How to Insulate Pipes for Sound in an Open Basement

Wrapping the Pipes

• 1

  Measure the circumference of the pipes and add 2 to 4 inches to that measurement so you can overlap the edges of the insulation material.

• 2

  Cut strips of the acoustical pipe lagging to fit the measurements with a utility knife. This is a vinyl noise barrier with foil facing attached to a foam material that absorbs sound.

• 3

  Place one end of the lagging on the pipe and tape it to the pipe with foil lag tape.

• 4

  Wrap the lagging around the pipe and tape it in place.

• 5

  Install lagging on the next section of pipe, overlapping the edge of the first section by 2 inches. Continue installing the lagging onto the pipe, using the same technique.

• 6

  Cover the joints where the different sections of lagging meet with foil lag tape.

Spray Foam Insulation

• 7

  Connect the hoses for the foam to the tanks. The tanks contain the chemicals that will become the foam insulation when they react upon contact.

• 8

  Apply the foam insulation by aiming the nozzle at one end of the pipe and pulling the trigger. Move the nozzle back-and-forth in an area that is 3 to 4 feet wide. Continue applying the foam in 3 to 4 foot sections.

• 9

  Inspect the area where you sprayed the foam after it has expanded and hardened, which takes about 5 minutes. Add more foam to areas where the pipe is exposed or the layer of insulation is thinner than in other areas.

• 10

  Trim away excess foam with a knife or drywall saw after it has hardened to clean up its appearance.