Pipe insulation (and any alternatives to fiberglass?)

msmor23

Hi- I need to insulate some of the pipes in basement for my one pipe steam system. Like most, I'm trying to save a buck so curious if there are any cheaper alternatives to the fiberglass pipe insulation. I have about 100' I need to insulate (1.75 OD).

I know the grey foam tubes aren't any good for steam pipes.

Also- any ideas on insulating pipes located within a chase? Without ripping apart the chase or walls?

Thanks for the help

EBEBRATT-Ed

Really fiberglass is the only choice although I have seen some with green insulation more like mineral wool but I doubt it's any cheaper.

Access to the bottom or top of the chase you may be able to slide it on but if you have fittings in the way there are no tricks

Check to make sure you pipes are pitched right and have enough hangers before you insulate

mattmia2

What about dumping or blowing loose fill in to the chase and insulating the whole chase?

Hap_Hazzard

Some people have used regular fiberglass insulation or duct wrap as a low-buck alternative and just wrapped it around their pipes and taped it. Not worth the frustration if you ask me, and it isn't going to look great, but it should provide decent insulation.

gfrbrookline

What about old fashion newspaper?

EBEBRATT-Ed

No, not newspaper it burns. Filling the chase with fiberglass will work

STEAM DOCTOR

Dont think that newspaper is great idea but wont burn unless its 451 degrees farenheit

ethicalpaul

I bet Ed didn't mean it would burn from the steam, I bet he meant it would make a house fire much worse if one were to occur.

Edit: plus it's a horrible insulator!

exqheat

2-3 inch fiberglass is great. Get a piece and put it on a pipe. If the outside is not hot it is working. I find 2 inch just great. Keep it tight on the pipe with zip ties.

msmor23

Thanks for the help & suggestions.