Most people have heard of insulated ceilings and pipes, but damaged insulation around the home is probably something you are not aware of. Many older homes don’t have it installed properly and damage can occur, leading to problems down the road.
The most common form of damaged pipe insulation is “dry rot.” This is where the insulating material itself begins to decay, causing cracks to form in it. When it gets too hot, the affected material expands and when it cools down, it contracts.
Insulation around piping or chimneys can also be damaged. It is the normal process for piping to expand and contract when there is high humidity. This process happens because of evaporation from the heat that the piping produces.
Pipe insulation around vents or other fireplaces can also be damaged by high heat. Hot air rises, so as the temperature inside the home increases, the amount of air entering the home also increases. This causes the insulation to expand and shrink, causing it to become cracked.
Smoke and heat cause many things to happen within a house. The pipes and other appliances will eventually rust, causing them to fail, making repairs more difficult. Smoke and heat can also cause condensation, which can build up and lead to structural problems.
One of the ways your home can cool off is by getting rid of the cold air. High humidity can be the culprit, causing piping and insulation to expand and contract. For this reason, heating your home can actually cool it off because of the water vapor and the heat from the sun, which adds to the overall effect.
To combat the effects of pipe rust, simply use a rubber glove to wipe away any excess moisture. You can even remove any dirt or grime with a scrub brush. Using wood polish on the pipe insulator will help it last longer. Ensure that the entire pipe is dry and clear of any debris before you touch it.
Warm it up before you turn on the water. While you can’t control what is happening outside, you can control how well your home is insulated. Do this by adding insulation to each of the pipes that surround the water heater, including the cold water pipes.
The water heater should also be checked at least once a year. If you find the pipes and water heater are damaged, it’s time to replace them. If you have pipes from the house that were laid before the 1980s, they should still be able to be installed, but be very careful that they are coated in some sort of material.
Pipe corrosion is a big problem. Corrosion damages the insulation by eating away at it. It’s not something that can be avoided, but the best way to protect your piping is to treat it before the damage occurs.
Pipe sealants are available in most hardware stores and they should be applied directly to the surface of the pipe. If the sealant doesn’t adhere well, simply run it over it with a paintbrush. This will allow it to penetrate into the crack and protect the piping from further damage. If you don’t see any evidence of pipe damage, you’re lucky. If there is rust or corrosion that is left behind, it is best to remove it with Insulation Removal Perth. The use of a wire brush is necessary as it will get into the wood and attack the insulation.
