Should I replace fiberboard ductwork?
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Should I replace fiberboard ductwork?
The problem with old fiberboard duct is that the fiberglass particles come loose and circulate through the house. These particles are inhaled by people in the home (or office), which is hazardous to everyone’s health. When this occurs, the ductwork should either be replaced or reinsulated with safer material.
Why flex duct is bad?
Flexible ductwork not only resists airflow, but is also more susceptible to a poor installation. Any number of factors can go wrong, including a poorly sealed joint, excessive length that lacks support and crumpled sections. Also, the material itself is less durable than sheet metal.
When should you choose to use sheet metal duct work?
The main reason to choose sheet metal ductwork is that it is proven to be effective. If you have a new home or an existing home that needs a good set of ducts, sheet metal ductwork is long-lasting and durable. When installed correctly and properly maintained, you may not need any repairs for a long period of time.
What is the disadvantage of flex duct?
The downside of flex ducting is that it is considered temporary with an acknowledged lifespan of only about 15 years. Another major disadvantage is that they are a little too flexible, so they are often incorrectly installed. And with greater friction than metal ducts, proper sizing is critical.
How long does flexible ductwork last?
What is the functional lifespan of a flexible duct system? A search of industry articles, blogs, and chat rooms indicates it lasts from 10 to 25 years. Most flexible duct manufacturers warranty their products for about 10 years.
How long does fiberglass ductwork last?
Ducts are designed to last for about 10-15 years on average. They are made from a combination of materials such as fiberglass and plastic. At some point, these ducts will get damaged.
When should I replace my flex duct?
“If your ductwork is over 15 years old, you probably should replace it. Ductwork has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years. By 15 years, however, it begins to deteriorate, significantly reducing your HVAC system’s efficiency, so replacement is the prudent option.”
How good is flexible ductwork?
Flexible ductwork can restrict airflow more than metal ducts. Greater airflow means better HVAC system efficiency, but flexible ducts are more susceptible to interference from compression, pinching, and twisting. For a more long-term solution, metal ductwork is a much better choice.
How often should flexible ductwork be replaced?
How much does it cost to replace a flex duct?
The price you pay depends on the material: Flexible Polyester: $1-$4 per linear foot. Flexible Aluminum: $2-$5 per linear foot. Galvanized Steel: $3-$10 per linear foot….New Ductwork Cost Per Square Foot.
| Square Feet | Linear Feet of Ductwork | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 – 2,500 | 150 | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| 2,000 – 3,500 | 250 | $2,500 – $5,000 |
How often should metal ductwork be replaced?
Should I replace my metal ductwork?
What is the difference between flex ducts and metal ducts?
While flex ducts work best for short runs in a trunk-and-branch system, metal duct works best for entire air distribution systems. Metal ductwork needs design, measurement, and installation by or with the help of an HVAC professional.
Should I replace my metal trunk ducts?
Abandoning an old metal trunk duct system when doing additions or remodeling Even though metal ductwork is actually great for airflow and moves air with much less resistance than flex ductwork, if a home had an addition done to it, that ductwork is probably not the best design to help keep the homeowners comfortable.
What are the common problems with flexible ductwork?
Sometimes, flexible ductwork section can become ripped or torn. Ductwork is also subject to damage if anything falls or weight is placed on it. If you notice bent, damaged, or tangled ducts, contact a professional right away.
Are flex ducts good for heating and cooling?
Flex ducts are better for existing trunk-and-branch heating and cooling systems. This is because they’re more versatile and flexible. Metal ducts are more rigid due to the nature of steel, making them ideal to build an entire HVAC system. Installation.