Cost of boxing in pipes in 2023

Our central heating systems are vital to keeping our homes warm and free of damp and mould, but they come with a lot of pipework. Luckily, you can box in pipes to hide them from view to keep your home looking neat and tidy.

But what’s the cost of boxing in pipes, and how much does it cost to box in your boiler too? We’ll go through it all in our guide.

How much does it cost to box in pipes?

Generally, the cost of boxing in pipes and boilers in the UK can range from £200 to £500 or more, depending on how many metres of pipework you want to box in. Here are the ballpark costs to expect:

Job / item	Average cost
Pipe boxing – materials only	£25-35 per metre
Carpenter hourly rate	£16-£40

Boiler cupboard cost

You may also want to box in your boiler, especially if it’s in a kitchen or bedroom. You can ask a carpenter to modify a kitchen cabinet or build you a custom boiler cupboard to conceal it – the choice is yours. Here are the average material costs for a boiler cupboard:

Job / item	Average cost
Modified kitchen cabinet for boiler – materials only	£60-£120
Custom-built boiler cupboard – materials only	£90-£180

The cost of boxing in pipes or fitting a boiler cupboard varies depending on your location. In major cities and the south east, carpenters tend to charge more than in other parts of the country.

To help you estimate the average cost, HaMuch has a vast database of hourly and daily rates for carpenters across the UK. We have compiled this data into a table that provides an overview of the typical costs of boxing in pipes in nearly every town and city in the country. You can find this table further down the page to get a better idea of the carpenters’ rates in your area.

What affects the cost of boxing in pipes?

The materials used

One of the biggest factors that can influence the cost of boxing in pipes and boilers is the type of materials used. There are a variety of materials that can be used for this purpose, including MDF, plywood, and plasterboard:

MDF: MDF is a popular choice because it is affordable and easy to work with.

Plywood: Plywood is another common material used for boxing in pipes and boilers, and it can be more expensive than MDF but is generally considered to be more durable.

Plasterboard: Plasterboard is another option, and it can be a good choice if you are looking for a more seamless finish. However, it can be more difficult to work with and may require the services of a professional plasterer.

Size of the area you want boxed in

Another factor that can impact the cost of boxing in pipes and boilers is the size of the area to be covered. If you have a small area to be covered, such as a single boiler, then the cost will be lower than if you’re boxing in a large area that includes multiple pipes and boilers.

The complexity of the project can also influence the cost, as more complex designs and configurations will require more materials and labour to complete.

Additional work

As well as the cost of materials and labour, there may be additional costs associated with boxing in pipes and boilers. For example, if you need to move pipework or relocate your boiler, then this will add to the cost of the project.

Similarly, if you need to install new fixtures or fittings, such as radiator covers or new kitchen cabinets, then this can also increase the overall cost.

Where you live

Your location is a significant factor in determining the cost of hiring a carpenter to box in your pipes and boiler. Generally, carpenters charge higher rates in major cities due to the higher cost of living, while those working in remote areas tend to charge less.

To get a better understanding of the labour costs in your region, take a look at our table below, which provides a more accurate estimate of the average rates that carpenters charge in almost all towns and cities.

Box in pipe video

Should you leave an air gap when boxing in a boiler?

Yes, you should leave an air gap when boxing in a boiler. Boilers need a good supply of air to work efficiently and safely, so you should never completely box in your boiler without providing ventilation. The easiest way to do this is to leave an air gap at the bottom and top of the boiler cupboard or enclosure.

The size of the air gap will depend on the size of your boiler and the manufacturer's guidelines. A good rule of thumb is to leave a gap of around 50mm at the top and bottom of the cupboard. You can cover the gap with a vent or grille, which will allow air to flow freely while keeping the boiler hidden from view.

Is it easy to box in pipes?

Boxing in pipes is a relatively simple job that you can do yourself if you have basic DIY skills. However, if you’re unsure, you should consider hiring a professional. Carpenters with experience in boxing in pipes should be able to complete the job quickly and effectively.

When boxing in pipes, you’ll need to measure and cut the materials to size, before attaching them to the wall. You may need to work around tricky angles or corners, which can make the job a little more challenging. That’s why we always recommend hiring a carpenter to do the work for you to make sure you get a neat finish.

If you’re ready to get quotes from local carpenters, post your job on HaMuch. We’ll put you in touch with reliable tradespeople that are available to box in your pipes or boiler and give you a great finish for your home.

Estimates for common carpenter & joiner jobs;

Rates for other trades