Insulating both hot and cold water pipes is fairly simple with products marketed today, and there are several very good reasons to protect them. Insulation stops cold water pipes from sweating when moisture in the air condenses on their cold surfaces and drips in problem areas. It prevents hot water from losing its heat as it flows through the pipes from the hot water heater to upstairs bathrooms and laundry areas. Lastly, insulation ensures that pipes running through unheated crawl spaces do not freeze and burst in winter's chill. In the steps below, this tool tip presents several of the available options among insulating products. All are available at your home improvement store.

Provide a higher insulation value--down to -297 degrees Fahrenheit--by using flexible elastomeric insulation. Its application on air conditioning and cold water pipes is of particular value. The product features the same type of self-sealing adhesive. Some products also have an antimicrobial compound that protects against mold. Most tubular insulation products offer easy installation because you can cut the ends and butt them together to make a mitered corner on a variety of pipe configurations.