Thermal pipe insulation has an important role in preventing condensation on cold or chilling pipes. Condensation can cause pipes to corrode and rust prematurely, leading to leaks in the piping or pipe fittings. Leaking pipes may result in safety hazards (such as puddles on the floor), and cause damage to a building’s structure and contents. It can also create conditions for mould growth, creating health hazards for building occupants.

In some locations, pipes are exposed to extremes of temperature both inside and outside a building. In very cold environments, the water running through those pipes can freeze, expanding the pipes and causing the pipe system to fail. Pipe insulation increases the time it takes for a pipe to freeze in cold conditions, reducing the risk of compromising the pipe system.

Heat loss occurs when there’s a significant difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature inside the pipe. Thermal pipe insulation creates thermal resistance and reduces the heat flow and therefore the loss of energy. In extreme temperatures, thicker insulation will help prevent unnecessary cooling or the loss of both heat and energy. In well-insulated buildings, there’s less need for thermal pipe insulation.

Pipework is made for conditions of extreme temperatures. But unless pipe surfaces are protected by insulation, they can be hazardous to touch. Insulating pipes will help minimise the risk of workplace burns by absorbing the surface heat of pipe systems.

Pipework can carry disturbing noise from one part of a building to another (in the case of waste-water pipework routed within a building, for example). Acoustic insulation, such as pipe lagging, can reduce the transfer of noise (vibration). Acting as a high-density sound barrier, use pipe insulation in ductwork, valves, fan housings and all types of pipes within buildings.