When Pointy Plumber faced a boiler swap in a tight spot, FS5 and PipeSnug helped him deliver a quick, clean and Part L compliant finish without the usual mortar mess.
Known for his no-nonsense installs and hands-on product reviews, Pointy Plumber has built a reputation online for finding solutions that really make a difference on site. So, when he recently faced a tricky combi boiler replacement, he put Talon’s FS5 and PipeSnug to the test.
The property’s rear extension and boundary fence boxed in the flue exit, leaving little room to manoeuvre. Traditional methods like mortar or silicone would have meant mess, delays and frustration. On top of that, the boiler’s condensate pipe also needed upgrading.
Talon’s FlueSnug 5″ (FS5) is designed specifically for boiler replacements, eliminating the need for awkward patching or extra drilling. Where mortar often cracks, stains or crumbles over time, FS5 provides a neat, consistent finish that meets Part L of the Building Regulations without any of the hassle. It works with all 100mm boiler flues, fitting directly into a 152mm core-drilled hole and tackles the long-standing issue of aligning the new flue with the existing core when undertaking a boiler swap.
By slotting directly into the existing core hole, FS5 removes the need for expanding foam, silicone or mortar altogether. It maintains the integrity of the building fabric, reduces thermal bridging and ensures a compliant seal, all while saving valuable time on site.
“Let’s be honest, even if you do a neat job with cement, it still looks like cement,” says Pointy. “FS5 gives a sharp, consistent finish every time.”
The job also called for a condensate upgrade, where PipeSnug proved equally useful. Designed for 32mm waste pipes, its quick-fit collar delivered a sealed, professional finish in seconds.
“The 32mm PipeSnug was perfect for the new condensate outlet,” says Pointy. “I cored it fresh and fitted it in seconds. Done. Looks neat, seals properly, no mess to clean up.”
As with FS5, PipeSnug is fully Part L compliant, sealing penetrations to prevent air leakage and heat loss. For installers, that means meeting regulations without slowing down or adding extra steps.
For Pointy, the biggest win was the combination of speed and professionalism. Despite the tight access, both the flue and condensate outlet were installed cleanly and efficiently, with no mess left behind.
“You’re working harder for a worse result if you’re still cementing flues,” he explains. “FS5 and PipeSnug just make sense. They’re faster, cleaner and help your work stand out – in a good way.”
Installation tips
Step 1: Drill a 152mm hole or use a previously drilled hole to receive the FS5 and flue. It is designed to sit snugly in the existing 5″ hole left by the original boiler flue so there is no need for additional drilling or widening.
Step 2: FlueSnug comes in black or white and can be used inside and out – just push it in. The integrated fins on the FS5 help guide and grip the fitting into place, ensuring a tight and stable fix. It takes seconds and once it is secure you can pull the flue through.
Step 3: Fit the horizontal flue. No making good or pointing is required. Should there be a need to inspect or reposition the flue, the FS5 is easily removed without damaging the surrounding brickwork. This flexibility is especially important in retrofit situations or when boiler replacements don’t align perfectly with old flue angles.
Step 4: FlueSnug gives a neat finish and efficiently seals the hole in the wall. No unsightly silicone or cracked mortar, just a flush seal that satisfies both client and compliance officer.
