Prepare for winter | United Utilities

Insulating your water pipes will protect them from freezing, bursting and flooding your home.

A Step-by-Step Guide for Lagging your Pipes

Lagging – or insulating – pipes around your home is a simple DIY project. We’ve broken the process down into easy steps.

Don’t lag behind

Wrap your pipes with lagging to prevent them from freezing (or even bursting) this winter. Pay attention to the pipes in the garage, loft, or those outside your home, as these are the ones most likely to freeze when the temperature drops.

Your local DIY store should have everything you need and don’t forget to use waterproof lagging for outdoor pipes.

More ways you can prepare

Make sure you have details to hand of who you need to contact if you have a burst so you can get this repaired as soon as possible. You can find a local plumber at www.watersafe.org.uk. Alternatively, visit our need a plumber page for more information.
You can find weather updates for your area at metoffice.gov.uk.

You can also find the Met Office's advice for winter here: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/seasonal-advice/your-home/protecting-your-property-from-winter-weather.
If you're away from your home for long periods of time it is advised to keep your heating on low to avoid pipes in your house from freezing or bursting.
Have you experienced an increase in your bill or a drop in water pressure? Both could be early signs of a leak in your water pipework and should be investigated. It pays to make sure your pipework is in good condition before any cold snap arrives.