Can You Put Loft Insulation Over Pipes?

CONTENTS

• Should you lay loft insulation on pipes?
• The benefits of pipe lagging
• How to insulate pipes
• Why you should bring in thermal insulation professionals
• Book your thermal insulation installation today

Loft insulation poses many benefits for homeowners including reducing heat loss, unlocking energy savings, and improving the value of a property. However, many that look into insulating their property are unsure of whether you can lay loft insulation over pipes or should insulate pipes separately. 

Here at ICE Thermal, our loft insulation installation services can unlock all the benefits of insulation for your home. Our expert engineers can devise a bespoke solution for your loft and pipework, and give you peace of mind your home is insulated in the most effective way.

Keep reading to find out if you can lay insulation over pipes. 

Should you lay loft insulation on pipes?

Pipes that run through your loft need special consideration during the insulation process. Properly insulating pipes in the loft prevents them from freezing during cold weather, and helps maintain the efficiency of your water supply and heating systems. 

While it may seem practical to cover these pipes with loft insulation material directly, this approach requires careful planning and execution. It is not an effective way to insulate pipes either; they will require proper pipe insulation (known as lagging) to keep them protected against cold temperatures. 

To ensure optimal performance and safety, thermal insulation professionals should always be consulted for such installations. These experts understand how to balance your effective loft insulation while ensuring that pipes will not freeze or overheat.

Condensation can also form on non-insulated pipes which will make the loft insulation damp. Some materials, like fibreglass, are not moisture-resistant and when they get damp become at-risk of mould growth. 

If you do lay loft insulation over pipes, make sure you put some signage in place so people do not accidentally kneel on them in the future.

The benefits of pipe lagging

Pipe lagging involves wrapping your pipes with insulation which can significantly reduce heat loss. By maintaining your water at a steady warmth, loft pipe insulation not only saves power but also protects the pipes from freezing during colder months which can lead to them bursting.

Lagging can reduce the noise produced by your plumbing system, too. As water moves through uninsulated pipes, it can make them expand and contract loudly. Insulating these pipes dampens this sound, making your home more peaceful.

How to insulate pipes

Although you can insulate your pipes yourself, it is recommended you bring in thermal insulation professionals to ensure it is done in the most effective way. Lagging can also be a complex process that requires some specialist knowledge. 

To effectively insulate your loft's piping system without compromising its efficiency or safety you will need to:

• Choose insulation material designed for high temperatures if hot water runs through the pipes you want to insulate
• Cover all exposed areas of the pipes as any gaps in coverage could lead to heat loss
• Keep access points clear for maintenance purposes by strategically placing removable segments of insulation where necessary

Why you should bring in thermal insulation professionals

Firstly, incorrect installation could have detrimental effects on the effectiveness of the insulation, the pipes' operation, and their integrity. 

Thermal insulation installers will know what kind of insulation material is best for your loft and your pipes, and will be able to install it in a precise manner that optimises performance while avoiding overheating. They will select materials that are suited to your pipes and will also be durable under the various conditions in your loft space.

Assessments carried out by professionals may reveal hidden issues, such as moisture build-up or ventilation needs, which you may overlook, too.

Professionals have the training and expertise to install insulation safely around electrical fixtures and hot water pipes, as well. Installing the insulation material yourself could put you at risk of burns or electrocution. 

Expert installation ensures that your loft's thermal barrier is continuous, avoiding heat leaks which can occur through improper DIY attempts and render the insulation solution ineffective. 

Book your thermal insulation installation today

No matter where you are in the UK, we can devise a bespoke insulation solution for your specific needs. We offer a wide range of other thermal insulation services, as well, including acoustic insulation installation and trace heat installation.

To learn more about our loft insulation installation services, get in touch with our team on 020 3376 4802 or email [email protected].