2 Fast, Cheap Ways To Insulate Your Pipes Before A Cold Snap Hits

If the forecast in your area has changed drastically, you may be facing a night below-freezing weather. To keep your pipes from freezing and bursting, try insulating them with one of these fast, inexpensive insulation methods.

Wrap Your Pipes With Bubble Wrap

The pockets between the bubbles in bubble wrap trap air, providing an insulated cushion between your pipes and the frigid air. You will also need two-inch wide plastic packing tape for this method.

Starting at one end of your pipe, tape down one end of the bubble wrap. Then, wrap the pipe with the roll, overlapping the edges by two inches so there is no gap between the layers. 

After you have reached the other end of the pipe, secure the other end of the wrap with a piece of tape. Then, seal all edges of the bubble wrap with the tape to seal them completely. If desired, drape an old blanket over the pipe to provide an extra layer of warmth.

Use Old Towels As Insulation

If you do not have any bubble wrap on hand, you can use old towels as insulation. When you use them, however, you will need to first wrap a layer of plastic wrap around your pipes. This will keep any moisture from condensation away from the fabric where it could cause mold or mildew growth.

Along with the towels and plastic wrap, you will need a roll of two-inch plastic tape or duct tape. To keep the towels in place, you can opt to use twine or yarn.

Use the plastic wrap to wrap two layers around the pipe, then secure the edges with the plastic or duct tape. Then, lay a towel lengthwise on the pipe and wrap it around the surface. Secure the ends towel around the pipe with the tape, twine, or yarn.

If you need another towel, repeat the instructions above. Make sure you overlap the towels by two inches. When you are finished wrapping the towels around the pipes, use the tape to seal off all edges and openings to prevent an exchange of warm and cold air. Although plastic tape will work for this part, the duct tape will hold up better on the fabric.

Using one of the above will provide you with emergency insulation when an unexpected cold snap hits. However, if you want to find a more permanent option for protecting your pipes, you may want to contact a plumbing contractor like the Plumb Perfect Plumbers to discuss your situation.

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