pipes, secured with wire and clamps.

Advantages of foamed polyethylene:

  • not afraid of moisture;
  • durable;
  • easy to install;
  • economical;
  • not hygroscopic;
  • non-flammable, melts at a temperature of +115 degrees.

On the other hand, the thermal insulation properties of polyethylene are inferior to other materials. For example, if you wrap a pipe in 2-3 layers, then the insulation of the main line is very doubtful. If you wrap 5-8 layers around the pipeline, the material consumption will increase significantly and this method of insulation will not be economical. Perhaps insulating polyethylene will perfectly protect the pipe from corrosion and moisture, but will not save you from heat loss in severe frosts.

Which material is better for pipe insulation: polyurethane foam or mineral wool?

Polyurethane foam insulation (or shell) is specially designed for metal and polymer heating pipes of various diameters. It is a drop-down casing with a layer of dense polyurethane foam several centimeters thick and an outer covering of metal foil. IN finished product lay the pipe and tightly close the edges of the insulation. At the junction there is a self-adhesive tape that tightly closes the seam and prevents the edges from diverging. Insulated pipes look aesthetically pleasing.


Polyurethane foam insulation provides reliable protection polymer and metal pipes from external influence. Today it is the most popular material for insulating heating mains in modern construction.

You can compare polyurethane foam and mineral wool by studying the characteristics given in Table 2.

Polyurethane foam is the same as polyurethane foam, only in liquid form. Therefore, insulation of small sections of pipes can be done by covering them with liquid foam. Freezing polyurethane foam expands, fills the cavities, forming a voluminous casing made of foamed polyurethane. This method can be used to insulate pipes in a basement, apartment or private house. It is especially convenient to foam welding points, bends, that is, those places where they are not used standard methods insulation.

Yulia Petrichenko, expert

Penofol for insulation of highways

Among modern insulating materials, penofol, a polyethylene foam with a layer of aluminum foil as an external protective coating, which provides additional thermal insulation, has received particular sympathy. This roll material, which is cut depending on the diameter of the pipe to be insulated. Penofol is simply wrapped around the line - the material firmly adheres to the surface and becomes one with the pipe. The fabric is flexible and easily takes the shape of pipelines, covering bends and turns.


Along with excellent thermal insulation properties, it has a low cost, which allows it to be used in large-scale projects. Suitable for those who want to insulate a pipeline in an apartment or private house with their own hands. The material is used for insulation, waterproofing of walls, floors, ceilings, installation seams of windows, slopes, etc.

Where is pipe insulation required?

Insulation of heating pipes, hot and cold water necessary if highways run underground, in open space, in the basement or attic of apartment buildings or private houses. Insulation for outdoor heating pipes allows you to cope with many disadvantages physical and chemical properties line material and shortcomings in system installation.

Polymer heating pipes are more resistant to corrosion, but they also require protection from freezing, physical damage, abrasion, etc. Metal pipes, despite their rigidity and strength, they can quickly rust and become unusable. In addition, metal is a conductor of current and has good thermal conductivity, which is a big disadvantage for heating and hot water pipes. Insulation eliminates these disadvantages and preserves the temperature of the coolant. What to use for pipe insulation, everyone decides according to their own capabilities.

Materials that reduce the heat transfer of heating pipes are used everywhere in construction. Today, manufacturers offer a huge range of thermal insulation materials that can be used without special tools and skills.

How much insulation do you provide for the heating system in your own home? What materials do you recommend using when insulating pipes in a private home?

Insulation of water supply pipes in a private house is an important step in creating a comfortable microclimate and reducing the cost of heating premises in private and apartment buildings. In this article we will consider the insulation requirements for polypropylene pipes and whether it is necessary to insulate heating and plumbing.

In private houses, communications have two vulnerable areas for freezing. These areas are located on the street when laying communications from the well to the house or in an unheated basement. If you have not insulated the basement, then it is necessary to protect the pipes in the basement of a private house from heat loss. Let's look at how and how to insulate communications on our own, and tell you what materials to use.

Is it necessary to insulate polypropylene pipes in a private house? If you didn’t do this during construction, then protecting communications from heat loss is simply necessary. If country house rarely used in winter period, then communications can freeze, regardless of what material is used for the water supply pipe - metal-plastic, HDPE or galvanized steel.

How to insulate pipes in a private house with your own hands

When entering cold water pipe V warm room Condensation will always form on it. If the pipe is insulated, you will protect the room from possible dampness. Heating at home also requires thermal insulation, so as not to waste excess heat in a given room, but to redirect it as much as possible to living spaces, reducing your heating costs.

Requirements for insulation for pipe insulation

More recently, any available material was used for pipes - old jackets, cotton blankets, etc. Today the range of insulation is so wide that you can right choice not so simple. Therefore, the most popular materials should be considered, as well as the technological requirements for these materials. Let's look at what to consider when choosing insulation:

  • Duration of operation of the insulating material;
  • Insulation resistance to high humidity and moisture;
  • Fire safety and fire resistance of insulation;
  • Easy installation with the possibility of reuse;
  • Resistance to mechanical and temperature influences;
  • Low cost and availability of pipe insulation.

How to insulate water supply pipes in a private house

Materials used in damp and unheated rooms are subject to a number of requirements: important requirements. The technical and operational characteristics of the insulation must meet the requirements of resistance to chemical and temperature influences. Having dealt with the necessary set of characteristics, let’s proceed to choosing the most inexpensive and optimal pipe insulation.

Glass wool and mineral wool insulation

When working with mineral wool, use gloves and a respirator to protect against microparticles getting on your skin and mucous membranes.

When using mineral wool or glass wool:

  1. Take a roll of insulation and cut small pieces from it.
  2. Wind the basalt insulation onto the pipe and secure it with a nylon rope - tie the rope on one side and wrap it around the insulation in a spiral until the end of the pipe.
  3. Fix roll waterproofing, for example, roofing felt, isolon or foil penofol, on top of the insulation.

Insulation made of polystyrene foam and polyurethane foam

Expanded polystyrene and polyurethane foam shells are often used to insulate pipes in the ground. The insulation is resistant to high humidity, has resistance to mechanical loads. The shell can be reused many times possible repairs systems, and the characteristics meet all requirements. It is optimal to use polyurethane foam shells in country houses.

To use a polyurethane foam “shell,” connect the two halves of the cylinder around the pipe and wrap them with tape. Place the following parts “overlapping” each other. Cylinders made of expanded polystyrene and polyurethane foam can have a layer of foil, which makes them similar in characteristics to a thermos and increases the resistance of the insulation to high humidity. Watch the video comparing the characteristics of pipe insulation.

Polyethylene foam insulation

Insulation for pipes made of foamed polyethylene: penofol or isolon is convenient for installation. The material is easy to secure with foil tape or clamps, it can be easily removed if necessary and can be reused. It is optimal to use polyethylene foam insulation to protect heating pipes in a private house in order to reduce heat loss in basement.

How to insulate pipes in a private house

You should think in advance about how to insulate water supply pipes in a private house, how to insulate columnar foundation and what thermal insulation material to use for different materials. Requirements for the materials used should take into account the ease of installation of insulation, long service life, water-repellent characteristics, environmental and fire safety material.

You should not have any difficulties in your work; anyone can handle this issue. No special skills or special tools are required to insulate pipes. Check out the video instructions at the end of the article on this topic, and you will understand

Owners of private houses often face the problem of insulating communications laid in the basement. Apartment owners are usually not interested in this issue, because... service utility networks Housing and communal services are in charge. However, insulating heating pipes in the basement is an important step that should not be neglected.

The vulnerability of the pipe heating system in unheated basement rooms lies in the risk of freezing and damage to the water supply. In addition, uninsulated communications reduce energy efficiency and increase heating costs.

In this material we will look at how to properly insulate heating pipes in the basement of a house. Nowadays there are many known in various ways insulation, each of which has its own characteristics. Let's take a closer look at all the nuances of such a process as insulating water heating pipes in the basement.

You need to understand that insulated pipeline is a must in the home supply system. Many people are deeply mistaken, claiming that insulation is not a particularly necessary process, because the pipes in which the warm water, so they won’t freeze. This is not a correct statement, since first of all the pipes are insulated to minimize heat loss.

Insulating heating pipes in basements with polyurethane foam is an effective solution

The main requirement for heating pipes is their efficiency. After all, it is this criterion that helps prevent heat loss. During the heating season, the temperature in apartments remains within the average range, but with high-quality insulation, heating efficiency can be increased by several degrees, thereby reducing utility bills. Therefore, insulated pipes in the basement of a private house will not only increase heat, but also save a lot of money.

In addition to all the above requirements, there is one more basic one. All insulated communications must be carried out in full accordance with the technical specifications.

The most effective materials for thermal insulation of pipes, among all existing ones, are:

  1. Minvata;
  2. Polyurethane foam;
  3. Foamed materials;
  4. Liquid materials;
  5. Thermal insulation paint;
  6. Coating thermal insulation;

Minvata

Insulation of heating pipes mineral wool+ foil

This insulation is a combination of a mineral wool shell, polystyrene foam and a foil shell. This insulation considered the most popular among all presented. It has many advantages, including: resistance to chemicals, cost-effectiveness, ease of installation. This material is perfect for insulating external pipelines and for basement communications. The service life of mineral wool is up to 15 years, it all depends on the operating conditions. Installation is not complicated and will take little time; installation can be done by yourself. It is enough to wrap the pipe with material and secure it securely. There are two types of this material:

  • basalt wool;
  • glass wool

The latter is used more often, since its production is simpler, and a more affordable price allows you to fully purchase the material for complete insulation of the pipeline system.

Polyurethane foam (PPU)

PPU shell for pipe insulation

This is a material that provides reliable insulation of pipes, even in the most severe frosts. It is less popular than mineral wool, but is just as often used. Polyurethane foam ensures minimal heat loss in communications. The main advantages of PPU can be noted: environmental safety for others, reliability, resistance to any harsh climatic influences, resistance to mechanical stress, as well as electrical neutrality.

Another excellent addition to all the advantages is the high resistance to corrosion on steel pipes. The only significant drawback is the high cost. But it is completely justified by the presence of a large number of advantages.

Polymer foam materials

This group of insulation materials includes materials that best play the role of an insulator in the basement of a residential building. The best foam materials are:

Insulation of heating pipes with polystyrene foam

  • foam rubber - has unique elasticity and has increased resistance to temperature changes, it does not burn and therefore is most often used in rooms with increased level fire hazard;
  • foamed polyethylene (Penofol, Izolon, etc.) is a substance that is used for internal insulation of communications in the basement; it also has excellent heat-resistant qualities and is completely safe for human health. It is a material in the form of a hollow tube with a cut.
  • expanded polystyrene is one of the insulating foam materials that has a long service life. Expanded polystyrene for pipe insulation consists of cylindrical parts with reliable protrusions for fastening.
  • Foamed glass is a material that is rarely used, but has a number of advantages: it has high resistance to mechanical stress and is difficult to deform.

Liquid materials

Applying polyurethane foam to heating pipes

This type of pipe insulation is quite common and inexpensive. In some cases, liquid insulation can be more effective than polyurethane or foam insulation. In addition to the fact that such a material retains heat well, it also plays the role of an inhibitor, that is, it stops the occurrence of corrosion. At high temperatures liquid insulation does not lend itself to any deformation. In addition to all of the above, it is worth noting that this material also gives the pipe a pleasant, aesthetic appearance.

Thermal insulation paint

Ultra-thin insulation in the form of paint for heating pipes

This paint makes it possible to achieve even higher efficiency than mineral wool wrapping. One layer of heat-insulating paint can be equal to five centimeters of polyurethane. It is worth noting the cost-effectiveness and high environmental friendliness of the material.

Coating liquid thermal insulation

When using coating-type liquid thermal insulation, you must strictly consider external factors, such as weather and climate. When applying thermal insulation, you need to make sure that the ambient temperature does not drop below +7 degrees Celsius. Operating temperature, after the material has completely dried, reaches up to +200 degrees, and minimum temperature should not be less than -60 degrees Celsius.

With proper operation and compliance with all rules, you can achieve a working life of up to 15 years, which is considered an excellent indicator. I would like to note two important factors: environmental friendliness and efficiency.

The process of applying insulation is simply simple. First you need to arm yourself the right material in certain quantities. Next comes the surface preparation stage, followed by material preparation, and finally application.

Stages of applying thermal insulation:

  1. Surface preparation. This stage is considered one of the most important, because preparing the pipe involves completely cleaning the surface from mechanical particles and moisture. In simple words, we clean all dust, dirt from the pipe, and also remove moisture;
  2. Preparation of material. At this stage mixing is carried out liquid substance. Remember that this is not paint, that is, it is in no case recommended to dilute the material;
  3. Application. The mixed liquid must be applied to a previously cleaned pipeline. To do this, take a brush and apply the material to the entire surface area. This should be done in at least two layers, or even three. Before applying each subsequent layer of thermal insulation, allow the previous one to dry.

At least this one liquid material and environmental, it is still recommended to wear protective gloves and goggles when working with it. Provide good lighting at the workplace in order to evenly apply insulation over the entire area. Valves and other moving parts should not be treated, because after drying a dense crust forms, which in the future will become a problem when unscrewing or tightening the valves.

Other materials for pipe insulation

In addition to all the above materials, I would like to note another material that is also often used as thermal insulation. This insulator consists of cement-sand plaster, and was applied over a chain-link mesh. The main advantage of this material is that it perfectly protects the pipeline from precipitation. In addition, it is an absolutely environmentally friendly and inexpensive material.