The Evolution of Pipesnug
The Evolution of PipeSnug as covered in PHPI
PipeSnug is the first and only complete repair solution for pipework. Now celebrating its fifth anniversary, PipeSnug is a quick and simple method to seal a hole where a pipe exits the wall.
Chris Burdet and Alex Lever talked about how the product was created and how it has evolved over time in an interview with PHPI. Here is a snapshot of some of the topics that were discussed in the interview.
How did the idea come about?
The Pipesnug concept first came to mind when Chris was out on-site preparing to mortar around a waste pipe.
“I realised a simple fitting would save so much time in mixing mortar or siliconing around the pipe, as well as blending into the fabric of the building visually,” said Chris.
How long was the development process?
It took about 12 to 18 months for Pipesnug to be launched, during which time there were frequent changes made so that the product met the required quality standard.
“In this time we were refining the design, testing prototypes and finding the right suppliers to work with. One of the major hurdles was to get the product patented, which is a long process,” explains Alex.
How can PipeSnug be used?
Pipesnug is a cheaper and neater, quick-to-install product, that eliminates the need for pointing mortar, silicone, or expanding foam.
“The products are designed so that any plumber or builder can use it to seal the hole where a pipe exits a wall”
The boiler sealing flue collar, Fluesnug, similarly fits the same size core-drilled hole in the wall as PipeSnug, and it also takes care of any pointing concerns.
“PipeSnug and FlueSnug prevent heat escaping, act as a barrier to drafts, damp, insects and pests and give a great, neat finish as they can be used both inside and outside the property,” continues Alex.
How did you get the word out to the plumbing and heating industry?
”The reaction from the industry was really receptive and we launched PipeSnug through the trade press. PHPI was really supportive and visited us out on site to profile us and look at the product,” explains Alex.
PipeSnug has also been exhibited at trade shows and promoted on social media in order to increase exposure.
“A big moment was when FlueSnug was endorsed by the major boiler manufacturers, including Worcester Bosch and Ideal Heating,” continues Alex.
Will more properties be fitted with Pipesnug as a result of recent Building Regulations changes?
In response to Part L Building Regulations, all service penetrations now need pipe grommets or collars to keep air tightness around pipes in walls.
The market for pipe seals will continue to grow as PipeSnug is the only one that provides an all-in-one solution that meets these criteria.
“PipeSnug and FlueSnug form an airtight seal against the wall where pipes enter and exit a building. So they not only save plumbers time, money and mess, but they also keep warmth in and energy costs down for homeowners,” adds Alex.
What are the current available options?
For solvent-weld waste pipes, PipeSnug is available in 32 and 40mm diameter for welded pipe fittings with a 52mm core drilled hole. The 110mm version fits a 152mm core drilled hole and works with all push-fit and weld soil pipe connections. Standard black, white, or grey are available on the soil and waste versions.
“FlueSnug works for all 100mm boiler flues and fits a 152mm core drilled hole. It is available in black and white,” says Chris.
What is in store for the next five years?
“We have ambitious plans to invest and launch new versions to cover different sizes and applications in the coming months as demand rises due to the changes to Part L. We want PipeSnug to become the de facto method of sealing around service penetrations. We are also looking to expand sales outside the UK as we have international patents,” says Alex.
“We have other products we are working on, all of which are focused on solving problems in the construction and plumbing sector,” adds Chris.
You can read more about how PipeSnug has evolved over time in our interview with PHPI.
