I have installed a 6" pipe around an outside faucet, what would be a good insulator to fill the pipe with?

Question

I have been told that sand would work just fine and it would also help protect and support the pipe. What do you think?

Answer 1

Sand would be great for insulation... there should be plenty of room with the 6" pipe.....

I would make sure all the pipe is covered with the sand , as to make sure there are no air pockets.....

Good job....

Answer 2

Not sure if you mean 6" diameter or 6" long pipe. You want to allow movement of the pipe so it is not rubbing against an abrasive material. I would use the foam insulation that comes in a can. Be careful when using this product as it expands fast and you don't want to overdo it. Nice thing is that you can remove excess with a utility knife or hacksaw blade after it drys. Wear the plastic gloves that come with the insulation. I got this stuff on my hands and it is a bear to get off. After reading other answers, I am now wondering if this pipe is IN the ground. If so, use Armaflex rubber pipe insulation on the water pipe and then you can fill with sand. The Armaflex will protect the pipe from abrasion.

Answer 3

First of all, I hope that the pipe will not oxidize. To insulate it wrap it in fiberglass, covering it with plastic to keep moisture from it, then cover with light gravel and sod over it. The gravel works better than sand, because rain and melting snow will penetrate into the ground not allowing any ice build-up.

Answer 4

i would take the packing peanits from a packing crate they allow little air spaces between increaseing the insulative effect ever heard of layering clothing same effect & the material is used in insulation in coolers etc already , tom

Answer 5

vermiculite - is it very wet?