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Heating systems for buildings and homes require a fair amount of pipework. These pipes will necessitate pipe cover for a number of very important reasons. Pipework for home radiators, for example, run from a central boiler or water heater usually located in the basement or an external shed and channelled to the different rooms where the radiators are situated. Using a pipe cover to shield the pipework has long been a standard practice and goes a long way in ensuring the radiators work at their optimum.
Some radiator providers include pipe cover installation as part of their services. Mostly this is an add-on service and would of course require extra cost. Nonetheless, pipe cover placement is well worth the additional expense as the following discussion will show.
Advantages of Using Pipe Covers
Whilst the pipes used in radiator-based heating systems can be run into wall panels or pre-installed within concrete dividers during construction of the house, installation of radiators are more commonly performed post-construction or often relocated during renovation work. Hence, the pipework will usually be exposed.
Unless the residents have a desire to have the house resemble a plumber’s lair, the use of a covers will provide the necessary aesthetics to make the home look more homely. Pipe enclosures are therefore essential in concealing heating pipes and lend to a more appealing presentation of living spaces.
But coverings for pipes are not just for hiding unsightly pipes. The pipe cover is also primarily for protection and safety purposes. Firstly, it protects the pipes themselves from being subject to early corrosion. Pipes left to the elements can rust easily or otherwise be damaged. Using quality pipe protection will prevent that.
Besides this, the pipe cover also protects people from burns suffered if they accidentally get in contact with the heating pipes. In fact, pipe cover used over the years has been highly instrumental in keeping to minimum pipe-related burn injuries in homes and public places.
MATERIALS USED ON PIPE COVERS
Pipe casings come in a wide variety of profiles, colours, and materials. At this time, let us first focus on the materials used.
First, there is the basic plywood cover. It is relatively inexpensive and can be applied a different finish to achieve any desired effect. Melamine laminates are a fairly common finish for ply-based covers. Wood veneer also works for traditional homes with that hardwood look.
A chrome finished metal pipe cover is very appropriate for locations where exposed pipework is expected such as in bathrooms, laundry areas and kitchens. Brushed stainless steel or aluminium may also be used as alternatives.
Other substances used in pipe cover installations include pre-formed polymer panels and pipes that use thermoplastic technology. The advantage of polymer-based materials is that they are highly impact resistant and relatively easy to clean. Of interesting note are pipe cover materials that are coated with special anti-microbial finishing. These are best for public places that demand a significant degree of sanitation such as hospitals and elderly homes.