Thanks. I think I'll be doing number 3 -- using fiberglass insulation and
skipping the paint idea.

"Mikepier" wrote in message
...

1) Would painting them help preserve them by keeping them from rusting or
corroding?

Painting would help, but it really takes a lot of corrosion to do
damage to those pipes. They are steel with cast iron fittings.

2) What type of paint should I use?

Oil base paint is ideal, but it will stink up your house for a few
days when the pipes get hot. The smell will eventally go away. But you
could use regular latex as well. I used it before with no problems

3) What kind of insulation should I put on them?

Use the fiberglass type insulation like these
http://www.energysolutionscenter.org...ulation_FG.jpg
If you use them, I would not bother to paint the pipe.