4

I have steam pipes behind a wall that I loosely packed R30 batt insulation against. Is there a possibility that the insulation will ignite?

2 Answers 2

2

Maximum temperature of a household steam system is all of 250F, so not even paper will ignite from contact with steam pipes in a house (15PSI) boiler system. High pressure steam is not found in houses (in modern times - early systems were very dangerous) unless they are in major violation of a lot of codes and safety standards that would be of far more concern than the insulation used.

"Batt" insulation is typically either fiberglass or mineral wool and thus not flammable anyway. Even cellulose (paper fibers) insulation is treated to reduce the threat of fire, and again, 250F will not ignite it anyway.

1

In general terms no. The standard steam pipe insulation used today is shaped fiberglass tubes. I would have suggested installing conventional fiberglass pipe insulation on the pipes prior to insulating the walls. I feel that trying to get batt insulation around the pipes could leave voids.

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.