Insulation for 3/4\" copper in crawl spaces?

JOHN K

How do you like to insulate 3/4" copper supplies and returns in unheated crawl spaces. Just some foam tubeing? Or the preformed fiberglass pipe jackets, or something else?

Constantin

If it's water, not steam...

.. you can use foam-based tubular insulation, which is usually easier than fiberglass to apply. I would go to a local supply house and get 1" thick stuff, as Home Despot and Lowe's usually do not carry insulation that thick. There are many brands to choose from, I'd simply go for one that has a pre-installed glue strip to make application easier.

JOHN K

Do you think it is worth wraping it a second time when the a crawl space is basicly the same as the outside temp? Thanks

Constantin

From my reading at buildingscience.com,

your best bet probably is to isolate and insulate the crawlspace.

Take a look though the homeowners at Building Science Corporation and then make up your own mind. I find their argument to (at the bery least) seal off the crawlspaces, putting down a vapor barrier, and insulating the walls to be a very compelling argument. Ideally, you'd insulate the floor as well. Then, the need to insulate your pipes with thick insulation diminishes.

RMA

why twice?

if you use 1" insulation you spend less time in the crawl space.
I think ridgid preformed fiberglass with preformed zeston fittings is a much tighter job