pipe condensation

solderman

For a long cold water supply running overhead in the basement, would it be necessary to prepare for condensation on that pipe. The temp coming in has to be around 50 to 55 deg. I assume with humidity in the summer around 60% that vapor could condense on it. I plan to drywall soon and am running out of time and I would prefer not to insulate that pipe if possible. If it does condense would it amount to anything. Nothing like discolorations on the basement ceiling from water drops if it really was a ential problem.
Thank You

jim lockard

I do not

understand why you would not insulate? Could not take that long or cost that much could it. What if all your hard work has to be riped out just because you could not take the time to do the job right. Best wishes J.Lockard

Mark Wolff

Insulation

Yes you should insulate the line. The condensation will be less in the floor joists with the drywall covering it, but moisture still will gather on the outside of the pipe, drip onto the sheetrock and stain it.

Earthfire

M

as in Mold. Mold is the stain that you see over a period of time growing in the gypsum. Insulate ,it cheap insurance

heretic

Substantial

The amount of water involved here can be substantial. As you mention, it depends upon relative ambient conditions.
The worst case scenario in a basement is when the space is opened up to hot/humid outdoor air in the summer.

Some folks think by opening basement windows (or foundation vents), the basement will dry out, but the opposite is true in the summer.