Pipe Covers & Clips

It is all in the name; these cover to conceal, protect, and tidy exposed pipework. They are as protective as they are decorative and often go unseen but would be noticed if they were missing! Sometimes called sleeves of shrouds, pipe clips hide unsightly plumbing pipes (copper, steel, or plastic) and provide a clean-looking professional finish. They are just as likely to appear in commercial settings as they are in homes. We only sell plastic pipe clips here at Plumbing World, but metal clips are also available.

Our plastic pipe covers are usually snap-on and will last for many years once installed. Pipe covers are often used around radiator pipes, toilet pipework, and visible plumbing beneath sinks. Pipe trunking is a form of pipe cover that is channel-shaped and provides a streamlined look. In addition to visual improvement, pipe covers help protect pipes from minor knocks, dust build-up, and moisture exposure. They also make cleaning easier by creating a smooth, finished surface around visible plumbing.

What are pipe clips?

Also sometimes referred to as pipe clamps or pipe fixings, these are used to securely fasten pipes to walls, ceilings, or floors. Pipe clips are widely used in plumbing, heating and electrical projects to prevent pipe sagging and moving while still enabling thermal expansion. Frequently used in both domestic and industrial settings, pipe clips are used to secure copper, plastic, and steel pipework.

Primarily used for a securing function, pipe clips have an aesthetic role as they keep installations neat and aligned. They need to be evenly spaced to ensure they clip to the right extent. Metal pipe clips are available, although we sell plastic pipe clips here at Plumbing World. We have a large selection available, so you can buy a clip to match the diameter of your pipe (e.g. 15mm pipe clips). We have single and double pipe clips available, which can be attached with screws.

Pipe Cover vs trunking – the differences

In the following table, we contrast the differences between pipe covers and pipe trunking.

FAQs

1. What are the benefits of using pipe clips?

The main benefits of using pipe clips are:

• Cost-effective - the ROI is massive, with the minimal cost of pipe clips preventing expensive pipe repairs in the medium-long term

• Pipe longevity - undoubtedly pipes will last longer when securely clipped, and maintenance demands will be lower too

• Safety and risk mitigation - these low-cost clips reduce the risks of accidents, leaks, and spills caused by pipe collapses

• Size variety - there is a wide variety of pipe clip sizes to meet all pipe widths

• Support and stability - their primary benefit is to securely fasten pipes

• Thermal movement - pipes need to allow pipes to thermally expand and contract with temperature changes, which pipe clips enable

• Vibration and noise reduction - insecure pipes will vibrate more and cause noise, which is minimised if not eliminated by clipping

2. Why do you need clips for pipe work?

For the benefits listed above, pipe clips can be seen as being ESSENTIAL for any type of pipework. They reduce movement, noise, vibration, and maintain correct pipe alignment. Reducing joint and fitting strain over time, pipe clips will also increase the lifespan of the pipe. Although not primarily designed for aesthetics, they will also improve the pipe's appearance by keeping the installation looking tidy.

3. Are 15mm pipe clips a popular size?

Yes. We find 15mm pipe clips (like Hidapipe Single Clip 15mm and Hidapipe Double Pipe Clip 15mm are popular. This is because in UK plumbing, 15 mm is the most common pipe diameter used for domestic cold and hot water supply runs, radiator feeds, and many indoor services. 15mm pipe clips sized to match that diameter provide a secure and reliable fixing. Other popular clip sizes we stock include 8mm, 10mm, and 22mm.

4. Can plastic pipe clips withstand high temperatures?

Yes, plastic pipe clips can withstand some heat without suffering damage, but only if the quality of the material is good and it is being used in the right situation. Standard pipe clips made from polypropylene or nylon are usually good enough for most homes with domestic hot water and central heating. Most can handle temperatures up to about 80 to 90 degrees Celsius without any problems.

If you are working close to a boiler or a heat source, you may need to use a heavier-duty metal alternative or a couple of reinforced pipe collars to be safe. For most of the time, though, plastic pipe clips are fine; they are still the “norm” for use as radiator pipe covers, where you just need to keep pipes looking tidy, and the pipe work is not getting excessively hot.

5. Can pipe covers prevent freezing?

Partially. Pipe covers are a quick and easy solution to help protect pipes. We recommend, though, that they be used in addition to a layer of insulation products. Pipe covers on their own undoubtedly slow heat loss and keep water temperatures above freezing for longer periods. They probably will not be enough to prevent pipes from freezing in extreme temperatures, though. This is especially the case as a solution for pipes located in lofts, garages, and external walls.

6. These are so low-cost, how do I know they are durable?

We should not associate price with durability. In the case of plastic pipe clips, their reason for existence is to securely hold pipes in the long-term. Our plastic clips are manufactured from top-quality high-grade polypropylene or nylon, which are designed to resist cracking, corrosion, and moisture absorption. Manufacturers test clips to securely hold pipes even in extremes of temperature or where there is a high level of vibration.

So, why not choose to add some plastic clips for pipe work from our range to your cart today?