Is metal ductwork better than flex ducts?

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.

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.”

Can you replace metal duct with flexible?

Metal duct can still be found in many older homes, but flexible duct is more prevalent in newer homes. Both work well. Still, should you decide to change from metal to flexible duct, don’t waste money on an HVAC contractor. It’s a time-consuming job, but definitely one you can do yourself.

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.

Are metal ducts bad?

The drawbacks of metal ductwork is that it rusts and it leaks. With new homes the rust isn’t much of a concern however with homes that likewise had a swamp cooler installed with metal ductwork, there’s a high chance of rusting currently taking place in the metal ductwork.

What is the best material for ductwork?





The best flexible air filter duct for commercial buildings in extreme climates are made from silicone, PVC, rubber, and stainless steel. They have an inbuilt resistance to heat and cooling that guarantees long-lasting productivity. Rubber and polyurethane are the best at abrasive resistance.

How long do flex ducts last?

10 to 25 years

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.

Is replacing ductwork worth it?

Yes, and Here’s Why. Ductwork is a vital component of your home’s comfort, air quality, and energy consumption. You should replace old ductwork as soon as possible to maintain the performance of your HVAC.

Is Flexible ducting any good?



Flexible ductwork is made of a thin, pliable material. Not only does this make it less durable than metal, but it also means that flexible ducts are more likely to become damaged in the short term. It’s difficult to install the material without damaging it, as rips and tears can happen very easily.

Does Flex duct reduce airflow?

Since flex duct, by definition, is flexible, it often flexes in ways we don’t want it to. The result is poor airflow and ineffective HVAC systems.

Why is there no flex duct?

1.)
The flex duct commonly used in Southern California relies on a heavy-duty stainless steel spring for its core. Stainless steel, it turns out, is one of many simple commodities that regularly runs out this year. If duct manufacturers can’t get ahold of stainless steel, they can’t make flex duct.

Is metal ductwork insulated?



Metal ducts for residential HVAC systems are typically insulated on the exterior using a “duct wrap,” such as fiberglass blanket insulation with a foil-faced vapor barrier. Duct wrap comes in four-foot-wide rolls 50 to 100 feet long and in R-values that range from R-4 through R-8.

What is the most efficient ductwork?

For instance, round duct is the more efficient shape in terms of material use, resistance to airflow, and air leakage. “The tradeoff is that round duct will not always fit in the space provided. In these cases the duct is converted to rectangular or flat-oval so that it can fit the available space.

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. The sooner you see signs of damage and do something about it, the better.

Should fiberglass ducts be replaced?

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.

When should you consider replacing the duct work in your home?



6 Signs You Need New Ductwork

  • A consistently dusty home. …
  • Inconsistent room temperatures. …
  • Bad install job. …
  • You have a mold issue. …
  • Your home was built before 1977 and has asbestos insulation. …
  • Your HVAC system is too big or too small for your ductwork.

When should I replace my heating ducts?

The ductwork in most homes lasts between 10 and 15 years before problems arise. If your ducts are more than 15 years old, have them replaced before major issues such as pests, gaps, or even collapsed sections of ducts appear.

What can I do with old ductwork?

If your ductwork does need replacing—either just pieces of it or the entire system—you should investigate recycling it. Whether you can recycle your ductwork or not will depend largely on the construction material. Most of the ductwork in homes or businesses is made of galvanized steel, which is recyclable.

Is replacing ductwork easy?



Although replacing ductwork can be done as a DIY project, it is a delicate and extensive project that requires some prior knowledge of how the construction of HVAC systems works.