Polyethylene Pipe Lagging: Frost Protection & Energy Savings with Tubolit and Climaflex
Polyethylene foam pipe lagging is a closed-cell insulation that delivers excellent thermal performance, moisture resistance and ease of installation. Its durable foam structure prevents water ingress and condensation, minimising heat loss on hot water pipes and protecting cold water lines from freezing. Lightweight and flexible, it can be slit and applied directly over pipes, making it popular for both DIY and professional projects.
Tubolit Polyethylene Pipe Lagging
Tubolit, manufactured by Armacell in the UK, is a 100% non-particulating closed-cell polyethylene foam designed for domestic and light-commercial pipe insulation. Key benefits include:
- Ready-to-split tubes for quick, tool-free installation
- Thermal conductivity of 0.036 W/m·K at 0 °C
- Service temperature up to +100 °C
- Resistant to mould, mildew, oils and grease
- Improves acoustic comfort by dampening operational noise
Typical wall thicknesses range from 9 mm to 25 mm, covering pipe bores from 10 mm up to 76 mm.
Climaflex Polyethylene Pipe Lagging
Climaflex, produced in South Wales by NMC (UK) Ltd, offers a cost-efficient closed-cell polyethylene foam with:
- Thermal conductivity as low as 0.036 W/m·K at 0 °C
- Temperature range from –45 °C to +105 °C
- Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) Zero
- Sound-absorbing properties that reduce “pop and flow” noises in plumbing
- Available in 9 mm, 13 mm, 19 mm and 25 mm wall thicknesses for pipe bores up to 76 mm
Climaflex combines performance and affordability, making it ideal for both professional installers and homeowners.
Frost Protection: Correct Thicknesses
To prevent pipe freezing in typical UK domestic settings, the following minimum insulation wall thicknesses are recommended under “normal conditions”:
- 15 mm pipe: 25 mm insulation
- 22 mm pipe: 19 mm insulation
- 28 mm pipe: 19 mm insulation
- 35 mm pipe: 13 mm insulation
Using these thicknesses in loft spaces or unheated areas significantly delays freezing and reduces the risk of burst pipes.
Domestic Energy Savings on Heating Pipework
Lagging hot water and heating pipes conserves energy by keeping fluid temperatures higher for longer. Studies show pipe lagging can maintain water temperature approximately 2 °C hotter than uninsulated pipes, lowering the energy required to reheat water. Climaflex claims up to 80% reduction in heat loss for central heating installations, translating into lower fuel bills and reduced carbon emissions.
Additional Applications
Beyond frost protection and energy conservation, polyethylene lagging offers:
- Acoustic damping in apartments or offices to muffle flow noise
- Condensation control on cold-water pipes, preventing drips and mould growth
- Easy retrofitting in cavity walls and under floors for overall home insulation
- Short-term external protection (with added UV-resistant cladding), e.g. in lofts or exterior runs (though polyethylene may degrade in direct sunlight)
Polyethylene pipe lagging from UK-made brands Tubolit and Climaflex provides a versatile solution for frost protection, heating-system efficiency and noise control. By selecting the correct thickness and following installation best practices, homeowners and professionals can safeguard plumbing, save energy and enhance comfort.
Visit our Complete Guide to Pipe Insulation to Learn More about the different types of product we have on offer