External Pipe Insulation

What external pipe insulation covers

External pipework is more exposed to rapid temperature drops, so it needs insulation that fits properly and stands up to the weather. This service is designed to protect vulnerable sections and improve reliability through winter.

• Insulating exposed cold water pipework outside the property
• Insulating pipe runs to garages, outbuildings and garden offices
• Protecting external stop valves, isolation valves and accessible fittings
• Insulating outdoor taps, where suitable, with purpose-made covers or lagging
• Replacing damaged or missing lagging on existing installations
• Weatherproof finishing where needed (for example UV-resistant covering and secure fixing)
• Basic checks for leaks or weaknesses on the exposed section before insulating

When this service is most useful

External pipe insulation is a practical choice if you have:

• An outdoor tap that froze last winter or is hard to turn off
• Pipework running along an outside wall or under a suspended area
• A water feed to an outbuilding that is intermittently used
• Recently repaired external pipework that is now exposed
• Concerns about winter reliability for tenants or business premises

How the service is delivered

The work is usually completed in a single visit, depending on access and how much pipework is exposed.

• Identify at-risk external sections and confirm what can be insulated effectively
• Measure pipe sizes and select insulation suited to the location
• Prepare the pipework (clean, dry, and check fixings)
• Fit insulation neatly around bends, valves and joints, and secure it
• Apply weather protection where required and confirm taps and valves operate correctly

Aftercare and ongoing protection

Insulation reduces risk, but extreme cold can still cause issues in certain conditions. You will get clear guidance on simple winter precautions, what to do during a cold snap, and when insulation should be checked or replaced (for example after storms, building work, or UV damage).