PEX - using both insulation and clips

  • Context: Plumbing 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Stephen Tashi
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the best practices for insulating and supporting PEX water lines using pipe clips. Participants explore the similarities and differences in insulation techniques compared to traditional copper pipes.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the best method to support and insulate PEX, suggesting that insulation might be placed over the pipe before clipping, especially for larger diameters.
  • Another participant questions whether the insulation method is specific to PEX, proposing that it could be similar to that used for copper pipes.
  • A clarification is made that the question is indeed specific to PEX, noting that copper and steel pipes do not require clamping over short runs and do not need UV protection.
  • It is suggested that there is no reason to insulate PEX differently than copper, recommending insulation first and using J-hooks or notching at joints, similar to copper practices.
  • A question is raised regarding the availability of insulation types that protect against UV for any pipe.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether insulation practices for PEX should align with those for copper pipes. While some suggest similarities, others highlight specific considerations for PEX.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not fully resolve the question of insulation methods, particularly regarding UV protection and clamping distances, indicating a need for further exploration of these aspects.

Stephen Tashi
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TL;DR
How should we insulate PEX that also needs to be held with clips?
If a run of PEX water line needs to be periodically supported with pipe clips and also insulated, what's a good way to do this? - put the insulation over the pipe before clipping it and use clips for large diameter pipes?
 
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Is your question specific to PEX? Why wouldn’t you insulate in an identical way as you would copper pipes?
 
chemisttree said:
Is your question specific to PEX? Why wouldn’t you insulate in an identical way as you would copper pipes?

The question is specific to PEX in the sense that PEX is what I'm using. Copper and steel pipes don't need to be clamped over short runs. Also, copper and steel pipes don't need a covering to protect them from UV light.
 
So, clamping distances aside, there’s no reason to insulate any differently than copper pipe. Insulate first and hang on J-hooks or notch at the joints and glue pieces of insulation at the joints, just like copper.
Is there any type of insulation for any pipe that doesn’t also protect against UV?
 

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